Boutique Hotels in Devon: The Insider’s Guide to the Most Charming Stays
You’re seeking that perfect escape, somewhere that captures your heart the moment you arrive. Devon’s picturesque countryside and stunning coastline deliver exactly that magic. Golden sandy beaches, dramatic moorland that takes your breath away in places like Exmoor National Park. Those picture-perfect seaside towns you see on postcards, they’re real, and they’re here.
Weekend travellers have discovered what locals have always known, Devon isn’t just another holiday destination. It’s where memories are made.
But here’s what transforms a good trip into an unforgettable one: finding accommodation that truly captures Devon’s soul. The difference between a pleasant stay and one you’ll reminisce about for years, it’s all in the details.
Devon’s boutique hotels offer accommodations as wonderfully diverse as its landscapes. From a luxury country hotel tucked into rolling hills to a beachfront spa hotel kissed by sea spray, this region knows how to surprise you. The finest Devon boutique hotels don’t just provide guest rooms for the night – they weave local character into exceptional service, creating experiences that generic chain hotels simply cannot touch.
Think specially curated amenities that reflect the region’s personality. Fine dining that tells the story of Devon’s countryside and coast. Personal touches that make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret.
Ready for the tour?
This guide will take you on a journey through Devon’s boutique gems with their rugged coastal drama, family-friendly retreats perfect for creating those precious memories, and luxury escapes where indulgence meets authentic Devon character.
Eighteen remarkable properties await. Each one captures something essential about this beloved corner of South West England
Let’s explore.
Coastal Escapes: Boutique Hotels by the Sea
Devon’s rugged coastline doesn’t just offer views – it delivers experiences that stay with you long after you’ve left. These coastal retreats understand something important: luxury isn’t just thread count and marble bathrooms. It’s about waking up to the sound of waves, breathing salt air from your balcony, and feeling the sea become part of your story.
South Sands – A beachside haven in Salcombe
Some hotels claim to be on the beach. South Sands Hotel actually means it.
Nestled directly on Salcombe’s stunning estuary beachfront, this independent gem opened in 2010 with charming New England style and 22 beautifully appointed bedrooms. Many offer views so close to the water, you’ll swear you can reach out and touch the sea from your balcony.
Here’s what makes South Sands special – no shuttle buses, no long walks through car parks. Step barefoot from your room straight onto Salcombe North Sands. The team embraces that laid-back coastal spirit, creating the kind of atmosphere that keeps guests booking their return before they’ve even checked out.
Dog lovers, take note: your four-legged family members get the VIP treatment with welcome packs containing treats, blankets and bowls. Because the best walking holiday breaks include everyone.
Gara Rock – Clifftop views and boho charm
Dramatic doesn’t begin to cover it.
Perched on a seaside clifftop near Salcombe, Gara Rock Hotel commands views that make you forget your phone exists. Following major refurbishment, this boutique gem now showcases stylish interiors with bohemian soul – think jute rugs and block-prints – whilst maximising its spectacular position hugging Devon’s unspoilt coastline.
The facilities boast both indoor and clifftop outdoor swimming pools, jacuzzi, treatment rooms, and a charming on-site cinema. Choose your adventure: loft suites with exceptional sea views or family-friendly self-catering cottages sleeping four to six guests.
It’s luxury with personality.
Watersmeet Hotel – Overlooking Woolacombe Bay
Awards exist for a reason. When Condé Nast Johansen named Watersmeet Hotel the Best Waterside Hotel in the UK and Ireland, they weren’t just recognising a property – they were acknowledging North Devon’s premier coastal sanctuary.
This elegant retreat features 28 individually decorated bedrooms and suites. Most offer spectacular panoramic views taking in Combesgate Beach, Lundy Island and Baggy Point. The architectural design doesn’t fight the environment – it embraces it, ensuring every space offers guests a window to the stunning seascape beyond.
White wooden balconies where you can sit with your morning coffee, watching magnificent sunsets paint Woolacombe Bay in gold. The two-AA-rosette restaurant serves fresh, classic dishes prepared by a dedicated team of chefs, with those breathtaking coastal views as the perfect accompaniment.
Some experiences can’t be replicated. This is one of them.
Salcombe Harbour Hotel – Waterfront luxury with spa
Right on the edge of the Exe Estuary, Salcombe Harbour Hotel combines chic interiors with knockout views of one of Devon’s most famous sailing towns. Most of the rooms face directly onto the water, with balconies designed for sunset glasses of rosé.
