Accommodation Recommendations
When in the South West, you'll need somewhere to stay, to call home and base camp whilst you explore the wonderful South West of England.
Here are some great hotels in amazing areas, large and small, as well as guest houses and some self catering establishments that I have collected previous guests from and can highly recommend. From high Dartmoor to the clifftops of the Devon coast,
classy city town houses to riverside escapes. The West Country has inspiring choices of accommodation and the list below collates some of my favourites.
Devon
Bovey Castle. North Bovey. Dartmoor National Park. Devon TQ12 8RE
A 60 bedroom, 5 star hotel set in 300 acres of estate grounds. The hotel boasts an 18 hole Abercromby designed PGA golf course, both grass and all weather tennis courts, fishing lake, archery and air rifle ranges as well as a 4x4 experience track and clay pigeon shooting range too. They cater with two restaurants, a fine dining experience and more informal bistro style and an art-deco oak bar. Relax in their luxury Elan spa and pool facility as well as a recently completed wellness studio. The estate also contains 23 self catering luxury lodges that offer access to all onsite facilities with that away from the hotel privacy. A great facility for families and larger groups to use as a base whilst exploring the area.
Gidleigh Park. Gidleigh. Dartmoor National Park. Devon TQ13 8HH
Country manor style luxury with 5 star rooms and restaurant. 30 bedrooms, exclusive luxury Pavilion lodge facility and secluded quiet estate walks, tennis courts and carefully maintained garden grounds. Gidleigh specialise in their menu and food offerings, one for the foodie types for sure.
Part of the Brownsword Hotel group it provides guests with the ultimate, classic country experience. The best afternoon tea you will ever have the joy of experiencing.
Hotel Endsleigh, Milton Abbot, West Devon, NW Dartmoor. PL19 0PQ
A truly special place. Part of the Polizzi Collection of hotels. A boutique country manor house that was once the home of the Duke of Bedford and his Duchess Lady. Gardens designed by Humphrey Repton and over 100 acres of paradise in a quiet corner of Devon.
Daily garden tours, fly fishing lessons, afternoon tea on the terrace and a great fire place library. Dining at all levels and extensive menus from great local seasonal producers.
Gara Rock Hotel East Portlemouth nr Salcombe, Devon TQ8 8FA
Perched on the edge of a cliff in the stunning South Hams, they're as far away from it all as you can possibly imagine. The ultimate destination for rest, relaxation and all things wonderful, once you arrive you simply won't want to leave. The views are unrivaled and their award-winning restaurant has a menu to match. With beautiful beaches a short walk away and Salcombe on their doorstep, gorgeous Gara is an absolute must for any Devon adventure. Seascape views from all luxury rooms, grand suites, their Penthouse and Signal House as well as the incredible Secret Suite. Locally sourced food that influences inspiring menus with arguably the best views from any restaurant in the South West. Has to be seen to be believed.
Boringdon Hall Hotel. Plymton. Edge of Dartmoor National Park. Devon. PL7 4DP
Dating back to the Domesday Book, Boringdon is quite unique. They have 42 luxury rooms and the award winning purpose built wellness Gaia Spa within the grounds is an absolute must. A place to escape and unwind. Two restaurants, open fire warmed lounges and a warm welcome. On the edge of Dartmoor National Park and minutes from the main A38 highway through the county.
Lympstone Manor. Lympstone. Exmouth. Devon. EX8 3NZ
Refined luxury and one of the fine dining greats in the South West. Owned and run by the celebrated chef Michael Caines MBE, one of the UKs most successful and experimental fine dining executive chefs. Lympstone boasts 21 luxury rooms, heated pool facility and recently the long term investment of its own vineyard around which they provide tours and tasting sessions. Set on the banks of the river Exe, 10 mins from Exeter city and on the rail line it is perfectly placed for exploring East Devon, the Jurassic Coast and Dartmoor. Five star standards set the bar very high here and is frequently winning awards for menus, service and promoting the south Wests finest producers.
Ilsington Country House Hotel. Ilsington. Haytor Vale. Dartmoor National Park. Devon. TQ13 9RR
Award winning Spa retreat with a two AA rosette awarded restaurant that offers some of the finest menu choices in South Devon. Championing local produce and suppliers it focuses on sustainable tourism. Nestled in the valley below one of Dartmoors most visited Tors, Haytor, the Ilsington Hotel is a great choice for those wanting to escape, explore and then relax and be pampered. One of the best cream teas you will find anywhere in Devon.
