The Pilchard Inn, Devon: 14th Century Gem
The ancient Pilchard Inn, situated on the beautiful South Devon coast, dates back to 1336.
Over the golden sandy causeway, you’ll discover The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island, an island pub with seven hundred years of history.
The traditional coastal inn, one of the oldest in England, is an old smuggler’s haunt with low ceilings, open fires and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.
It was recently recognised by the Daily Mail as one of the cosiest pubs in Britain - and it’s clear to see why.
According to their website, its history goes dates back to 1336 - and some original features remain.
There’s also plenty of outdoor seating for alfresco drinks and dining with a truly magnificent view towards Burgh Island at Bigbury-on-Sea.
The cosy, wood-beamed interior oozes history and atmosphere at every stone-flagged turn.
There are few places better than The Pilchard Inn to sit and watch the tides ebb and flow while relaxing with a pint.
Someone who recently visited the lovely pub, said: “A wonderful pub in a time warp setting.
”The pub looks as though you could go back 50 years and it would be exactly the same it’s perfect please don’t change a thing. The setting is breathtaking with views across the sea and estuary for miles.”
According to their website, the pub is open everyday from 11am.
It’s situated on the beautiful Burgh Island.
Burgh Island is an iconic South Devon landmark, located directly opposite Bigbury on Sea Beach.
The island is accessible at low tide by a strip of sand which at high tide is completely covered, leaving a ride on the unique sea tractor as the only means of access.
As well as the sea tractor the island is famed for its links to Agatha Christie, the art-deco inspired hotel and as well as a one time haunt for pirates and smugglers.
The tidal passageway that separates the mainland from Burgh Island is a beautiful sandy beach which is ideal for lazy beach days and sand castle building whilst you admire views of the island.
A walk around the island will let you explore the remains of the chapel or discover an abundance of wildlife that lives on its shores.
Burgh Island sits just off the South West Coast Path and many hours can be spent wandering along the stunning coastline looking out to sea and back towards the Island.
The Burgh Island Hotel
The infamous art-deco inspired Burgh Island Hotel sits on the island, this island retreat has housed some very famous guests, including Agatha Christie.
Although under different names Burgh Island featured in two of her most well known novels; "And Then There Were None" and "Evil Under The Sun".
The hotel is open to non-residents for black tie evening meals and Sunday lunch.
The early history of Burgh Island is somewhat unknown however the remains of a chapel sit on the Island known as Huer’s Hut.
Originally it is thought that the chapel was where fishermen would keep a watch for shoals of pilchard. When spotted the fishermen would make a ‘cry’ to alert other local fishermen of Bigbury.
Check out more photos of the beautiful pub below:
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