Bendene Townhouse - Exeter

This characterful 1720s coaching inn has a surprisingly contemporary interior, which is matched by its understated bedrooms. Take your seat in either the intimate dining room or in the airy, glass-covered historic courtyard – the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon. In the evening, choose between a tasting menu and a seasonally themed à la carte, where the colourful modern dishes are well-judged and nicely balanced. Be sure to pick up some goodies from their deli and wet fish shop on your way out.

In the older part of this delightful town, not far from the River Exe, you'll find this cosy, rustic bistro that comes with a cheery atmosphere. Seafood from the southwest coastline is the primary focus of the fixed-price menu, sometimes paired with punchy accompaniments and global influences. Examples could include the likes of tiger prawn wontons with crispy leeks or Cornish octopus with salsa verde, potato rosti and picked shallots. If you aren’t a local, this taste of the region will make you wish you were one.