Devon has an array of wonderful accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, there are unique properties full of home comforts and friendly faces. One of the most popular choices among travellers are the B&Bs in the region, one of them has even been named the Best B&B in the World!
If you’ve never experienced a Devon B&B stay, here are some of the reasons why it should be next on your list.
Personal attention
Ok, so you might end up on a first name basis with the receptionist of a well frequented hotel, but when you choose a B&B, you get a much more personalised service. Many of the region’s B&Bs have their hosts and owners living onsite, which means that they are on hand throughout the whole of your stay and will be dealing with you personally – unlike some of the larger properties on offer in Devon. If you like the personal touch, a B&B is the accommodation option for you.
The Grosvenor House Hotel in Torquay is run by a husband and wife duo who aim to make your stay as pleasurable as possible and offer stays for families, couples, those travelling for business and more. They are always on hand to offer advice and make sure you have the best stay.
Home cooked food
One of the main draws to a B&B holiday is the amazing home cooked breakfast on offer every morning. In Devon, it is even more so because the quality of the local produce is so high.
Image: Devon Farms' B&B
Like they say at Devon Farms’ B&B properties: There’s no better breakfast than a farmhouse breakfast! A stay with one of their B&B properties means food straight from the field and onto your plate – perfect for starting the day the right way.
Another working farm offering bed and breakfast accommodation is Upton Farm. A stay here puts you in the heart of the countryside and gives you the chance to enjoy a traditional Devon farmhouse stay with a local breakfast served in their farmhouse kitchen. In particular, the milk is a real must try – it is farmed right on site and it is true, happy cows do provide the best milk!
Little extras
Yes, you might get a couple of complimentary things when staying in a hotel, but often, B&Bs go above and beyond and offer lots of surprising little extras.
In Torquay, you’ll find the Southbank Townhouse, where you can find a range of Basic Earth toiletries which are an environmentally friendly, biodegradable toiletry range and are provided free of charge. The breakfasts are locally sourced and a range of amenities are provided on request.
At the Granary B&B, it isn’t all about breakfast, though of course, that is a big part of a stay here. Guests also have access to a log fire pizza oven, so you can spend your evenings relaxing on the grounds and creating your own delicious pizzas. The perfect way to round off a day. The B&B also has a games room, the chance to get involved with the lambing and meeting of the new chicks in the spring!
While some of us love the idea of holidaying with the whole family and having a chance for the kids to make new friends, others just want a quiet break away from it all, which is why there are a host of adult only B&Bs throughout the county. In the heart of Brixham Harbour there is the Driftwood Boutique B&B which has even appeared on TV!
Bring your furry friends with you
More often than not, you’ll find that B&Bs are happy to accept dogs, which means that your four legged family members can also join in the fun of a holiday. One dog friendly B&B is Heddons Gate in North Devon, which welcomes dogs in all rooms but their breakfast room and is well placed for enjoying long, rambling walks in the surrounding countryside.
Amazing history
If you love history and well… Stories in general – a B&B stay is a great choice for you. Not only do you have the owners to chat to about the locality, but you’ll often find that there is something interesting about the property itself. For instance, there are B&Bs in Torquay that were once frequented by Agatha Christie and even B&B accommodations in actual castles!
Another option for those that love staying somewhere historic are the B&B rooms at Dartington Hall. Found near the bohemian town of Totnes, Dartington Hall is a listed building with beautiful grounds and plenty of onsite entertainment, including its own cinema.
Image: Dartington Hall
Bulleigh Barton Manor has three individually styled rooms, two of which are in the oldest part of the house which is believed to date back to the 1400s. Not only that, but it is an AA Five Star B&B and has been shortlisted for Friendliest B&B of the Year.
Unique locations
When it comes to the location, Devon has some of the most amazing views and many of the region’s B&Bs have taken full advantage of that.
For a B&B with a beautiful sea view, take a look at the Waterfront Inn in Westward Ho! The inn itself is right on the seafront, giving you easy access to one of the region’s best loved and award-winning beaches.
Tor Royal B&B and Shepherds Huts are another option for those that love something a bit more unique. The farm is family run and can be found within the Dartmoor National Park, it was originally built by Sir Thomas Tyrwhitt who farmed the land for the royals at the time, but today is a working farm with comfortable B&B accommodation, either in the main house or in a Shepherd’s Hut with its own log fired hot tub.
If you are looking for a way to get away from it all, book a wellness break at the Sharpham Trust. The house itself is a Grade I listed mansion, while the Coach house, the Barn, the Cabin and the Woodland Campsite all offer different accommodation and wellness. Plus, with the beautiful grounds there are lots of lovely sights to explore.
Local knowledge
If you want a built in tour guide, make sure to stay at a B&B – your hosts will be local people and will know all there is to know about the area you’re staying in.
For a city break, take a look at the Townhouse Exeter. It isn’t just a place to stay, you’ll find Hypnos beds, the chance to breakfast in your pyjamas and high speed WiFi in every room. Plus, the whole of the city is available to you from the doorstep, so whether you want to explore the city’s history or do a spot of shopping, your hosts are here to give you the secrets that only residents know.
Supports small businesses
One benefit of staying in a B&B is that because they are often independently owned, you are supporting a small business with every visit.
Brunswick House in Teignmouth is a family run property that is close to the seafront and has some incredible breakfasts on offer every morning.
In Brixham, you’ll find Hervé and Nathalie, the owners of Beacon House. While both originally from France and Mauritius respectively, the pair have loved Brixham from the first moment they visited and have really created a small and comfortable B&B full of friendly atmosphere and delightful breakfasts. The house has a nautical and rustic charm and has some stunning views of the harbour.
Value for money
When it comes to getting the most for your money, a B&B stay is a must. Not only are they traditionally cheaper than a hotel stay, but because they are often family run and independent, you can often get some amazing last minute deals and budget holidays
Have we convinced you to give a B&B stay a go on your next trip to Devon? Find more amazing B&Bs here.