What sets it apart? The HarSPA with its hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and Temple Spa treatments – a perfect antidote to bracing sea air. The Jetty restaurant champions local seafood, giving you Salcombe crab and day-boat fish straight off the coast you’re overlooking.
A true spa hotel with a beachfront feel.
Saunton Sands Hotel – Art Deco glamour with Atlantic views
An icon of North Devon’s golden coastline, Saunton Sands is a proper Art Deco treasure overlooking the vast sweep of Saunton Beach and Braunton Burrows. The interiors nod to 1930s glamour, while the spa is unapologetically modern with marine-inspired treatments. Families love the pool and kids’ clubs, while couples slip into champagne bars and clifftop hot tubs. If you’re craving coastal drama paired with retro chic, this is your stop.
Not far away you’ll also find the Tarka Trail, making this an excellent base for cycling and walking holidays.
Countryside Retreats: Rustic and Relaxing
Step away from the captivating coastline, and Devon’s verdant countryside reveals equally enticing secrets. These rustic retreats strike that perfect balance – tranquillity meets character, authentic rural charm meets modern comfort. And the best part is you’re still just a short drive from Devon’s numerous attractions.
Sometimes the most memorable stays happen away from the crowds.
The Bull in Totnes – Historic charm with a modern twist
The home town of Tanner Bates - Totnes has always been known for its independent spirit, and The Bull fits perfectly into that story. This Grade II-listed coaching inn has been lovingly restored by Geetie Singh-Watson, the UK’s first organic pub pioneer. Geetie has created a boutique stay that blends Totnes’ bohemian character with a commitment to sustainability.
The interiors nod to the building’s 15th-century heritage while embracing bold modern design, think reclaimed timbers, vintage lighting, and art-filled walls. Upstairs, stylish bedrooms offer locally sourced comforts, from organic linens to handcrafted furniture. Downstairs, the restaurant champions organic, seasonal produce with an ethos that reflects Totnes’ vibrant food culture. It’s a stay that feels rooted in both history and forward-thinking ideals.
Sandridge Barton – Wine estate living on the River Dart
On the banks of the Dart, Sandridge Barton is a destination in itself. Alongside its award-winning wines, the estate offers boutique accommodation in converted stone cottages and barns, perfect for guests who want to immerse themselves in vineyard life.
The recently opened restaurant, Roam, takes the food offering to new heights. Expect seasonal, produce-led menus paired naturally with Sandridge Barton wines, all served in a contemporary dining space overlooking rolling vines. Whether you’re here for a tasting tour, a long weekend by the river, or simply to discover a fresh angle on Devon’s food-and-drink scene, Sandridge Barton blends rural escape with culinary sophistication.
Fowlescombe Farm – A regenerative retreat with rave reviews
For those seeking a true farm-to-fork experience, Fowlescombe Farm delivers something exceptional. Nestled in the South Hams, this regenerative farm has become one of Devon’s most talked-about escapes, with glowing reviews celebrating both its setting and its ethos.
Accommodation ranges from boutique rooms to countryside retreats that place guests right in the heart of the working farm. Days start with breakfasts of produce reared and grown on site, while evenings can be spent enjoying seasonal feasts or simply soaking up the rural tranquillity. Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here, it’s a way of life, woven into everything from farming practices to the menus. Add in the warm, personal welcome, and Fowlescombe feels less like a hotel stay and more like being invited into a new way of living.
Weeke Barton – Grade II-listed charm in Dartmoor
Nestled deep in the Teign Valley, this traditional Dartmoor longhouse tells a story of transformation. What was once a working farm building now blends rustic comfort with contemporary decor, creating something quite special. Recognised in The Times Travel Top 100 Places to Stay in the UK 2025, Weeke Barton offers six gorgeous en-suite rooms, each featuring sheep-skinned window seats that frame five acres of gardens and rolling countryside.
Here’s what sets this place apart: the Grade II-listed building hasn’t lost its soul. Exposed stonework and original features create authentic character, while modern comforts ensure you won’t sacrifice luxury for history.
That snug bar is pure magic. Low ceilings, wooden panelling, and it operates on an honesty system. Bio-dynamic wines, English sparkling wine from the neighbouring vineyard, Dartmoor botanical Gin. The dining room continues the charm with individual slate-topped tables and a woodburning stove – perfect for savouring locally sourced, organic breakfasts.
