In a peaceful corner of North Devon, hidden behind a cluster of hills, sits the little fishing village of Instow – an idyllic and well-preserved seaside spot that I have been visiting with my family since I was a little girl.

As long as I can remember, we’ve taken up residence at Bath House with its beautiful sea-green shutters and stunning views – of sand, sea, Appledore and sky stretched out before you. The house has been modernised over the years, but it still retains a nostalgic beach house charm with its many marine paintings, large collection of antiques and old chain-pull loo!

I still get a little thrill when we first arrive at the house, knowing that a week or two of cream teas in the garden, lazing on the beach and rock pooling lies ahead! Each day starts with a walk along the promenade to the local grocery store ‘Johns’ to buy warm pain-au-chocolats for breakfast and a basketful of delicious deli-goods for that day’s picnic!

Whether relaxing on the beach, fishing for shrimp in the sand pools, finding a secluded spot in the dunes to eat your ‘Hockings’ clotted cream 99 in peace, or sipping a cool drink beneath the thatched pavilion of the ancient cricket club after a hard day on the beach; you are very welcome to my little spot of home-grown paradise.

Text supplied by surface print designer, Harriet Curtis

Photos courtesy of Travels with a dog and a camera on Flickr