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Regularly named one of the UK’s most romantic hotels, this former Georgian rectory in a tiny hilltop hamlet in Devon, offers 12 en suite bedrooms — including five suites, each beautifully finished to a standard befitting the elegance and charm of the Exmoor countryside. Each room at the Old Rectory presents a distinct character with luxurious beddings matched to big cosy chairs and heavy curtains, while particular comforts such as walk-in showers and King Sized beds are specific to each room. Room highlights include: the duplex Cottage Suite tastefully finished with an inglenook and enough space for three; the Watersmeet Suite in the Coach House, with a roll-top bath and power shower; and the charming ground floor rooms in the rectory that look out through bright windows to the idyllic gardens. 

Regardless of your room choice, guests can expect all of the usual modern comforts (including super-fast internet, tea and coffee making facilities and spring water on tap) and a thoroughly relaxing atmosphere enhanced by the owners’ genuine hospitality and attention to detail.

The Old Rectory’s environmental policies extend beyond the hotel to the local rural community, with food waste feeding local sheepdogs, and old IT equipment recycled through Devonshire charities. Staff take part in regular environmental and social training, and rainwater is harvested for use in the thriving kitchen gardens.

The Old Rectory’s guest-only restaurant takes advantage of Devon’s extraordinary wealth of produce, with local meats and vegetables sourced ethically from local farms and fish delivered fresh from the local Appledore Fishmarket. The award-winning wine list, however, is abundantly international, and lovingly curated by the owners Huw and Sam who favour genuinely enjoyable wines and surprising grape varieties over superstar vineyards. 

Dinners at the Old Rectory are convivial and homely, with modern dishes expertly crafted by head chef Thomas Frost, while breakfasts are classically British (Exmoor breakfasts are delicious and served with local eggs and bacon) and enhanced by fresh fruits and cereals. Ideally located for contemplation and relaxation with village-framed vistas of North Devon’s unspoiled undulations, the Old Rectory offers a serene retreat perfect for city-dwellers looking for an authentic English countryside escape. Here, walkers have easy access to the stunning scenery of the South West Coast Path, and the charming villages of Clovelly, Croyde and Saunton Sands are all nearby. But anyone just wanting a cosy countryside escape will be well-served by the Old Rectory’s tranquil gardens and delightfully snug communal spaces.