Melfort Pier and Harbour Resort has nice 1980s architecture which blends in very well, but somehow it's all a bit sterile, maybe because it is entirely a holiday development of up-market self-catering houses (particularly suited to the disabled which is good to see). I believe some are being sold off as private homes. Maybe in a couple of hundred years this place will have a local population and some character, or it will be as much a ruin as the black houses. It is perhaps worth a look if you are passing this way.
About 15 minutes walk along the road to Kilmelford, past Melfort House which is younger than it looks (1960s) and is now run as an excellent B&B with dinner (but I think not for non- residents), you will find Melfort Village, a timeshare development constructed from the ruined 19th century gun-powder factory on the River Oude. Tennis court, indoor swimming pool, spa, playground, and snooker table are among the attractions for the residents. There is a restaurant, I think open to non-residents, the Gunpowder Kitchen and Bar (ph 07301 639541) which I have not tried. Or, you could walk the two miles into Kilmelford where you will find the village shop (I think now closed), and the Cuilfail Hotel which does meals and has real ale in a cosy bar (they may give you a lift if you call them on 01852 200274).
