Short answer: The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island is a 14th-century pub reached by walking the sand or taking the sea tractor — children love the crossing. Venus Cafe in the lower car park has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
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.
A 14th-century pub on Burgh Island itself, with a quirky interior and a garden watching the sea tractor come and go. Getting there is the adventure — walk across at low tide or ride the sea tractor. Outdoor drinks come in branded plastic with a £2 deposit.
The beach café in the lower car park, with sea views, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a varied menu. A beach café rather than a restaurant, and service slows when busy.
Next door to the holiday park, with a beach-front position. Reviews are polarised — the grills and steaks come out best.
The beach — wide, flat and sandy with a shallow incline and lifeguards. The sea tractor ride. The rock pools.
If the Pilchard is the plan, know when the tide turns. A family stranded on the island is a long wait.
Book if you are more than four, and always for Sunday lunch.
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