Best Hotels in Devon and Cornwall
Good to see some of our finest hotels being recognised in The Sunday Times 100 Best British Hotels.
The family-friendly Watergate Bay Hotel was the winning hotel in the South West section, thanks partly to the ‘buzz about the place’, its choice of restaurants and its Kids’ Zone, Ofsted-registered and open daily from 8am to 10pm. And, of course, its location set atop two-miles of spectacular surfing beach.
It has to be said, though, that it’s a pretty good place for couples too. Treat yourself over the winter to a Taste of the Bay, a three-night stay at the hotel with dinner in Zacry’s Restaurant, The Beach Hut and Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen.
The newly-reopened Gara Rock near Salcombe was voted Best Seaside Hotel. I’ve written about this before and there’s a great selection of lofts, suites, apartments and cottages. 2019 will see the opening of the ‘Out of the Ordinary’ suites, including their Secret Suite for couples.
And perhaps not surprisingly the Best Romantic Hotel was Michael Caines’ Lympstone Manor overlooking the Exe estuary. The hotel is sumptuous, a perfect match for the exquisite Michelin-star food. You’ll be smitten in every way. Make the most of their special three nights for the price of two offer this autumn (running until the end of November) or their autumn lunch offer.
The ever-popular adults-only Scarlet got a mention. With its clifftop hot tubs and glass walls revealing its spectacular ocean backdrop it remains a firm favourite.
But good to see some newer names on the list, especially Lee Byre, a B&B at Coryton between Tavistock and Okehampton (pictured above). With just three rooms you’re going to have to wait a while to enjoy a visit here – the rooms are booked up until the end of the year. At the end of a track, sitting on the side of a hill enjoying woodland and river views Lee Byre makes a beautifully peaceful retreat – but step outside and be exhilarated by the walking, biking and wild swimming on the doorstep. Packed lunches and day- and night-time guided Dartmoor walks are on offer, as well as dinner and their own spring water.
