The Best Hotels in North Devon

8th July 2019

Categories: Visitor News

 The Best Hotels in North Devon

Here in North Devon, we’re lucky to have a huge array of accommodation options. The variety of holiday parks, campsites and self-catering cottages, mean our visitors are absolutely spoiled for choice.

Sometimes, however, you want a little bit of luxury where you choose to lay your head. And with a number of opulent hotels in the area, that’s absolutely no problem in North Devon. Nestled amongst rural beauty or with a stunning view out to sea, great service is always guaranteed in any of these spots - so keep reading to discover all of our top hotel recommendations.

The Commodore Hotel, Instow

Credit: The Commodore Hotel

The Commodore Hotel is located in picturesque Instow, a village brimming with activity and a perfect pitstop for exploring the rest of North Devon. It has its own sandy beach, some of the best and liveliest pubs in the area, as well as quick access to the Tarka Trail, for beautiful scenic strolls leading you through to Bideford or Barnstaple.

The Commodore overlooks the estuaries of the rivers Taw and Torridge, promising its guests magnificent waterfront views (especially if you book a sea room) alongside a view across to the charming village of Appledore.

The Park Hotel, Barnstaple

A four-star hotel in the bustling town of Barnstaple, The Park Hotel is one of the most luxurious in the area with a modern interior design and cosmopolitan aesthetic. 

Despite its central location and close proximity to the town centre, it’s surrounded by a leafy park, which gives it a very Devonshire feel, as well as providing guests with that much-needed sense of tranquility and relaxation. The Seasons Bar and Brasserie is located on site and is perfect for refuelling with delicious food or a welcome cocktail, and is known locally as a vibrant hub of the community. 

The Red Lion Hotel, Clovelly

An 18th century building that once served as a pitstop for Clovelly fishermen, The Red Lion now serves as a hotel, complete with a bar and restaurant perfect for unwinding.

Overlooking the iconic Clovelly Harbour, you can watch the boats come and go on the water. Recently refurbished, the hotel prides itself on combining modern luxury with traditional charm. Clovelly is a timeless village, with no cars, only cobbles, sledges, and donkeys, making for a break unlike any other. The Red Lion is the perfect place to rest up after exploring, and has a unique Sail Loft available just a stone’s throw away from the main venue. 

The Saunton Sands Hotel, Saunton

The iconic Saunton Sands Hotel is a four-star, art deco hotel, directly overlooking the spectacular Saunton Sands Beach, a favourite for surfers and sunbathers alike. With sweeping views out over sand and sea, enjoy utter serenity in a location that really is like few others.

With luxurious rooms, some of which come complete with breathtaking ocean views, the hotel has its own rejuvenating three-level spa, which is home to facilities such as a marine-inspired thermal suite, gym and tennis court, as well as an indoor and outdoor pool (which overlooks the beach!). It also has a variety of dining options - the Dining Room, Terrace Lounge and Beachside Grill, so there’s something for all appetites. 

Hartland Quay Hotel, Hartland

A historic building, having been a hotel since 1886, Hartland Quay Hotel sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking rugged, unspoilt coastline and breathtaking wild beauty. At the corner of Hartland Peninsula - one of the most revered locations in North Devon for its dramatic cliffs, rocky beach and crashing tides - you’ll have easy access to the beach and stunning walks, including access to the South West Coast Path.

Its tranquil location is known for attracting writers, artists and walkers, looking to get back to nature and be inspired by incredible landscape. The hotel is cosy and family-run, with comfortable bedrooms, welcoming service, and a bustling bar and restaurant.

Watersmeet Hotel, Woolacombe 

Watersmeet Hotel is another fantastic location for making the most of North Devon’s stunning stretch of coast, located in beautiful Woolacombe. Situated to overlook Combesgate Beach, there are private steps down towards it, with Barricane Beach and Woolacombe Beach not far away at all.

A four-star boutique hotel, other features include an award-winning restaurant, and an indoor and outdoor pool with spa facilities, offering a range of therapeutic and holistic treatments right at the water’s edge. 

The Highbullen Hotel, Umberleigh

Nestled amongst the rolling North Devon hills and miles upon miles of uninterrupted countryside is the Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club. With recently refurbished, luxury rooms and a building rich in history, there’s the perfect blend of the traditional and contemporary.

The Highbullen has a fantastic golf course, as well as a gym, pool, and revitalising spa with bespoke treatments, including a sauna, jacuzzi and steam room for unwinding. The Laura Ashley Tea Room is revered by guests and locals for its Afternoon Tea, as well as other homemade baked goods and hot meals.

The Carlton Hotel, Ilfracombe

Situated close to Ilfracombe town centre, The Carlton Hotel has a central location perfect for exploring the vibrant seaside scene, and is adjacent to the Tunnels Beaches - a must-see for any North Devon trip. 

A range of rooms allows the choice between a more classic feel or a recently refurbished deluxe suite, though comfort and cosiness is always ensured. Facilities include a fitness centre, a bar, brasserie and coffee lounge, as well as easy access to any of the exciting activities available in Ilfracombe. 

Whichever hotel you pick, or whatever you require for your break, you’re sure to have a great time on your next North Devon break! If you’ve got one coming up - especially if it’s in any of the hotels we’ve mentioned - make sure to let us know on our social media. Or if we’ve missed your favourite location, give it a shout out. You can find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.