Somewhere to stay: The Elmfield, Ilfracombe

What's the buzz?

A fun and funky, family-friendly Victorian villa in an acre of garden in this North Devon seaside town. Zoe and Matt Brewer have transformed the hotel over the past couple of years into a comfortable home from home.

Any luxurious touches?

Guests are really looked after and, when you've got kids, that's luxury in itself. Take a swim in the pool, where there's a Jacuzzi and sauna, have a massage or watch a movie on the lounge cine-screen. For frazzled parents, there's babysitting on offer, plus lots of children's activities. No need to check out until midday either - bliss.

Best sea view?

The top floor offers the best views, but you can spy the sea through the mature trees from most rooms.

What are the rooms like?

Think comfy four-posters, colourful furnishings and local art, all with flat-screen TVs, DVD and CD players. We stayed in the family suite - two interlinking rooms with their own shower rooms.

Any products in the bathroom?

Lovely REN goodies are there for you to indulge in.

How about the food?

Head chef Tom Frost specialises in the freshest Devon fare in the hotel restaurant (also open to non-residents). We devoured artichoke velouté, local fillet steak and green beans, followed by apple jelly with cinnamon cream, and West Country cheeses.

What will it cost me?

Double B&B from £80.

Torrs Park, Ilfracombe, North Devon (01271 863377, www.theelmfield.com).