The Cary Arms. Babbacombe. Torquay. Devon TQ1 3LX
A boutique coastal retreat with old English Inn charm combined with fresh and flamboyant food offerings, as well as nautical style and vibrancy right on the beach front in Babbacombe, Torquay, part of the English Riviera. A small but wonderfully refreshing hotel that has many unique features, including luxury beach hut lodges, infinity style pool and recently added Gaia Spa facility. Multi award winning for its food, hospitality and able to cater for couples, families and even sea dogs.
The Three Crowns. Chagford. Dartmoor National Park. Devon. TQ13 8AJ
Classic historical 13th Century Inn with a far reaching past. Links to the Civil War of 1642 and the location whereby Sidney Godolphin was shot in a skirmish between the Roundheads and Cavaliers. A charming part thatched manor like inn. Fantastic menus with produce and food sourced locally, 21 individual boutique style rooms and even has 6 dog friendly suites for your four legged friends. Chagford is perfectly placed for a base to explore Dartmoor. The town is one of the four Stannary Towns of Dartmoor and has retained its market feel with several unique shops and crafts specialists.
Headweir Mill House, Exeter EX4 3AB
A great small boutique hotel that adjoins the Mill On The Exe, right on the river banks of Devon's longest waterway.
A short distance from the centre of Exeter and minutes from St Davids station, Exeter's main railway stop on the main London line. Exeter, or Isca to the Romans, is Devon's county capital and its cathedral has the longest, uninterrupted Medieval vaulted ceiling ever built.
Southernhay House Hotel, Exeter, EX1 1NX
Located in central Exeter, this classy and chic boutique hotel is two minutes walk from Cathedral Green and the Cathedral itself. Fantastic rooms, restaurant and a great place to base yourself when staying in the city. Consistently good reviews and guests have always loved its location on the edge of the city centre.
The Torcroft Hotel, Torquay, Devon TQ2 5UE
Classic Torquay boutique hotel. Family run and very chic in decor taste and design. Brings home the English Riviera feel and 5mins walk from the Abbey Sands beaches of Torquay's waterfront and only a 10min stroll from the harbour area and Princess Theatre. A favourite for guests who have stayed during the annual Agatha Christie Festival in September as one of her infamous plays always features at the theatre.
The Holland Group Dartmouth, Devon
Sixteen self catering apartments, all with riverside views and waterfront perspectives in the beautiful river town of Dartmouth.
One of the jewels in Devon's crown, Dartmouth is a stunning destination. Located at the mouth of the river Dart it has been a hugely influential port in Naval history, important historical events and has seen its fair share of Seafaring greats pass through the narrow streets of the town.
Holland Group have 16 self catering apartments and two of Dartmouth's key restaurants, The Embankment Bistro - the UKs only purpose built station that has nor will never see tracks and is now a bistro style eatery and waterfront champagne bar, and also The Angel - one of Dartmouth's best fine dining experience establishments. Combine these fantastic facilities with reserve-able parking in the town and the package is complete. Guests who book via Holland can benefit from a 10% discount on day tour costs.
Brend Hotel Collection
Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth
A luxury 4* classic Victorian waterfront hotel overlooking Lyme Bay in Sidmouth. A perfect base to explore the Jurassic Coast and not far from the county city of Exeter. Great restaurant, sport and spa/pool facilities and the Brend Hotel Collection standards of hospitality. One of two Brend Hotels in Sidmouth, the other being The Belmont, neighbours and clear winners in the old Victorian seaside resort town. Another great restaurant and guests have access to the Victoria Hotel spa, pool and sports facilities.
Other hotels in their group can be found in North Devon at the stunning Saunton Sands and market town of Barnstaple. In Cornwall on the cliffs at Carlyon Bay and in the port town of Falmouth as well as close to Exeter with close link to A38 and city stations in Devon.
See here for the existing listing.
Cornwall
Hotel Tresanton St Mawes, Roseland TR2 5DR
Situated on the estuary banks overlooking calm waters where they moor their own 8m private yacht that guests can charter, Tresanton is a gem on the Roseland peninsula. A quiet and realtively undiscovered part of Cornwall away from the hustle of St Ives and bustle of Penzance.
