Our Inspector's view

Not nearly as alarming as it sounds, Hell Bay is actually an idyllic secluded cove embraced by benign gorse-laden hillocks. Reached by ferry from St Mary's or Tresco, tiny Bryher is small enough to get around on foot, and the unassuming white hotel is the perfect spot to set off from. There is much to love in its Cornish art-filled rooms and sea views, while on the food front Richard Kearsley's assured, confident cooking is a major draw. You’re in the right place when it comes to fish and seafood, whether it’s treacle-cured salmon with lemongrass and ginger purée, compressed watermelon and toasted sesame, or mains like roasted fillet of wild sea bass with confit fennel, saffron velouté and brown shrimps. There are thoroughbred meats too, with slow-braised blade of local Tresco beef, soft truffle polenta, crispy onion and red wine jus, while for dessert maybe plump for the passionfruit soufflé with coconut sorbet.

Awards, accolades and Welcome Schemes

3 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence