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Summary of reviewsThe Royal Castle Hotel in Dartmouth is a treasure trove of historic charm and modern comfort, offering guests a uniquely enchanting experience in a prime location. Nestled in the heart of Dartmouth, the hotel provides mesmerizing views of the River Dart and the picturesque marina, conveniently positioning guests for easy exploration of the town's rich heritage and vibrant life. Its character-filled setting is enhanced by the welcoming and attentive staff, who contribute significantly to the warm and inviting atmosphere.
Guests consistently praise the delicious and abundant breakfast offerings, which cater to diverse tastes and start the day on a high note, accompanied by stunning riverside views. The hotel's dining experiences, whether at the restaurant, bar, or grill, are similarly acclaimed for their high-quality and reasonably priced meals, making each meal a delightful experience. The charm of the cozy bar with an open fire adds to the restaurant's enjoyable ambiance.
Accommodations at The Royal Castle Hotel blend historical allure with modern comforts. Spacious, beautifully decorated rooms promise comfort and charm, with many offering breathtaking views of the river or harbor. The sumptuous beds and well-appointed bathrooms enhance the overall stay, while the hotel's historical quirks and clean, cozy rooms further contribute to its appeal.
The Royal Castle Hotel is celebrated not only for its people-friendly services but also for its dog-friendly amenities. Pets receive a warm welcome, complete with thoughtful extras like welcome packs and treats, ensuring that four-legged guests are just as pampered as their owners.
Overall, the Royal Castle Hotel offers a memorable stay characterized by extraordinary hospitality, historical charm, and a picturesque setting, making it a standout choice for visitors to Dartmouth. Despite minor challenges related to accessibility and occasional service delays, the hotel's extensive charm and wonderful service leave a lasting positive impression on its guests. Show more
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Hotel near Golf Courses
While this hotel does not have a golf course on site, it is a good option for golfers who want to be close to Dartmouth Golf and Country Club.
Historic Hotel
Located on the Quay in Dartmouth, the Royal Castle Hotel offers a historic stay in a prime location. Its long-standing presence and traditional features provide a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history.
Dog Friendly Hotel
The Royal Castle Hotel welcomes dogs. Details specific to dog amenities are not available in the provided data.
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Located on The Quay, this hotel offers proximity to Dartmouth's nightlife. The area features a variety of pubs and bars, making it a convenient choice for guests interested in evening entertainment.
3-Star Hotel
This hotel has a nice location overlooking the River Dart. The rooms are cozy with large comfortable beds. This hotel is dog friendly with easy access to a park where they can run free.
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Free Wi-Fi
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Room Types
Single RoomRooms overlook either the enclosed central courtyard of the hotel or the town, ideal for a comfortable stay. lease note that all bedrooms start on the second floor and the hotel does not have a lift.
Double or Twin Room with River ViewThese rooms over look the River Dart. Watch the world go by in our charming river view rooms with individual characterful features and double or king sized bed.
Double Room with River ViewThese rooms over look the River Dart. Watch the world go by in our charming river view rooms with individual characterful features and double or king sized bed.
Double RoomLocated at the rear of the property, these rooms are classically decorated for a comfortable stay.
Family Room with River ViewThis family room boasts a river view. The room offers a radio and TV. The majority of the rooms have spa baths.
When making your reservation, please use the comments field to inform the hotel if you would like a spa bath.
Please note that the hotel does not have a lift and all bedrooms start on the second floor.
Family RoomThis room offers a radio and TV.
There is air conditioning in selected rooms.
Double or Twin RoomThis double/twin room is located at the rear or face into the hotel. The bedroom offers a radio and a TV. There is air conditioning in selected rooms.
Please be advised that all bedrooms start on the second floor and the hotel does not have a lift.
Standard Double RoomLocated on the 4th floor, our attic double rooms offer a comfortable stay. Please be aware that there is no lift in the hotel.
Standard Double RoomThese rooms overlook the enclosed central courtyard of the hotel. Rooms are traditionally decorated with a king bed.
Double Room with River ViewThis double room features a electric kettle, view and tea/coffee maker.
Located on the 4th floor, with views over the River Dart. Please be aware that there is no lift in the hotel.
Guest Reviews
8.4
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of beautiful Dartmouth, The Royal Castle Hotel boasts an exceptional location that captivates guests with mesmerizing views and convenient access to local attractions. Overlooking the serene River Dart and picturesque marina, this historic establishment is celebrated for its charming character and unique ambiance. The hotel's prime position offers easy exploration of Dartmouth’s rich heritage and vibrant town life, including shops, pubs, the harbor front, and the town ferry. Guests are continually enchanted by the splendid views of the river and harbor from their rooms, enhancing the overall experience of their stay.
The traditional charm of the beautifully maintained old building adds to the distinctiveness of the hotel's location. Visitors appreciate not only the aesthetic appeal but also the warm, welcoming atmosphere provided by friendly and attentive staff. Moreover, breakfast with river views consistently receives praise for being a delightful morning start. For those traveling with pets, the hotel extends a particularly warm welcome to canine companions, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
With its prime spot in the bustling center of Dartmouth, The Royal Castle Hotel offers a cozy retreat that successfully blends historical allure with modern comforts, making it an ideal hub for travelers eager to explore the South Devon coast.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Royal Castle Hotel has garnered considerable praise from its guests, who commend the remarkable quality and extensive selection offered each morning. Located in a scenic setting, the breakfast room offers stunning views over the River Dart and the harbor, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. The variety of options, including both traditional English breakfasts and vegetarian selections, caters to diverse tastes, featuring freshly cooked dishes and high-quality ingredients. Many reviews highlight the exceptional service provided by friendly, accommodating, and efficient staff, which adds to the pleasant morning ambiance. However, a few guests did note inconsistencies in food preparation and occasional service delays. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus applauds the breakfast as a standout feature of the hotel, often described as delicious, plentiful, and a perfect start to one's day. The Royal Castle Hotel’s commitment to a memorable breakfast experience, complemented by its beautiful surroundings and attentive service, leaves a lasting positive impression on its visitors.
Dinner
The dining experience at The Royal Castle Hotel consistently receives commendable accolades from guests. Many appreciate the excellent and delicious meals served, whether choosing to dine in the restaurant, bar, or grill. Standout dishes, such as chicken tagliatelle and chorizo in creamy sauce, enhance the dining experience. Breakfast selections, particularly the hogs pudding with a full English breakfast, are noteworthy, with guests praising the freshly cooked offerings.
Attentive and friendly staff contribute to the pleasant atmosphere, ensuring diners feel welcome and well-attended. The setting, including the cozy bar with an open fire, adds to the enjoyable ambiance of mealtime. Sunday lunch and evening meals are highlighted as delightful, with guests frequently describing the food quality as excellent and reasonably priced.
However, not every dining aspect is flawless; some guests report occasional delays in service or a limited menu due to staffing issues. Nonetheless, overall impressions of the food and service remain largely positive, with many guests choosing to dine at the hotel multiple times during their stay, relishing the superb dishes offered.
Rooms
The Royal Castle Hotel offers an experience blending historic charm with modern comforts, nestled in the heart of Dartmouth. Guests consistently praise the spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, many of which offer stunning views of the river or harbor. Comfort seems to be paramount, with remarks on large, cozy beds and well-appointed bathrooms, some featuring luxurious amenities like whirlpool baths and quality toiletries. The building's unique character and charming quirks are often highlighted, adding to the overall appeal of the stay.
While some rooms exhibit a slightly faded charm, this aspect seems to enhance the overall historic feel for many visitors. Cleanliness and comfort are recurring themes, with rooms described as well-furnished, spotless, and adequately equipped with conveniences like air conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities. Staff friendliness and attentiveness add to the positive experience, making guests feel welcome and well-cared-for.
However, a few guests have mentioned minor issues such as noise near extractor fans or the challenges posed by the hotel's quirky layout, including steep staircases and small attic spaces with low ceilings. Despite these occasional downsides, the hotel's prime location, beautiful views, and historic ambiance leave a lasting impression of a memorable stay in Dartmouth.
Beds
The Royal Castle Hotel boasts a reputation for providing guests with exceptional comfort, particularly in its bedding arrangements. Visitors frequently highlight the array of plush, comfy beds, complemented by super comfortable pillows that enhance the overall sleep experience. Many guests appreciate the super king size beds and spacious rooms, which allow plenty of room to move around and enjoy the lovely views, especially those overlooking the river.
A standout feature is the elegant four-poster beds, found in select rooms, which many guests describe as sumptuous and romantic. These beds contribute a unique charm to the hotel's ambiance, making guests feel special and providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. For those seeking a non-chain-like experience complete with personal touches, the hotel's bedding certainly fits the bill.
While the majority of feedback focuses on comfort, a few guests noted beds that were small or had overly soft mattresses, indicating room for improvement in some areas. Nevertheless, the positive reviews vastly outweigh the negatives, portraying The Royal Castle Hotel as a comforting haven with gorgeously comfortable beds. From lovely big towels to great showers, the overall room amenities are also praised, enhancing the hotel’s appeal.
Cleanliness
The Royal Castle Hotel, with its charming historical setting, consistently receives high marks for cleanliness, as highlighted by guests. Visitors frequently describe their rooms as very clean, comfortable, and well-appointed. The hotel's housekeeping seems meticulous, with many noting rooms as spotlessly clean and superclean. Crisp white bed linens and towels add to the overall fresh feel. Guests also appreciate the well-stocked hospitality trays in the rooms.
Despite the primarily positive feedback on cleanliness, some areas fall short and could use attention, such as certain bathrooms needing updates and occasional lapses like dust on lampshades. However, these shortcomings are often overshadowed by the overall neatness and charm the hotel provides. Friendly staff greatly enhance the experience by maintaining a welcoming and tidy environment. The location, with great views, adds to the allure, creating a delightful atmosphere for an enjoyable stay.