A 30 bedroom unique complex spread across sseveral beachfront properties all interconnected to the main hotel hub with its bright, fresh and nautical décor, fine dining restaurant and terraces as well as several lounge areas.
The Lugger Hotel Portloe Roseland Cornwall TR2 5RD
Cornish fishing cove charm meets five star hospitality. Located in the quiet and picturesque Portloe, a small historic fishing hamlet tucked away in the secret folds of the Roseland area of outstanding natural beauty, the Lugger is the real Cornish experience. Great restaurant, fantastic views out to the sea and a charm difficult to rival anywhere in the UK.
St Michaels Resort Gyllyngvase Beach, Stracey Rd, Falmouth TR11 4NB
Located on the edge of Cornwalls great historic port, Falmouth, the St Michaels Resort boasts bright and fresh hotel rooms, stylish self catering accommodation and award winning dining facilities as well as a luxury spa facilities too. Beach side with many yoga and retreat style activity availability it is a great place to refresh and relax.
Watergate Bay Hotel Watergate Beach Newquay TR8 4AA
Literally on the beach where you can obseve the surfers catching the dusk waves from their infinity pool.
Bright, fresh and vibrant décor with Cornish charm and a real beachside feel to the establishment. fantastic choice of suites, family rooms and self catering accommodation also. A real winner with those wanting to mix some water activities and surf school action into their Westcountry adventure.
The Pig Hotels
Harlyn Bay Cornwall
Sited atop the cliffs overlooking Harlyn Bay near Padstow, the Pig at Harlyn is an opportunity to mix country living with coastal charm.
15 assorted rooms all with distinct character and a great restaurant where their rules are the 25 mile field, farm and market to table ethic.
The Pig chain have their own kitchen gardens and work closely with sustainable supplier sources to keep their overall carbon footprint and produce fresh and to a top regional standard.
Combe Gittisham Devon
Nestled away on a private estate, a honey coloured Elizabethan Manor invites weary travellers in for rest, relaxation and great dining.
Over a dozen room combinations, fantastic walled kitchen garden and fresh produce seasonally selected to suit carefully designed menus and only 10 miles from the coast therefore has a great seafood offering that is fresh from local markets. The 25 mile from supplier to table rule runs deep in the ethos of this hotel group.
*Image at screen header is Bovey Castle, Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Here are some great hotels in amazing areas, large and small, as well as guest houses and some self catering establishments that I have collected previous guests from and can highly recommend. From high Dartmoor to the clifftops of the Devon coast,
classy city town houses to riverside escapes. The West Country has inspiring choices of accommodation and the list below collates some of my favourites.
Devon
Bovey Castle. North Bovey. Dartmoor National Park. Devon TQ12 8RE
A 60 bedroom, 5 star hotel set in 300 acres of estate grounds. The hotel boasts an 18 hole Abercromby designed PGA golf course, both grass and all weather tennis courts, fishing lake, archery and air rifle ranges as well as a 4x4 experience track and clay pigeon shooting range too. They cater with two restaurants, a fine dining experience and more informal bistro style and an art-deco oak bar. Relax in their luxury Elan spa and pool facility as well as a recently completed wellness studio. The estate also contains 23 self catering luxury lodges that offer access to all onsite facilities with that away from the hotel privacy. A great facility for families and larger groups to use as a base whilst exploring the area.
Gidleigh Park. Gidleigh. Dartmoor National Park. Devon TQ13 8HH
Country manor style luxury with 5 star rooms and restaurant. 30 bedrooms, exclusive luxury Pavilion lodge facility and secluded quiet estate walks, tennis courts and carefully maintained garden grounds. Gidleigh specialise in their menu and food offerings, one for the foodie types for sure.
Part of the Brownsword Hotel group it provides guests with the ultimate, classic country experience. The best afternoon tea you will ever have the joy of experiencing.
Hotel Endsleigh, Milton Abbot, West Devon, NW Dartmoor. PL19 0PQ
A truly special place. Part of the Polizzi Collection of hotels. A boutique country manor house that was once the home of the Duke of Bedford and his Duchess Lady. Gardens designed by Humphrey Repton and over 100 acres of paradise in a quiet corner of Devon.
Daily garden tours, fly fishing lessons, afternoon tea on the terrace and a great fire place library. Dining at all levels and extensive menus from great local seasonal producers.
