Jamaica Inn.
Bolventor, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall.
Possibly the world's most famous inn, the Jamaica Inn featured in Daphne du Maurier's novel of the same name. The use by smugglers may be true or may be apocryphal but what is sure is that the inn has stood on this bleak spot in the middle of Bodmin Moor for over 200 years. Once a coaching inn on the main route through Cornwall, today it welcomes visitors pausing on their holiday journey.
The bar and restaurant are filled with all the character that one would expect of such a historic venue. Food is served all day, with the menu evolving as the day progresses. Whether it's just a light snack at lunchtime or a full dinner in the evening, dishes are intricately prepared by an excellent kitchen team. They take pride in a menu that features seasonal and local produce wherever possible. In the bar there is a carefully chosen selection of wines, craft beers, cocktails, fine spirits, barista coffee and premium teas.
Accommodation is either in the original building or a modern annex which has been carefully designed to blend the new seamlessly with the old. The deluxe suites are massive, while those on a budget can choose the smaller classic rooms. In between, the Superior rooms are a balance of luxury and price. All rooms offer high speed wifi, H2K of Harrogate botanicals, hairdryer, smart TV, premium teas and coffee with biscuits in room.
There are some things at Jamaica Inn that you won't find anywhere else. There is the Smuggling Museum which tells the tale of the heyday of Cornish smuggling in the 18th century and the Daphne du Maurier Museum to celebrate the lady who wrote not just Jamaica Inn but many other books featuring Cornwall. The inn has ghosts too (allegedly!) so once a month in spring and autumn guests can join in a 'ghost hunt' guided by the hotel's own paranormal team.