The Burgh Island hotel near Bigbury-on-Sea, in Devon, England.
Finnbarr Webster—Getty Images

This picturesque coastal region of southwest England is known more for its heritage coastline and rugged landscapes than food and drink, but that’s changing. In June, Sandridge Barton, home of Sharpham Wine, opened its visitor center and winery, where guests can learn about (and sample) the vineyard’s offerings, taste cheeses from the dairy, and buy gifts to take home. Or book a table at Circa, a new restaurant on the property.

If beer is your tipple of choice, Salcombe Brewery’s much missed tours relaunched in April; its Pilsner, Session Lager, and small-batch Belgian Pale Ale all won awards earlier this year. Epicures will also love Andria, a restaurant in the estuarine town of Dartmouth, freshly added to the Michelin Guide in February.

For the first time in nearly half a century, rail service has resumed on the historic Dartmoor Line, connecting the cathedral city of Exeter to Dartmoor National Park. Across the Bristol Channel, the Lundy Marine Festival will commemorate the island’s designated marine-protected area as it turns 50, with activities like guided dives to famous shipwrecks off the island’s rocky bluffs. Attendees who gather data on local sea life can unlock cheaper ferry travel and free camping accommodation.

And for part of its multimillion-pound renovation, the iconic Burgh Island Hotel is building 27 affordable rooms solely for employees.

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