The Commodore Hotel in Instow stands out for its extraordinary waterfront location, offering stunning panoramic views of the Taw and Torridge estuaries. Guests consistently praise the hotel's picturesque scenery, reminiscent of the French Riviera and its convenience to local attractions such as Bideford, Barnstaple and the North Devon Yacht Club. This charming setting, complemented by friendly and efficient staff, enhances the overall guest experience.
Breakfast at The Commodore Hotel is highly regarded, noted for its quality and variety with a plentiful spread that includes both buffet and individually cooked options. Despite minor comments on the lack of fruit and cereals and some items being kept warm, the excellent service and delightful presentation make breakfast a memorable highlight for guests.
Dinner also receives high praise, often described as superb and of outstanding quality. The lovely restaurant and lounge facilities enhance the dining experience with notable mentions of a fabulous in-room menu and wonderful Sunday lunch. Although some guests desire more flexible evening meal options and a less rigid menu, the overall dining experience is largely positive due to the well-prepared dishes and attentive service.
Guestrooms are appreciated for their cleanliness and comfort, featuring stylish décor and beautiful balconies with sea views. While some rooms are small and older with a few guests noting disturbances from emergency exit lights and weak WiFi, upgrades to larger sea-view rooms are particularly well-received. The hotel's commitment to high standards of hygiene ensures a comfortable stay for all visitors.
The staff at The Commodore Hotel are frequently commended for being friendly, helpful and attentive. The management team's dedication to exceptional service significantly contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, although a few criticisms of the reception staff indicate room for improvement. Nevertheless, the overall impression is one of excellent customer service and hospitality.
Free parking is a notable convenience with a large car park that generally receives positive feedback for its ample spaces, despite some challenges with tight spots for larger vehicles.
While WiFi connectivity at the hotel is inconsistent with several guests expressing a need for faster and more reliable internet, the excellent service provided by the staff often compensates for these technological shortcomings.
Bed comfort receives mixed feedback; although many found the beds comfortable, others found the double beds small and occasionally encountered issues with mattress quality and creaky frames. Softer pillows were suggested to enhance the sleeping experience.
Overall, The Commodore Hotel offers a delightful stay characterized by its unbeatable location, excellent dining options, spotless rooms and a dedicated staff, making it a cherished destination for travelers who value both beauty and convenience.
The Waterfront Inn enjoys an outstanding reputation for offering exceptional accommodation and amenities. Nestled almost directly on the seafront, its location is frequently praised by guests for providing direct access to the beach and being close to local facilities, shops and restaurants. The scenic views and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for both beach lovers and those looking to explore the South West Coast Path.
Visitors commend the exemplary cleanliness across all areas of the hotel. Rooms are described as modern, spacious and well-furnished with particular attention given to family suites that cater well to both small and large families. Each room is meticulously maintained and features modern amenities, offering a comfortable and restful environment. The comfortable beds, available in various sizes and the quiet atmosphere contribute to a peaceful night’s sleep.
The dining experiences at The Waterfront Inn receive high marks, particularly for breakfast and dinner. The breakfast menu is celebrated for its variety, freshness and quality, while the dinner options, including the highly praised Sunday carvery and gluten-free choices, leave guests satisfied with the portions and value for money. Although a few minor issues were noted, such as occasional procedural hiccups with meal service, the overall dining quality remains a significant highlight.
The staff at The Waterfront Inn are regularly described as friendly, helpful and accommodating, going above and beyond to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay. This excellent service extends from the front desk to the housekeeping and dining areas, contributing significantly to the welcoming atmosphere of the hotel.
Another notable feature is the convenient and secure on-site parking, which guests find spacious and well-maintained, adding to the overall ease and comfort of their stay. Combined with the hotel’s clean and modern presentation, excellent dining and outstanding staff, The Waterfront Inn stands out as a top choice for a beach-centric and luxurious getaway.
Corner House Guest House, nestled in the heart of Bideford, offers a truly delightful experience for visitors. Its prime location is ideal for exploring the vibrant town center and accessing nearby attractions like the Lundy ferry and South West Coast Path. Despite its central position, the guest house provides a tranquil retreat, enhanced by excellent parking arrangements and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The breakfast at Corner House Guest House is a standout feature, renowned for its exceptional taste and quality. Guests rave about the delicious options, from the classic Full English to exquisite vegetarian selections, all prepared with attention to detail and top-notch ingredients. This delightful breakfast experience, praised for being both hearty and satisfying, adds significant value to any stay.
The rooms at Corner House Guest House are frequently commended for their comfort, cleanliness, and modern amenities. Guests enjoy spacious, tidy accommodations with cozy atmospheres and excellent bathrooms. The guest house maintains a high standard of cleanliness and attention to detail, ensuring that every area is spotless and well-organized.
Visitors also praise the exceptional hospitality provided by the staff, particularly hosts Steve and Mel, whose warm and friendly demeanor creates a welcoming, family-like environment. Their local knowledge enhances the stay, providing guests with useful insights into Bideford's dining and entertainment spots.
While parking requires some initial guidance, Corner House Guest House offers convenient options nearby, accommodating most guests' needs. The comfortable, well-appointed beds further contribute to the overall restful experience, making it a top choice for travelers seeking relaxation and comfort.
Overall, Corner House Guest House stands out for its superb location, outstanding breakfast, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional hospitality, promising a memorable stay in Bideford.