Tresco has to be one of the last great escapes in Britain, and at the Island Hotel you can do it in style. Colonial style to be precise, because that is the manner in which this hotel on the slopes above Old Grimsby Bay has been constructed. This is west coast of Scotland with weather.

A very awe inspiring maitre d' sets the tone in the restaurant, and if by any chance you have come down without a tie you instinctively feel uneasy, though there is no dress code as such.

A changing menu sets high standards and starters at dinner might offer a twice baked apple soufflé with celeriac salad and blue cheese dressing, or roast lamb cutlet with braised lamb shoulder and squashed lemon butter beans.

Amongst main courses expect to find poached fillet of brill in red wine with pommes puree and wild mushrooms, or pan fried pork loin with basil polenta, creamed anchovy and tomato sauce. Follow with warm port and cranberry figs and ice ginger parfait, or Eve's pudding with sauce Anglaise.

All this served against a maritime background of incredible splendour, and backed with a wine list that is as impeccable as the service. Be aware that the hotel closes for the winter.