Ali Roff relaxes in this cosy pub that faces the pebble beach of Dunwich…

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?

This friendly pub hotel in the ‘Lost Village’ of Dunwich in Suffolk has a cosy, sleepy atmosphere for anyone looking to get away from it all. It’s real USP is the silence; you won’t hear anything but the crashing of waves for miles. Despite its sleepy nature, Dunwich has a whole host of offerings, from its lovely little museum dedicated to the story of how most of the village, and its rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, has been lost to the sea. They say you can still hear the bells of the many lost churches toll underneath the waves. Then there’s the secluded beach of course, perfect for a morning stroll, run, or dip! And an interesting walk during which you can spot a lonely grave on the cliff edge belonging to the last of the churches to fall into the sea, as well as magnificent 13th-century friary ruins, and a lovely ‘Inn to Inn’ walk from The Ship to sister inn, The Westleton Crown.

ECO-CREDENTIALS?

The Ship at Dunwich is beginning its journey towards an eco-friendly status – it has ditched plastic sachets of sauces for refillable ramekins and staff are conscious about taking further steps.

WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE?

Cosy and light with magnificently comfortable beds and the crispest of sheets. There’s a sweet little bottle of sloe gin for a bedside tipple, and the showers are modern, with great pressure, perfect for washing the salt off and warming up after your pre-breakfast swim.

BEST SEA VIEW?

The rooms at the front of the pub face the sea – it’s a short walk to the beautiful pebble beach (take a stroll before dinner as the sun goes down to build your appetite – you might be lucky enough to catch a stunning violet- sky sunset). From these rooms, you’ll see the sea in the distance, but you’ll hear the waves as you fall asleep – the lack of traffic in and near the village delivers the beautifully rare gift of silence.

HOW ABOUT THE FOOD?

With huge breakfasts and a range of options from porridge to the full works and everything in between, you won’t be left unsatisfied. The mackerel paté and homemade soups for lunch stand out, and I have to say, the fish and chips for supper were some of the best I’ve ever tasted. An absolute must though, vegan or not, is the vegan chocolate brownie – an utter game changer!

WHAT WILL IT COST?

Low winter rates start at £105 per room B&B.

HOW DO I BOOK?

Call 01728 648219 or online at shipatdunwich.co.uk.

Check out more coastal guides and places to stay by the sea here