Address: Fore Street, Port Isaac, Cornwall PL29 3RD.

Telephone: 01208 880721.

Email: oldsch.hotel@eclipse.co.uk.

First impressions: Built in 1875, it retains its Victorian charm and unique architectural features despite being modernised into a stylish hotel. It overlooks the harbour where boats bringing in their catch still supply the village's thriving lobster and crab trade. Inside, the decor is beach themed; lots of blues and white with nautical artefacts. The paintings in the restaurant are by local artists.

What are the rooms like? Bright, large and comfortable, each with a sitting area for guests to enjoy views of the sea, rugged cliffs and seagulls flying past. Room 11, our favourite, is decorated in a soft yellow, with fairy lights, a muslin-canopied bed and a sparkly chandelier.

The bed test: Beautifully made up with a mountain of pillows and cushions. The soft duvets are perfect for curling up in after a blustery coastal walk.

The bathroom test: Most rooms are ensuite. Ours had a freestanding bath, surrounded by plants and candles.

The restaurant: Seafood dominates the menu, and the head chef has recently added some twists to his repertoire after a recent trip to Thailand. Look out for monkfish Thai curry with mango and ginger, or swordfish steak served with lime salsa. Starters from £5.50; mains £13-£20.

What is there to do nearby? Stroll down to the harbour and watch the lobster catchers at work, or visit the pottery in the old chapel nearby. There are a number of quayside pubs, too. Tintagel with its Arthurian connection is 12 miles away, and the Camel valley is ideal cycling territory.

How much a night? £60-£80pp.