Hotel Review: The Atlantic, Isles of Scilly

A brilliant base for exploring the diversity of island life, The Atlantic sits at the heart of the bustling Hugh Town on St Mary's with spectacular harbourside views and close proximately to the quay. From here, you can visit the off-islands, along with day trips including wildlife safaris, shark spotting and seal spotting. Close by is a host of traditional pubs, restaurants, shops, galleries and artist's studios, as well as a sandy tidal beach, working harbour and a fascinating museum.

By plane: Skybus flights to St Mary's from Newquay (30 minutes), Exeter (1 hour) or Lands End (15 minutes). The hotel is a 5-minute drive from the airport. Book the Skybus.

By boat: the Scillionian III Passenger Ferry departs from Penzance (2 hours 45 minutes). The hotel is a 5-minute walk from the terminal.

Characteristic of Hugh Town's historical architecture, The Atlantic is housed in a striking granite, maritime-style building that was formerly three separate cottages. Subsequently converted into a hotel, it opened in 1801. The vibe is informal yet comfortable, a cosy bolthole that makes the most of its harbourside position boasting sea views from every perspective. There are crooked, angular rooms and heritage features including the original granite walls and an inglenook fireplace, along with an ancient boat mast that runs the length of the pub's ceiling.

Honing in on its waterfront position, The Atlantic offers a host of comfortable spaces to dine and relax with a beverage throughout the day; there's the Waterside restaurant and terrace, the bar and lounge area and the snug, all overlooking the harbour, with far-reaching views across to the port and Porthmellon Beach. Service is attentive and friendly, with staff offering helpful tips and advice for planning your day.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Beachfront
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Bedrooms offer welcoming spaces to kick back and relax; think snug seating areas, coastal-inspired art and spectacular views of the harbour and coastline beyond Town Beach (those without coastal views overlook the cobbled high street of Hugh Town). All are decorated in a neutral palette with a nod to the surroundings.

Room types: Classic Room, Sea View Room, Superior Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with rain shower, Orla Kiely toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

Tuck into a wide selection of freshly prepared dishes served throughout the day, including a daily-changing specials board. The menu focuses on produce native to the islands, including fish and shellfish caught from the day boats. Staple dishes are from the St Austell Brewery's Coastal Pub and Kitchen menu; think seasonal pub classics, including St Austell Ale and seaweed-battered fish and chips, 6oz West Country beef burger, steamed mussels and catch-of-the-day.

The Atlantic: pub and terrace, harbour views. Classics and modern cuisine, including scampi, steamed mussels and west country burger. Open daily for lunch and dinner.