We are preparing a magazine feature entitled the Top Ten Inns With Yacht Moorings and are seeking nominations from our readers as to who should be included.
A definite contender for the list is The Cary Arms in Babbacombe Devon. This inn on the beach gets a 5 star rating from both the AA and Visit Britain and it is easy to see why.
We stayed recently, arriving in style sailing aboard Level 8, an Italian built high speed charter yacht available through Triple Seven Charters. At just under 24 metres this Italian customised yacht is one of just two Navalia 80s ever built. Originally fitted with water jets, the boat is now powered using surface drive propellors which throw up a stunning rooster tail at speed.
Built in the late 1800’s, The Cary Arms offered accommodation from 1930 -1960, after which the owner’s took residence and the building served only as a pub. Between 2006 and Easter 2009 the pub was closed while Lana de Savary, wife of superyacht owner Peter de Savary, managed a complete renovation and refurbishment. The original features have been restored including the bar and furniture and the sea facing terraces beautifully planted with shrubs and flowers.
With all the personality, fun and values of a good English pub and the luxury and style of a boutique hotel, it offers the best of traditional gastro pub food and real ales.
Managed by Felicia Crossby the inn we arrived at is not only a chic retreat for couples – it also provides a wonderful seaside break for families. Children are very welcome and will even receive their own fishing net and bait, while dogs will feel right at home with a personalised bed and bowl.
The New England style rooms feature stunning sea views, luxurious en-suite bathrooms and private sea facing terraces. Guests who wish to be pampered can relax in a small but perfectly formed Spa treatment room enjoying a delightful Elemis Spa
Four delightful self catering fishermen’s cottages complete the accommodation portfolio.
Set inside the sheltered Babbacombe Bay, it is a perfect spot for yachts cruising in the west of England. The thoughtful de Savarys being boat owners themselves, have installed six yacht moorings that each can handle yachts up to four 40 feet yachts rafted up onto each buoy in calm weather. £10 of the Mooring fee is refunded to those choosing to eat at the pub.
Once made fast, crew can tender into the breakwater and disembark onto the steps or draw their tenders onto the shore. For yachts without a tender a wooden clinker built boat can be hailed to shuttle yachtsmen to shore.
Daily changing menus reflect coast and country in equal measure. Expect superb Devon beef, Lyme Bay lobster, line caught seafood and local ales from Otter and Bays.
So that is our first nomination for the best of Pubs with Moorings. What is yours?