Welcome to the
Boathouse
Beach Bar & Restaurant in Instow
We’re proud to serve some of the finest seafood around, perfectly suited to our stunning beachfront setting with breathtaking coastal views. Our menu champions the best local ingredients, delivering an unforgettable dining experience, without the fuss.
Perched above the sandy shores of Instow beach, our ‘Top Deck’ might just be North Devon’s ultimate alfresco dining spot (trust us, sunset suppers here are a must in the summer).
Whether you’re stopping by for a cosy date night, a family feast, or a quick bite, our laid-back atmosphere is the perfect place to soak up the views, savour soul-warming food, and sip on something delicious.
Marcin and the crew can’t wait to welcome you.
Seasonal Food & Drink
Opening at 9am every day, we start with delicious breakfast baps and proper coffee, setting you up for the day ahead. From leisurely lunches by the bay to sunset dinners with breathtaking views, our fresh, seasonal menus offer something for everyone, serving up all-day dining at its finest.
Seaside Feasts
Our Head Chef Jamie Coleman, is passionate about crafting seasonal dishes that let the freshest British ingredients shine, giving them the respect and attention they deserve.
Perfectly suited to our relaxed beachfront vibe, our menu showcases locally sourced seafood and reared Exmoor cattle, it’s the heart of what we do. Served simply, fresh, and bursting with flavour, every dish reflects our love for the coast.
Meet Our Captain
With twenty years in hospitality – and nineteen of those spent on the North Devon coast – Marcin brings a depth of local knowledge, shaped by his time in Appledore and at nearby Saunton Sands.
Anchored by the sea and inspired by the community, Marcin is keen to get to know our loyal locals, welcome those discovering Instow for the first time, and celebrate the brilliant food and drink producers who make this corner of the coast so special. His aim is simple: to keep the Boathouse brimming with warmth, energy, and the easy flow of good times by the water.
Christmas by the Coast
With golden sands and sea views as your backdrop, enjoy mulled wine, champagne cocktails, and a festive feast full of seasonal flavours. Our crew will take care of every detail, leaving you free to relax, indulge, and soak up the sparkle of Christmas by the water.
Sunset Suppers
Stunning panoramic views that stretch across Instow Beach and beyond. Whether you’re joining us to soak up the sunshine over a lazy lunch, or settling in at golden hour for a sunset supper, there’s truly no better place to dine with a view.
Seaside Sundays
We’re talking juicy West Country beef, giant Yorkies, seasonal vegetables and boat loads of proper gravy; and that’s before we even mention our carefully crafted Bloody Mary’s. There’s no better day to bring all of the family together.
Dog Friendly
We’re so lucky to be just moments from the sandy shores of Instow Beach, a true paradise for dog walkers. We welcome dogs in our bar and Top Deck with plenty of treats to keep tails wagging.
Winter on the Water
Winter by the water has a magic all its own. From the Top Deck, sweeping views roll out across Instow Beach and the Torridge Estuary, where crisp skies meet shifting tides and the sea shimmers in the low sun.
Sit back, breathe it in, and let the horizon do the talking – golden sands, rolling waves, and ever-changing light. The perfect backdrop for unhurried moments, a glass in hand, and plates of the freshest catch shared with friends.
Gift Vouchers
Give the gift of The Boathouse. Why not treat someone special to a round of cocktails, a dinner for two or even one of our popular Sunday roasts.
National Lobster Hatchery
We’re so proud to support the conservation work of The National Lobster Hatchery.
Seaside Stays
We highly recommend our friends at the Seagate in Appledore, just a 10-minute drive away (or a ferry ride across the water). A true community hub, the Seagate offers a selection of beautifully appointed rooms – 10 above the pub and 7 in the charming converted sail loft by the Quay.
Stay In Touch
Keep up to date with our very latest news, events, tipples and treats.
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