Whitehouse – Georgian elegance near the coast
Tucked away in the South Devon village of Chillington sits this family-run gem – a beautiful Georgian house that’s received a stylish mid-century makeover. Six spacious rooms showcase the perfect marriage of contemporary interiors and period charm. Think luxury amenities like deluge showers, baths “big enough for two”, and complimentary organic provisions.
The sheltered garden offers those quiet corners where time seems to slow down. The book-filled sitting room? Leather sofas and a fireplace for cooler evenings. Location-wise, you’ve hit the sweet spot – ideally positioned for exploring both the Devonshire coast and Dartmoor, with Slapton Sands, Salcombe, and Dartmouth all within easy reach.
The Pig at Combe – Farm-to-table in the hills
This honey-hued Elizabethan beauty nestles in East Devon’s Otter Valley, just 15 minutes from beaches and surrounded by cider farms and English vineyards. The Grade I-listed manor house houses 35 spacious bedrooms, including five Stream Wagons and three cosy cottages beside a babbling brook.
But the real magic happens in those three walled Kitchen Gardens.
The “25-mile menu” isn’t just a catchy phrase – 80% of fresh ingredients actually come from local suppliers or the hotel’s own gardens. Each morning, the kitchen garden team conducts harvests that determine the day’s dishes. It’s farm-to-table dining at its most authentic, and has earned the property a reputation as much for fine dining as it has for luxury rooms.
Fancy something more relaxed? The Folly serves wood-fired eats in a garden setting – perfect after you’ve explored the 3,500 acres of rolling hills surrounding this countryside retreat.
Bovey Castle – Grandeur in Dartmoor National Park
If boutique means indulgence, Bovey Castle ticks every box. This luxury country hotel sits in 275 acres of rolling Dartmoor landscape, complete with golf course, spa, falconry centre and even off-road driving experiences. Rooms range from classic manor bedrooms to self-catering lodges for groups. The Great Western Grill restaurant showcases local produce, and the oak-panelled bar is as traditional as they come.
Staying here feels like stepping into a period drama – with Wi-Fi and cocktails.
Nearby, the Tamar Valley makes for spectacular day trips, and walkers will appreciate easy access to Exmoor National Park for hiking trails and sweeping views.
Glazebrook House Hotel – Quirky design meets countryside charm
Hidden near South Brent, Glazebrook House is boutique eccentricity at its finest. Designed with imaginative flair by Timothy Oulton, each of the nine rooms riffs on Alice in Wonderland themes – think bold lighting, eclectic art, and one-off furniture pieces.
It’s a feast for design lovers who like their countryside retreats less chocolate-box and more playful. The restaurant leans heavily on seasonal Devon produce, plated up with as much creativity as the interiors.
Family-Friendly Boutique Hotels in Devon
Planning a family getaway that keeps everyone happy? The good news is Devon’s boutique scene has cracked the code – stylish accommodation that works brilliantly for guests of all ages.
These places get it. No compromising on comfort or character just because you’re travelling with little ones.
Cary Arms – Coastal cottages and spa for all ages
Here’s where families discover the perfect “home from home” experience beside the sea. Six traditionally restored fishermen’s cottages create the ideal setting for family breaks. Think outdoor dining terraces where kids can run free, gardens perfect for games, barbecues for those lazy seaside evenings, and spacious sitting rooms with fireplaces when Devon’s weather turns moody.
Families choose between cottages ranging from 2–5 bedrooms, each one reflecting authentic coastal style and genuine comfort. Dog lovers take note – three cottages roll out the red carpet for four-legged family members, complete with dog beds and bowls.
The real magic happens when families access all Cary Arms facilities. That spa’s hydrotherapy pool becomes a haven after busy days exploring Babbacombe Bay and the wider South Devon coastline.
The Seagate – Nautical charm and nearby attractions
This charming 17th-century Appledore gem genuinely welcomes families with open arms. The Seagate’s family rooms provide that perfect seaside staycation base, with Feature Comfy and select Comfy sea view rooms designed specifically with families in mind.
Here’s what makes parents smile: their child-friendly pricing. Little ones under two stay free, while children aged 2–14 stay for just £15 per night.
Step outside and family adventures await. Crabbing on The Quay, boat trips to Instow, Devon’s famous Hockings ice cream, or those traditional cream teas (cream first, naturally!). You’re also not far from Smeaton’s Tower in Plymouth – a lighthouse turned landmark that families love to explore.
