Where to Eat in Appledore: Four Pubs and a Quay

Short answer: For a village this size the food is remarkable. The Royal George is the most accomplished cooking, Jack Sprats does fish landed locally, and the Seagate opens at eight with a Sunday roast for two on a board.

The best meal

The Royal George on Irsha Street, right by the shore. The most accomplished cooking in the village — fish on the board, and a room small enough that booking matters.

For fish

Jack Sprats on Market Street is a small newer bistro doing fish landed locally with a varied specials board and good gluten-free options. Evenings only on some days, so check.

The pubs

• The Seagate — on the quay, open from eight in the morning. The Sunday roast for two arrives on a board that defeats most people.
• The Beaver Inn — overlooking the estuary, specials heavy on seafood, and a genuinely good vegan and vegetarian roast.
• The Crab and Apple on New Quay Street — a proper local with darts, pool and a snug. Drinks rather than dinner; bring your own food in.

Across the water

The Boathouse at Instow is the best-loved pub in the area — mussels rated the best in north Devon, lobster, good cocktails and the best sunset seat around. Ask for a table facing the beach and book for evenings.

With a dog

The Seagate, the Beaver Inn, the Crab and Apple and the Boathouse all welcome dogs. The Royal George and Jack Sprats are not listed as dog friendly — plan those for an evening when the dog can stay behind.

Practical

Park at the top of the village and walk down — the streets are too narrow to drive comfortably. And ring ahead about steps: old fishing-village buildings rarely have level entrances.

Small Devon restaurants have small dining rooms. Book at weekends and always for Sunday lunch, and ring rather than relying on a booking form out of season.