Staff
The Royal Castle Hotel in Dartmouth receives overwhelmingly positive praise for its exceptional staff, who significantly enhance the guest experience. Visitors consistently highlight the team's friendliness, efficiency, and accommodation, with many describing the staff as welcoming and engaging. Both managerial and front-line staff, including reception and breakfast hosts, receive accolades for their professionalism and attentiveness. Guests appreciate the staff's readiness to assist, noting that nothing seems too much trouble for them. The overall hospitality leaves a lasting impression, with guests feeling well-cared for throughout their visit. Many reviews specifically mention individual staff members by name, reflecting personal and memorable interactions. The hotel's staff are described as going above and beyond, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the hotel's central location and unique charm. Whether accommodating early arrivals or providing local advice, the staff's dedication to excellent service is evident. This commitment to hospitality ensures guests enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable stay, fostering a strong recommendation for future visitors.
Family
The Royal Castle Hotel stands out as a welcoming destination with its exceptional hospitality and thoughtful amenities. For families traveling with dogs, the hotel offers a delightful experience by allowing pets to stay and providing thoughtful gestures like a welcome pack and a dog goody bag, ensuring four-legged companions are as pampered as their owners. The attentive staff are frequently praised for their professionalism and kindness, always eager to assist and create a pleasant atmosphere for all guests. The hotel also features a lovely ambiance catering to families, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone. Breakfast at the hotel is a highlight, with a great selection to start the day on a positive note.
3 Star
The Royal Castle Hotel in Dartmouth captures the charm and character of an old building, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere with exceptional cleanliness despite its age. The hotel is praised for its character and the excellent service provided by the staff, which sets it apart as the best place to stay in Dartmouth. It is delightfully different from the standard chain hotels, offering amenities that exceed expectations for its class, occasionally evoking sentiments that it should be rated higher than three stars. However, it's important to note that the hotel may not be suitable for elderly guests due to steep and windy stairs. Some visitors encountered issues such as an undesirable view and noise from an extractor fan, but these concerns were largely overshadowed by the location and service. While a bit of a refresh is needed, the hotel remains a gem in a great location, promising a wonderful experience overall.
Accessible
The Royal Castle Hotel, a charming historical establishment, captivates guests with its unique character, stemming from its iconic architecture and storied past. However, this charm comes with some accessibility challenges, particularly for guests with mobility issues. The absence of a lift makes navigating the hotel difficult for some, as the staircases are numerous and can be steep. Guests are advised to book accessible rooms if stairs present a challenge. The hotel's creaky and uneven floors, reflective of its historical nature, contribute to its allure but may pose difficulties for those who are unsteady on their feet. Overall, while the Royal Castle Hotel offers an authentic and character-filled experience, it may not be the most convenient option for all guests due to its structural limitations.
Historic
Nestled in the heart of Dartmouth is The Royal Castle Hotel, a delightful fusion of history and comfort that transports visitors to a bygone era of charm and character. Enveloped in centuries-old heritage, the hotel stands proudly as a historic icon from the 1500s, featuring enchanting architectural quirks like wonky floors and hidden priest holes in the rooms.
Guests revel in the building's authenticity and original features, from venerable furnishings to historic artwork that adorns the public spaces. The hotel's commitment to retaining its traditional elegance is a refreshing contrast to the modern glass and chrome structures that dominate today's landscape. Its location offers picturesque views, allowing visitors to enjoy magical breakfasts that overlook the stunning harbor.
The Royal Castle Hotel exudes a unique character that many find to be quaint and slightly quirky, attributing this to the age-old charm inherent in its structure. Despite its historic pedigree, guests note that the rooms are notably comfortable and clean, providing a relaxing retreat amidst the ambient charm.
With friendly and helpful staff, the hotel ensures that its deep, unspoilt history is matched by a welcoming atmosphere. Candle-lit corners, open fires, and a historic pub add to the cozy ambiance, making every stay a memorable immersion into both the spirited past and the present-day comfort.
Dog Friendly
The Royal Castle Hotel consistently receives high praise for its exceptional dog-friendly amenities and services, making it a standout choice for pet owners looking to travel with their furry companions. Pets are warmly welcomed by the attentive and accommodating staff, who go out of their way to ensure dogs are treated as cherished guests. Dogs receive special attention with welcome packs that often include treats, toys, bowls, and even dog beer, contributing to a memorable stay for both dogs and their owners.
Rooms at the hotel are thoughtfully equipped with pet necessities such as beds and blankets, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for pets. The staff's enthusiasm for hosting pets is evident as they offer thoughtful gestures like sausages for breakfast and help with carrying meals to tables when guests have their dogs on the lead.
This hotel distinguishes itself as one of the best for dog-friendly accommodations, with a variety of delightful extras such as gift bags and hessian bags filled with treats and essentials. The charming property, paired with its convenient central location, adds to the relaxing atmosphere that guests appreciate. The Royal Castle Hotel is not only pet-friendly but also has a rich historical charm, making it a beloved option for travelers who want to experience a warm, welcoming environment that caters uniquely to both humans and their canine companions.
No, The Royal Castle Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Royal Castle Hotel.
Yes, The Royal Castle Hotel welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Royal Castle Hotel.