EAST BEACH CAFE - Littlehampton, West Sussex

Why go there: A contemporary "copper armadillo" of a building conceived as a giant piece of washed-up driftwood by Thomas Heatherwick to fit in with the beach's "raw beauty". It's a must-see for architecture junkies.

What to eat: mussel, gurnard and salmon saffron chowder; locally caught sea bass with spring greens and Jerusalem artichoke puree; rhubarb and caramelised orange trifle; a breakfast menu is also available and there's a takeaway kiosk for picnic fare.

Reservations: 01903 731 903; www.eastbeachcafe.co.uk

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DE LA WARR PAVILION RESTAURANT - Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex

Why go there: This recently refurbished 70-year-old curvilinear beauty was designed with Modernist flair by Erich Mendelsohn and is home to an array of arts events throughout the year. Ideal for a one-stop feed of culture and local fare.

What to eat: County specialities on the menu includes Rye bay scallop salad; Southdowns lamb chops; Harveys beer battered fish & chips and Sussex pond pudding; the cafe serves a selection of muffins, homemade cakes and a mean brew.

Reservations: 01424 229 119; www.delawarrpavilion.com

11 THE QUAY - Ilfracombe, North Devon

Why go there: British artist Damien Hirst has jazzed up the interior of this Victorian inn on the harbourside with dining upstairs and cocktails in the cool bar below. Floor-to-ceiling windows are a feature in the Harbourside Room, while the kitchen, refreshingly, insists on local seafood.

What to eat: fresh salad and herbs from its market garden; freshly baked bread from the kitchen bakery below; oysters and Camel Valley sparkling wine; marinated anchovies, kikones or salted almonds off the tapas-like "nibbles" menu.

Reservations: 01271 868 090; www.11thequay.co.uk

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