David and Sharon Parker took over Boscundle Manor a while ago. It's been a mainstay of the guide for many years, and last time we looked was becoming tired and frayed around the edges. The Parkers stepped in, however, with a full-scale refurbishment plan, which is now complete. The previous owners took most of the antiques with them, so new furniture, mainly oriental mahogany, features throughout. Carpets and curtains have been replaced, fresh coats of paint brighten the walls, and the bathrooms and bedrooms sparkle.

  The grounds are now 5 acres of terraced gardens and woodland, with several pleasant walks through the woods. There are ponds and an old tin mine remains.

  The Parkers have also changed the sunny conservatory into a brasserie for casual dining. The formal dining room has a daily-changing menu using Cornish produce whenever available. The butter on the table comes from hand-milked cows and is hand-packed at the local dairy. Chef Jonny Gilbert looks after the cooking and David eagerly seeks guests' reactions to new dishes.