I first stayed at the Village Inn more than 20 years ago, when it was, as far as I know, the only game in town. I very much enjpyed my first visit, during which I stayed in what Mr. Beamish calls the "Bridal Suite". I had a nocturnal visit that was memorable. Years on, I went with my family - two beds, bathroom across the hall. It was cosy and fun, and the same room assigned to us on our most recent visit. A few years later, in company with my mother and sister, we got the "Guest House". Not a fun experience, on the whole. Mrs. Beamish is a master actress with facial expressions and body language that conjure images of Sybil Fawltey! The Village Inn is potentially the best property by far in the town. The Beamishes have grown somewhat smug over the years but I still find them, at their best, to be quite engaging and charming hosts. The dining room staff are fantastic and very accomodating. Forget the whale stuff! Get Mrs Beamish chatting about the town and preserves she sells at the front counter and his nibs on the accordion late at night, and you'll have a fantastic stay. With their guard down, the Beamishes are a fantastic couple.
