Well worth the detour off the beaten path down winding lanes, we arrived at this small, cosy hotel to find a big, comfortable bed and cuisine to die for. Though the bar has been converted into for-sale apartments, the restaurant remains intact, and owner Martin Petch turns out the most sublime evening meals and fresh breakfasts. We spent a week in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, and Woody Bay was the highlight. Dinner even topped the acclaimed Castle Hotel in Taunton.

The hotel is ideal for weary walkers or tourists who want an idyllic escape from the bustle of nearby Lynton and Lynmouth. Close to the South-West Coast Path and picturesque Heddon valley, all the bedrooms plus the dining room and lounge have views over secluded Woody Bay out to sea.

I just stayed in the Woody Bay Hotel for a few days with a friend, and we were really happy to be exploring Exmoor from there. It's at the most spectacular spot above the sea, with various walking trails starting right on it's doorstep, and only a few kilometers from Lynton if you are looking for a little more exitement. Colette makes you feel right at home without being too present, and yes: the diner that Martin cooks every night is absolutely wonderful.

If you like to get a time off, go and stay there!

We had a nice few days here - its a small hotel well off the beaten path - in the dark on the way there we took a wrong turning (the satnav got a bit confused) and nearly ended up on the beach by mistake.

The owners are very welcoming as are their beautiful cats Rupert and Tigger. We went DBB and ate very well - the cooked breakfast really sets you up for the day.

All in all we had a relaxing break at a very reasonable cost. We had Room 1 with the four poster bed - the bedroom is spacious as is the en-suite although the colour is dated (pink) with a corner bath and shower over - but it did its job perfectly well.

Negatives - not many at all - the route to the hotel is down a narrow road and their car park is quite small - minor things really. They are currently engaged in building work although this had very little impact upon us and I understand it is nearly completed.

About 9 years ago we stumbled across this lovly hotel and we make a pilgramage from Bristol a few times a year to visit Woody Bay.

The room are old fashioned and charming. The warmer weather invites walks down to the bay; the cooler weather beckons sitting by the fire in the cozy sitting room. All climes
invite to sit down and dine. It is the best food EVER.

All we can say is go!