Gara Rock Hotel East Portlemouth nr Salcombe, Devon TQ8 8FA
Perched on the edge of a cliff in the stunning South Hams, they're as far away from it all as you can possibly imagine. The ultimate destination for rest, relaxation and all things wonderful, once you arrive you simply won't want to leave. The views are unrivaled and their award-winning restaurant has a menu to match. With beautiful beaches a short walk away and Salcombe on their doorstep, gorgeous Gara is an absolute must for any Devon adventure. Seascape views from all luxury rooms, grand suites, their Penthouse and Signal House as well as the incredible Secret Suite. Locally sourced food that influences inspiring menus with arguably the best views from any restaurant in the South West. Has to be seen to be believed.
Boringdon Hall Hotel. Plymton. Edge of Dartmoor National Park. Devon. PL7 4DP
Dating back to the Domesday Book, Boringdon is quite unique. They have 42 luxury rooms and the award winning purpose built wellness Gaia Spa within the grounds is an absolute must. A place to escape and unwind. Two restaurants, open fire warmed lounges and a warm welcome. On the edge of Dartmoor National Park and minutes from the main A38 highway through the county.
Lympstone Manor. Lympstone. Exmouth. Devon. EX8 3NZ
Refined luxury and one of the fine dining greats in the South West. Owned and run by the celebrated chef Michael Caines MBE, one of the UKs most successful and experimental fine dining executive chefs. Lympstone boasts 21 luxury rooms, heated pool facility and recently the long term investment of its own vineyard around which they provide tours and tasting sessions. Set on the banks of the river Exe, 10 mins from Exeter city and on the rail line it is perfectly placed for exploring East Devon, the Jurassic Coast and Dartmoor. Five star standards set the bar very high here and is frequently winning awards for menus, service and promoting the south Wests finest producers.
Ilsington Country House Hotel. Ilsington. Haytor Vale. Dartmoor National Park. Devon. TQ13 9RR
Award winning Spa retreat with a two AA rosette awarded restaurant that offers some of the finest menu choices in South Devon. Championing local produce and suppliers it focuses on sustainable tourism. Nestled in the valley below one of Dartmoors most visited Tors, Haytor, the Ilsington Hotel is a great choice for those wanting to escape, explore and then relax and be pampered. One of the best cream teas you will find anywhere in Devon.
The Cary Arms. Babbacombe. Torquay. Devon TQ1 3LX
A boutique coastal retreat with old English Inn charm combined with fresh and flamboyant food offerings, as well as nautical style and vibrancy right on the beach front in Babbacombe, Torquay, part of the English Riviera. A small but wonderfully refreshing hotel that has many unique features, including luxury beach hut lodges, infinity style pool and recently added Gaia Spa facility. Multi award winning for its food, hospitality and able to cater for couples, families and even sea dogs.
The Three Crowns. Chagford. Dartmoor National Park. Devon. TQ13 8AJ
Classic historical 13th Century Inn with a far reaching past. Links to the Civil War of 1642 and the location whereby Sidney Godolphin was shot in a skirmish between the Roundheads and Cavaliers. A charming part thatched manor like inn. Fantastic menus with produce and food sourced locally, 21 individual boutique style rooms and even has 6 dog friendly suites for your four legged friends. Chagford is perfectly placed for a base to explore Dartmoor. The town is one of the four Stannary Towns of Dartmoor and has retained its market feel with several unique shops and crafts specialists.
Headweir Mill House, Exeter EX4 3AB
A great small boutique hotel that adjoins the Mill On The Exe, right on the river banks of Devon's longest waterway.
A short distance from the centre of Exeter and minutes from St Davids station, Exeter's main railway stop on the main London line. Exeter, or Isca to the Romans, is Devon's county capital and its cathedral has the longest, uninterrupted Medieval vaulted ceiling ever built.
Southernhay House Hotel, Exeter, EX1 1NX
Located in central Exeter, this classy and chic boutique hotel is two minutes walk from Cathedral Green and the Cathedral itself. Fantastic rooms, restaurant and a great place to base yourself when staying in the city. Consistently good reviews and guests have always loved its location on the edge of the city centre.
The Torcroft Hotel, Torquay, Devon TQ2 5UE
Classic Torquay boutique hotel. Family run and very chic in decor taste and design. Brings home the English Riviera feel and 5mins walk from the Abbey Sands beaches of Torquay's waterfront and only a 10min stroll from the harbour area and Princess Theatre. A favourite for guests who have stayed during the annual Agatha Christie Festival in September as one of her infamous plays always features at the theatre.
