Superb meal at The Oyster Shack

It's always a treat to visit The Oyster Shack, one of south Devon's best fish restaurants. The decor is quirky, the feel is laid back, the food is excellent. Even getting there is fun. When the tide is out you can take the tidal road which shaves a chunk of time off the drive there and offers fab views of the Avon estuary.

30 years ago the building was actually an oyster farm and people would rock up with their own deckchairs and feast on fresh oysters and wine al fresco. The place has retained that rustic feel and oysters are obviously a key part of the menu. Whole crab or lobster, scallops, prawns and a numbers of catch of the day specials also feature. When we visited these were hake, gurnard and lemon sole - fantastic stuff. The wood burner was smoldering, fairy lights abounded, such a warm and fuzzy vibe on a winters evening.

The wine list is excellent and the place attracts a mix of locals and tourists. Booking ahead is essential. The bonus is that it is located within minutes of Bigbury on sea. This is a fantastic sandy beach with views to die for of Bigbury Island and westward of the south Devon coastline towards Cornwall. Wander across the beach to the island and check out The Pilchard Inn and climb the hill for the best views. There is a great little loop taking in a section of the south west coastal path and some beautiful inland bridleways.