For a trip back to a more glamorous age, board the sea tractor and cross the sands to this Art Deco hotel on a tidal island where walks, beaches and good food await. You might take a dip in the sea-bathing Mermaid Pool, play tennis or croquet, or simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere. In September 2024, £5.4 million in funding was agreed to enhance the facilities and décor and to help to preserve the collection of Art Deco antiques that are so much a part of the fun. Even cosy double rooms have perfect period details, bespoke toiletries and Devon fudge. There are grand balcony luxe doubles and suites (Josephine Baker has a shared sundeck) while the dog-friendly Artist’s Studio is above the ancient Pilchard Inn. Agatha Christie's beach house, where she wrote of murder most foul, sleeps four. Enjoy black-tie dining and dancing in the Grand Ballroom or eat à la carte in the Nettlefold where seafood is a speciality (crab cakes, lobster Thermidor). Even if you're not staying, you can book a trip on the sea tractor and head to the island for afternoon tea.