Gara Rock Cottages – Self-catering with sea views
Gara Rock’s self-catering residences strike that perfect balance between family independence and luxury comfort. Three different layouts across one, two or three floors accommodate between four to six guests in bright, stylish spaces.
Each residence features fully equipped modern kitchens with integrated appliances, alongside those light and airy open-plan living areas that families love. Family-friendly features shine through master bedrooms with stylish ensuites, while most residences boast sea views from windows, balconies or gardens.
The best part? Families enjoy Gara Rock’s exceptional facilities – indoor and outdoor pools, cinema room, spa and restaurant.
Because sometimes parents deserve a little luxury too.
Soar Mill Cove Hotel – Family-run comfort by the sea
Just outside Salcombe, Soar Mill Cove delivers that rare mix of luxury and laid-back family atmosphere. Owned by the Makepeace family since the 1970s, it offers spacious suites, self-catering villas, a saltwater swimming pool, and tennis courts.
The real joy? You’re a short stroll from one of Devon’s most secluded sandy beaches. Dogs are not just allowed but positively encouraged, and children are treated like VIPs with activity packs and menus tailored for younger tastes.
City Chic: Stylish Boutique Hotels in Exeter
Sometimes you crave the countryside. Sometimes you need the coast. But occasionally? You want the sophistication that only a historic cathedral city can deliver.
EXETER
Devon’s cultural heart offers something the rolling hills and dramatic cliffs simply can’t – that perfect blend of urban sophistication and authentic Devon character. These city-based boutique retreats don’t just provide convenient access to Exeter’s cultural attractions. They are attractions in themselves.
Don’t miss Exeter Cathedral nearby, or a day trip downriver to Powderham Castle, two of the city’s cultural highlights.
Southernhay House – Adults-only elegance in the city
Eleven individually designed rooms. That’s it.
This Grade II listed Georgian townhouse refuses to feel crowded because it simply doesn’t allow it. Positioned near Exeter’s prime attractions, Southernhay House strikes that delicate balance between period character and modern comfort – perfect for romantic getaways where you want to feel special.
Adults-only exclusivity creates something magical here. The intimate atmosphere flows from the low-lit cocktail bar through to the grand dining area, where conversations happen in whispers and glances.
Here’s what surprised us: this elegant escape takes sustainability seriously. We’re talking strict no single-use plastic policy – cruelty-free toiletries come full-sized, spring water arrives in proper glass bottles, and milk gets delivered fresh daily. Style with substance, that’s rare.
The cocktail menu deserves its own mention. Original creations range from the cleverly named non-alcoholic Millennial Martini to the potent Orientalist – each one crafted with the same attention to detail as the rooms themselves.
The City Gate – Affordable luxury in central Exeter
Five minutes from Exeter Central train station. Twenty individually designed bedrooms above a charming pub.
Each room combines homely touches with proper luxury amenities. Think uber-comfy beds that you’ll remember weeks later, rainfall showers that make you want to extend your stay, and carefully curated minibars stocked with things you actually want.
Business travellers love the central location. Leisure visitors adore the character. Sun-seekers worship the gorgeous courtyard garden – especially when cocktails are involved during those glorious summer months.
Rose & Crown – Village charm with modern comfort
Technically it’s in Yealmpton village, not Exeter, but trust us on this one.
The Rose & Crown houses eight en-suite boutique-style bedrooms in a three-storey period house that sits adjacent to the pub. The high-standard renovation blends comfort with character so seamlessly, you’ll forget which century you’re in.
Dog owners, take note: specially selected pet-friendly rooms (£15 per night supplement) come with ‘Proper Dog’ hampers containing treats, tennis balls, and – wait for it – canine-friendly beer. Because apparently, your four-legged friend deserves a proper holiday too.
The shared garden provides that tranquil space where all guests can unwind, regardless of species.
Sometimes the best city experiences happen just outside the city limits.
Hotel Indigo Exeter – Contemporary flair in the city centre
This newcomer brings a fresh, urban vibe to Exeter’s boutique scene. Hotel Indigo is a design-led property where every floor takes inspiration from the city’s history – from the wool trade to local folklore.
Rooms come with Hypnos beds, rainfall showers, and playful décor that feels stylish without being stuffy. The rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the cathedral city, and the restaurant champions seasonal South West ingredients with flair.
A great base if you fancy a day trip to River Cottage in Axminster – one of the most famous food destinations in South West England.
