Short answer: The Seagate on the quay opens at eight, has good outdoor space facing the water, and does a Sunday roast for two on a board that defeats most people. The Beaver Inn overlooks the estuary. The quay itself is the play area.
A word on expectations. Devon pubs rarely have playgrounds — old buildings, small sites. What most have is a garden, a beach or a park nearby. Where a pub genuinely has a play area, it says so below.
The pub on the quay, open from eight in the morning, with good outdoor space facing the water. The Sunday roast for two is served on a board that defeats most people. Lunch service tends to be better than evening.
A traditional pub overlooking the estuary with a specials board heavy on seafood and a genuinely good vegan and vegetarian roast.
The Boathouse at Instow, with the sandy beach right there for the children. A short drive or a seasonal ferry hop.
The Royal George and Jack Sprats are the best dinners in the village — better for an adult evening. The Crab and Apple is a drinks-only local.
The quay, the boats and the water. Instow's beach across the estuary. The Big Sheep is ten minutes away for a proper family day.
Book if you are more than four, and always for Sunday lunch.
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