The Holland Group Dartmouth, Devon
Sixteen self catering apartments, all with riverside views and waterfront perspectives in the beautiful river town of Dartmouth.
One of the jewels in Devon's crown, Dartmouth is a stunning destination. Located at the mouth of the river Dart it has been a hugely influential port in Naval history, important historical events and has seen its fair share of Seafaring greats pass through the narrow streets of the town.
Holland Group have 16 self catering apartments and two of Dartmouth's key restaurants, The Embankment Bistro - the UKs only purpose built station that has nor will never see tracks and is now a bistro style eatery and waterfront champagne bar, and also The Angel - one of Dartmouth's best fine dining experience establishments. Combine these fantastic facilities with reserve-able parking in the town and the package is complete. Guests who book via Holland can benefit from a 10% discount on day tour costs.
Brend Hotel Collection
Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth
A luxury 4* classic Victorian waterfront hotel overlooking Lyme Bay in Sidmouth. A perfect base to explore the Jurassic Coast and not far from the county city of Exeter. Great restaurant, sport and spa/pool facilities and the Brend Hotel Collection standards of hospitality. One of two Brend Hotels in Sidmouth, the other being The Belmont, neighbours and clear winners in the old Victorian seaside resort town. Another great restaurant and guests have access to the Victoria Hotel spa, pool and sports facilities.
Other hotels in their group can be found in North Devon at the stunning Saunton Sands and market town of Barnstaple. In Cornwall on the cliffs at Carlyon Bay and in the port town of Falmouth as well as close to Exeter with close link to A38 and city stations in Devon.
See here for the existing listing.
Cornwall
Hotel Tresanton St Mawes, Roseland TR2 5DR
Situated on the estuary banks overlooking calm waters where they moor their own 8m private yacht that guests can charter, Tresanton is a gem on the Roseland peninsula. A quiet and realtively undiscovered part of Cornwall away from the hustle of St Ives and bustle of Penzance.
A 30 bedroom unique complex spread across sseveral beachfront properties all interconnected to the main hotel hub with its bright, fresh and nautical décor, fine dining restaurant and terraces as well as several lounge areas.
The Lugger Hotel Portloe Roseland Cornwall TR2 5RD
Cornish fishing cove charm meets five star hospitality. Located in the quiet and picturesque Portloe, a small historic fishing hamlet tucked away in the secret folds of the Roseland area of outstanding natural beauty, the Lugger is the real Cornish experience. Great restaurant, fantastic views out to the sea and a charm difficult to rival anywhere in the UK.
St Michaels Resort Gyllyngvase Beach, Stracey Rd, Falmouth TR11 4NB
Located on the edge of Cornwalls great historic port, Falmouth, the St Michaels Resort boasts bright and fresh hotel rooms, stylish self catering accommodation and award winning dining facilities as well as a luxury spa facilities too. Beach side with many yoga and retreat style activity availability it is a great place to refresh and relax.
Watergate Bay Hotel Watergate Beach Newquay TR8 4AA
Literally on the beach where you can obseve the surfers catching the dusk waves from their infinity pool.
Bright, fresh and vibrant décor with Cornish charm and a real beachside feel to the establishment. fantastic choice of suites, family rooms and self catering accommodation also. A real winner with those wanting to mix some water activities and surf school action into their Westcountry adventure.
The Pig Hotels
Harlyn Bay Cornwall
Sited atop the cliffs overlooking Harlyn Bay near Padstow, the Pig at Harlyn is an opportunity to mix country living with coastal charm.
15 assorted rooms all with distinct character and a great restaurant where their rules are the 25 mile field, farm and market to table ethic.
The Pig chain have their own kitchen gardens and work closely with sustainable supplier sources to keep their overall carbon footprint and produce fresh and to a top regional standard.
Combe Gittisham Devon
Nestled away on a private estate, a honey coloured Elizabethan Manor invites weary travellers in for rest, relaxation and great dining.
Over a dozen room combinations, fantastic walled kitchen garden and fresh produce seasonally selected to suit carefully designed menus and only 10 miles from the coast therefore has a great seafood offering that is fresh from local markets. The 25 mile from supplier to table rule runs deep in the ethos of this hotel group.
*Image at screen header is Bovey Castle, Dartmoor National Park, Devon
