In the first in our new series in which readers make nostalgic returns to favourite hotels, we look at a boutique gem tucked away on the south Devon coast

WHERE: The Cary Arms, Babbacombe, Devon

THEN: I visited with my late husband, Ronald, in March 1951 for our honeymoon. We had the most wonderful stay.
The weather was lovely and it was just so quiet being tucked away on the south Devon coast.
I remember the drive down to the hotel was so steep that some taxis would not go down it.

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NOW: The hotel had been rebuilt so it looked a little different but my stay was equally fabulous.
The bedrooms were large and luxurious, with sophisticated furnishings in a nautical theme and a bed that would have been big enough for six! My room had a veranda with table and chairs and views out to sea.

The food was fantastic. I was amazed at the menu, which was different every night. I mostly ate seafood, which was always cooked to perfection. There was a log burner in the dining room so it was very comfortable.

You could still sit out in the gardens or go for a walk along the harbour and watch the fishermen on the pier. It would be fair to say that life here hasn't changed that much, although there is now a little railway that takes you up the steep hill from the beach to the village.

INFORMATION: The Cary Arms (01803 327 110/caryarms.co.uk) offers doubles from £150 per night (two sharing), B&B.