North Devon is a beautiful part of the world, especially in the summer with those award winning coastlines against the backdrop of a brilliant blue sky. If you fancy visiting the region and are trying to narrow down some hotels, take a look at these suggestions for great places to stay around the region.
If you are coming to the region because you want to spend time on those beaches, book a stay at Saunton Sands Hotel. This four-star art deco hotel is located right on the seafront and overlooks three miles of Saunton Sands beach – one of the best in the UK. As part of the Brend family of hotels, you can be sure of state-of-the-art facilities, luxury accommodation and high quality service.
There are some incredible views of the sea from Heddons Gate Hotel too. Situated in the Heddon Valley where the South-West Coast Path dips down to the sea at Heddon’s Mouth, this is just one mile from the sea and close to Lynton and Combe Martin. The site gives the impression of being remote while also being close to some of the popular tourist spots. The hotel welcomes dogs in all rooms except the breakfast room – ideal for those who want to explore with your four legged friends in the surrounding countryside.
Image: Hartland Quay Hotel.
Somewhere else with great views is the Hartland Quay Hotel. Hartland Quay is one of the most picturesque places in North Devon and overlooks unspoilt coastline. It is ideal for those who want to get away from everything and has easy access to the South West Coast Path. It is a truly inspiring place that is steeped in history and Hartland Village with its artistic nature is just a short walk away.
A popular place to stay in the region is Barnstaple, North Devon’s premier market town. As one of the biggest towns in the area and close to the coast and many of the top attractions, it is a huge draw to visitors. The Imperial Hotel is part of the Brend portfolio and is perfectly placed to enable you to visit the town itself with its historic pannier market and shopping experiences. As with many of their hotels, the Imperial has a warm and tranquil atmosphere with all the luxuries you could ask for. Ideal for families, couples and groups, the Imperial is suitable for a host of holidays, with interconnecting rooms and family rooms with separate adjacent bedrooms for the kids. The onsite restaurants also offer adapted menus and there is a baby listening service and baby sitters on request.
Another of their hotels is the Barnstaple Hotel which has everything you need to work, rest and play in the lap of luxury. Both corporate and family friendly and only a 15 minute stroll into the heart of Barnstaple town centre, this is a hugely convenient location for exploring the wider North Devon area. As a guest at the Barnstaple, you will also be able to enjoy facilities at some of the hotel’s sister sites, though with 61 luxury rooms and an outdoor swimming pool, there is plenty to love here too. One of those sister hotels is the Park Hotel which is also in Barnstaple. The Park has a great location, halfway between nature and town and with a leafy parkside setting, is far enough from the hustle and bustle to appear tranquil but close enough for you to be able to join in with the fun of the town. Barnstaple is also home to the Royal and Fortescue Hotel which retains its historic charm while offering all the modern comforts you’d expect. The hotel stands at the historic high street and are just a few steps away from tempting designer shops, the pannier market and the town’s theatre. The hotel was originally a coaching inn and was granted the addition of the word Royal to their name after a visit from King Edward VII back when he was Prince of Wales. It is a truly elegant building and guests love to unwind in the cocktail bar.
If you like the sound of something with a real atmosphere, take a look at the Royal Hotel in nearby Bideford. This hotel dates back to the 17th century and the Kingsley Room still has its original pine panelling and ornate ceiling. It remains one of the finest hotels in Bideford and stands proudly next to Bideford Bridge where you can enjoy some glorious views of the River Torridge. Or how about booking a stay within the village of Clovelly? The Red Lion, an 18th century inn, lies alongside the village’s quay and has amazing views in every direction. Initially, it was a beer house for the fishermen of Clovelly and continues to be rich in maritime history. With a choice of rooms and the amazing harbour bar, it is a lovely place to spend a few days.
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Image: High Bullen Hotel
It isn’t just the coast that brings visitors to North Devon, the golfing opportunities are also a huge draw. Did you know the region is home to one of the oldest golf courses in the UK? It remains one of the best loved courses too and so, many people come to North Devon to enjoy a round or two. If a golfing holiday piques your interest, take a look at what is on offer at Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club. The hotel offers several short break packages, including tennis and golf breaks where you can enjoy the amazing settings of the HIghbullen estate, with added golf and tennis games included in the price. The hotel is well placed for visiting some of the area’s popular attractions, including Exmoor National Park and the South West Coast Path and are just ten minutes from the North Devon link Road, making it easily accessible across the whole region. Woodford Bridge Country Club by Diamond Resorts is perfect for those that want to enjoy a series of leisure facilities, including a pool, fitness centre and squash and badminton courts. It is a rural retreat with a difference, where you can feel like you’re at home and somewhere far away all at once.
Still not sure of where to stay in North Devon? Find more hotels and other options here.