The location might be too isolated for some, but the leisure facilities and spacious grounds mean there's plenty to do without leaving the hotel. The North Devon coast and Dartmoor are both about an hour's drive away, and it's a 30-minute drive to Exmoor. The pretty market town of South Molton is worth a visit, with market days on Thursdays and Saturdays.
By train: London Paddington to Taunton takes around 2 hours. The hotel is one hour's drive from the station. Book train tickets.
By car: around 4 hours 20 mins from London, and 2 hours 30 mins from Bath and Salisbury. Free private parking on-site.
There's a sense of grandeur to the place, owing to the tall ceilings and high stone arches, both original features of the house. Built in 1897 in the Arts and Crafts Style, scattered antiques look just right, although modern copies in some bedrooms stand out as imposters. A crackling fire invites you to relax whilst you admire the countryside through the huge bay windows.
The sporting facilities are the main draw - there's golf, fishing on the River Mole, shooting, tennis, even a multi-sport simulator. The leisure complex has a pool, sauna, steam room, gym and Elemis spa. However, the facilities are open to the public so get very busy on weekends. Pets are allowed on request; charges may apply.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Golf
- Tennis
- Fitness centre
- Spa
- Pet-friendly
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
Rooms in the main house feel grand and elegant, although the furniture and knick-knacks don't always create the desired effect. Estate rooms and self-catering cottages are in modern outbuildings; you'll need to walk through the grounds to the restaurant.
Room types: Manor House Single, Manor House Double, Estate Standard Double/ Twin, Estate Deluxe Double Room, Manor House Feature, Estate Family Room, Loft Suite
Key amenities: ensuite shower or bath, tea and coffee facilities, hairdryer, TV, free Wi-Fi
Enjoy fine dining with countryside views - think delicious Exmoor lamb with fondant potato or pan-fried turbot, or choose from the vegetarian menu. Décor is modern but the menu is traditional, showcasing wonderful Devon produce. Feel spoilt in Devon View by on-the-ball manager José Teixera, or head for The Cellars for a more casual setting.
Devon View: fine dining, traditonal British dishes. Open daily for breakfast and dinner.
The Cellars: bistro menu, pasta, pizza, steak, fish and chips.
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