Sitting pretty on the stunning South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies Salcombe. A charming coastal gem on the English Riviera that consistently draws tourists year after year, Salcombe boasts a picture perfect location, quaint charm and a sheltered estuary framed by rolling green hills.
Salcombe is also famous for its golden sand beaches like North and South Sands, offering lots of opportunities for family fun and idyllic seaside charm. Local shops and independent boutiques also line the streets, offering a refreshing alternative to generic chains and providing a unique and charming shopping opportunity during your visit to Salcombe. Amidst the shops, you’ll also find lots of Salcombe pubs offering locally sourced menus to tempt you in.
Salcombe Pub
Salcombe Pubs
No seaside escape is complete without indulging in the local fare, and with a range of wonderful cafes, pubs, bakeries and more, Salcombe doesn’t disappoint. Soak up the morning atmosphere with a steaming cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast. Choose between a hearty full English breakfast with all the trimmings or a more continental croissant and a coffee. For a lighter bite, a classic toasted sandwich with local cheese and chutney is a simple yet deliciously satisfying breakfast.
As you stroll along the coast, your trip wouldn’t be complete without indulging in an ice cream. Luckily, Salcombe boasts several ice cream parlours churning out delicious homemade flavours. Choose from classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate, or more adventurous creations using locally sourced ingredients. Another gem of the Salcombe restaurants is local seafood. From succulent crab and lobster to plump mussels and locally caught fish, the Salcombe pub menus are a seafood lover’s paradise. Many pubs offer classic dishes like traditional fish and chips or creamy seafood chowder, perfect for a comforting and delicious meal. The local pubs also offer hearty, traditional pub fare like steak and ale pie or bangers and mash, offering something quintessentially British and comforting.
The Pilchard Inn
Just a short distance away from Salcombe’s bustling harbour lies a true gem – The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island. This historic pub near Salcombe isn’t your average watering hole; it’s an experience steeped in history and breathtaking scenery, tucked away on a secluded island paradise.
As you enter this cosy island pub, you’ll sink into a comfy chair, admiring the striking coastal views and taking in the scenes of one of England’s oldest pubs. The Pilchard Inn’s incredible history dates all the way back to 1336 and has been a treasured gem on Burgh Island ever since. Steeped in tradition, The Pilchard Inn has served countless patrons over the centuries, from thirsty fishermen to Burgh Island celebrities and rugged, adventurous travellers. Offering a cosy seat, a traditional ale and gorgeous coastal views, The Pilchard Inn is certainly more than just a glimpse into the past. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the beauty of the present moment. Enjoy your favorite drinks and fresh, seasonal food while the ever-changing panorama unfolds before you. Watch the tides ebb and flow, their rhythmic dance a constant reminder of the power of nature. Breathe in the fresh sea air and savour the stunning landscapes that surround this unique pub.
The Pilchard Inn’s charm is furthered by the wood-beamed interior. Every stone-flagged turn whispers stories of the past, creating a truly unique ambience. As for the menu, enjoy snacks like Welsh Rarebit, Chicken Liver Parfait or fresh Crispy Pilchards paired with a lemon and dill mayo. For something a little more substantial, dig into a delicious Cider Battered Haddock, fresh Sea Bream on the Bone, or a truly indulgent Burgh Island Burger made with a beef & bone marrow patty. The dessert menu includes warming and comforting choices like a traditional Sticky Toffee Pudding, Tonka Bean Crème Brulee, or finish with a selection of local Southwest cheeses.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxed coastal hideaway with a warm Devon welcome, a chance to savour delicious food and drinks with incredible views, or simply a place to soak up history and breathtaking scenery, The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island ticks all the boxes. Truly one of the most unique Salcombe pubs, this island gem offers great local food and drinks, unique views and a charm like no other.
Stay with us
Your exploration of The Pilchard Inn will naturally lead you to Burgh Island itself. This tidal island, accessible by foot when the tide is low and by sea tractor when the tide is high, offers a unique opportunity to truly escape the every day and experience something magical.
Like The Pilchard Inn, Burgh Island boasts a fascinating past. Once a popular party island for celebrities, it attracted the likes of Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, as well as The Beatles. Agatha Christie, the Queen of Crime fiction, was also a frequent visitor, even using Burgh Island as inspiration for her novels “And Then There Were None” and “Evil Under the Sun.” However, Burgh Island’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Burgh Island Hotel. This magnificent Art Deco wonder is a chance to step back in time to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication and indulge in pure luxury.
If you choose to embark on a stay at the captivating Burgh Island, the hotel boasts 25 uniquely decorated suites and rooms, ensuring there’s a perfect stay for every guest. Whether you seek a cosy retreat or a grand suite with stunning sea views, each room promises an unforgettable experience with unique furnishings and Art Deco finishes. Beyond the luxurious accommodations, Burgh Island offers a variety of amenities to make your stay truly special. Relax on the expansive croquet lawn, a quintessentially English pastime. The hotel’s coastal location guarantees breathtaking views wherever you turn, and the opportunity to sink your toes into the golden sands of the gorgeous secluded beach, a perfect spot for tranquillity and soaking up the sun.
Alternatively, head to the Palm Court Lounge to sip on handcrafted cocktails while gazing out at the ever-changing seascape. The hotel also boasts the Grand Ballroom, which hosts regular events and is what makes Burgh Island a truly unique escape.