Abbeyfield Hotel

Housed in a Victorian villa-style home, this family-run hotel offers a homey base on the English Riviera. With just six guest rooms, the atmosphere is intimate and inviting, and the hosts are attentive. The house is surrounded by a charming garden rife with flowers, shrubs, trees, and all sorts of greenery -- even small palm trees -- that makes for a pleasant view from many windows. Inside, the cozy living-room like lounge incites camaraderie and lingering in front of the fireplace. The black pleather couches could use an upgrade, but the space is pleasant with light walls and blonde wood flooring, as well as getting plenty of natural light from large windows. Floor-length curtains, wall sconces, and a chandelier add a touch of the past, though some might find the look a bit dated. Besides the lounge, guests also convene in the dining room for a full English breakfast every morning (included in rates). The clientele is a mix of leisure tourists (families and older couples) seeking a seaside getaway, as well as business travelers bound for the nearby conference center -- though with just a handful of rooms, guests should note that the property books up quickly at times. Stag and hen parties are not allowed. 

The hotel is situated in a quiet residential area of Torquay, a seaside resort town on the English Riviera. There are several other guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts in the immediate area, while restaurants, bars, and shops are a short walk away. The beach is about a 10-minute walk away. The marina, along with dining and shopping options, can be reached in about 20 minutes on foot (or a five-minute drive). Torre Abbey, a monastery that dates back to 1196, is a four-minute walk away and is home to an art gallery and museum. The English Riviera Conference Center can be reached in six minutes on foot. The Torquay train station is a 12-minute walk away or a three-minute drive from the hotel. The nearest airport, Exeter International Airport, can be reached in 35 to 40 minutes by car, while London is around a four-hour drive or train ride.

Rooms are clean and pleasantly decorated in a traditional style that's charming to some, though might feel dated to others. The six rooms differ a bit, but they all feature soft beige and cream hues, patterned wallpaper, and patterned bedspreads and pillows topping the beds. Framed prints hang here and there, and wooden furniture (painted white in some rooms) includes nightstands, desks, and wardrobes. The Junior Suite has a separate sitting area with two armchairs.

Standard amenities include small wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, electric kettles with a supply of tea and instant coffee, radio alarm clocks, free bottled water, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are clean and feature pleasant tiling -- though some can be quite small -- and they're equipped with showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

A full English breakfast with eggs is included in rates and served daily in a pleasant dining room. It also includes cereal, fresh fruit, yogurts, and toast with jam, as well as tea and coffee. Vegetarian options are also available, and the breakfast garners great reviews from most guests. Besides this convenience, features are limited at this small hotel. There's a homey living room-like lounge that's a cozy space to relax in and watch TV or linger by the fireplace. Guests can also relax in the lovely garden, weather permitting. Wi-Fi is free and on-site parking is available.