Conclusion
Devon stands as something special – a boutique hotel lover’s dream where every property tells its own story. You’ve journeyed through hidden gems perched on dramatic coastlines, discovered sanctuaries tucked away in verdant countryside, and explored elegant urban retreats. Each offers something uniquely theirs, from South Sands’ barefoot luxury to the grandeur of Bovey Castle.
What makes these places extraordinary? Their commitment to authentic local experiences runs deeper than surface charm. Farm-to-table dining at The Pig at Combe. Dog-friendly welcome packs at South Sands. Design eccentricity at Glazebrook House. These aren’t marketing gestures – they’re genuine touches that transform ordinary stays into memories you’ll carry home.
Family travellers will love destinations like Soar Mill Cove and The Seagate, where child-friendly pricing and kid-friendly activities open Devon’s magic to everyone. Couples seeking romance might find themselves drawn to Southernhay House’s adults-only intimacy, or clinking glasses on Saunton Sands’ Art Deco terrace overlooking the Atlantic.
The choice now sits with you.
Maybe it’s the sound of waves crashing beneath your clifftop room at Gara Rock that calls to you. Perhaps the rustic charm of a Grade II-listed Dartmoor longhouse speaks to something deeper. Either way, Devon’s boutique hotels offer something chain establishments never can – they’re gateways into Devon’s soul.
Your perfect Devon escape waits, promising comfort woven with character, and connections to this beloved corner of South West England that generic hospitality simply cannot match.
Frequently asked questions about Devon’s boutique hotels
What makes Devon’s boutique hotels unique?
Devon’s boutique hotels offer a perfect blend of local character, exceptional service, and personalised experiences. They showcase the region’s diverse landscapes, from coastal retreats with sandy beaches to countryside escapes near Exmoor National Park, providing amenities and fine dining options that highlight Devon’s distinctive personality.
Are there family-friendly boutique hotels in Devon?
Yes, several boutique hotels in Devon cater to families. Soar Mill Cove and Cary Arms offer family-sized cottages and activities by the sea, while Gara Rock Cottages provide self-catering residences with access to facilities like indoor and outdoor pools, a cinema room, and a spa – perfect for a walking holiday base.
Can I find dog-friendly boutique accommodations in Devon?
Absolutely. Many of Devon’s boutique hotels welcome four-legged companions. South Sands Hotel provides welcome packs with treats, blankets, and bowls. The Rose & Crown offers pet-friendly guest rooms with ‘Proper Dog’ hampers, and Soar Mill Cove treats dogs as warmly as their owners.
What dining experiences can I expect at Devon’s boutique hotels?
Many boutique hotels in Devon pride themselves on their dining. The Pig at Combe features a “25-mile menu” where at least 80% of fresh ingredients come from local suppliers or the hotel’s own gardens. Others, like Watersmeet Hotel, boast AA-rosette restaurants with stunning coastal views, while Glazebrook House serves seasonal dishes with playful creativity. For food lovers, River Cottage in South West England is also a nearby pilgrimage spot.
Are there any adults-only boutique hotels in Exeter?
Yes, Southernhay House in Exeter is an adults-only boutique hotel. This Grade II listed Georgian townhouse offers eleven individually designed guest rooms, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways. Its location is also ideal for visiting Exeter Cathedral or Powderham Castle.
Which boutique hotels in Devon offer spa facilities?
Several standouts feature spa experiences. Gara Rock and Salcombe Harbour Hotel both have hydrotherapy pools and treatment rooms with sea views. Bovey Castle in Dartmoor offers a luxurious spa alongside its golf course and outdoor pursuits, while Saunton Sands Hotel’s Source Spa & Wellness is one of North Devon’s most indulgent spa hotels.
Are there boutique hotels near popular walking or cycling routes?
Yes – Devon is perfect for outdoor lovers. Saunton Sands makes a great base for exploring the Tarka Trail, while properties near the Tamar Valley or Exmoor National Park offer access to some of the best walking holiday routes in South West England.
Which landmarks and attractions can I visit near Devon’s boutique hotels?
Devon’s boutique hotels often sit close to some of the region’s best-loved sights. Guests staying in Exeter are within easy reach of Exeter Cathedral and Powderham Castle. Along the coast, families in Appledore can make a day trip to Plymouth’s historic Smeaton’s Tower, while walkers near Braunton and Barnstaple can cycle or stroll the Tarka Trail. Many countryside retreats also provide easy access to the Tamar Valley and Exmoor National Park, making them perfect bases for combining luxury with local exploration.
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