Burgh Island

CUT OFF FROM THE MAINLAND (forget mobile phones and unwelcome interruptions here), Burgh Island is an Art Deco haven surrounded by the seas. Think flappers in cloche hats, cads with monocles and pencil moustaches or even Baywatch with dress sense, and you are halfway there.

Noël Coward adored this great romantic getaway and Agatha Christie used it as a setting for several scenes of sin and seduction in her novels.

Rippingly good Martinis

Classic tradition with a contemporary twist marks out dinner in the wonderfully deco dining room, while chef Conor Heneghan blends South Sea spices with catch of the day in The Pilchard Inn, just down the road. On Valentine’s Day, don black tie and pearls and dine on innuendo-laden dishes, after a rippingly good Martini. Learn to Charleston and tango, or climb the hill and watch for dolphins.

Edward came here with Mrs Simpson but we can’t say who stayed with Noël Coward, Gertrude Lawrence or glamorous aviatrix Amy Johnson. Today's guests can discover the potential of South Devon’s biggest bed and private garden of the Garden suite, the bold deco fabrics and mirrored bathroom of Odeon or the cosy slipper bath of Shrimp – the hotel's snuggest room.

© Room for Romance