Rebecca is an experienced travel writer, specialising in Japan and the UK. Born and raised in the West Country, she's also spent time living in London, Cambridge and Kyoto, and is now based in Newcastle. She loves promoting independent and inclusive businesses, and sustainable off-the-beaten-track travel.
Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is in a quiet and peaceful location just outside town, a few minutes from the South West Coast Path and the precipitous Jacob's Ladder leading down to the shore; a few more minutes' walk and you'll be at Sidmouth's pebbly main beach.
By train: Honiton station is a 20-minute drive from the hotel with trains from London Waterloo (3 hours) and Exeter St David's (30 mins). Book trains to Honiton.
By car: The hotel is 4o minutes from Exeter, under 2 hours from Bristol and around 4 hours from London. There is free parking at the hotel.
Decorated in pale blues and creams, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel feels relaxing and fresh, if slightly bland in places. The laidback maritime style extends into the bedrooms, while the spa sticks to the classic earthy hues, low lighting and innocuous background music. The whole place is comfortable and accessible enough for retirees yet stylish enough for younger groups and couples, and with space and activities for families.
There's a small outdoor pool on the terrace and an indoor pool with a swim jet, plus a full range of other spa and fitness facilities. The hotel hosts fitness classes, activities and events such as live music and murder mystery evenings; events are unobtrusive enough to not get in the way of anyone just relaxing and enjoying the hotel facilities.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- HarSPA
- Indoor & outdoor pool
- Fitness activities
- Spa treatments
- Activities: SUP classes, family yoga, crabbing
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
Rooms are either in the main building or the New England-style courtyard annex; there are some pet-friendly rooms. Though a few rooms need updating, most are recently refurbished, with nautical design touches, waterfall showers and Nespresso coffee machines.
Room types: Single, Inland View, Courtyard, Superior Seaview, Seaview
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with The White Company toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, TV, complimentary gin and sherry.
The coastal location is reflected in the seafood-forward menu, and in design touches such as glass floats suspended from the ceiling. Opt for the more unusual dishes, as the classics tend to be a little bland and under-seasoned. There are dedicated vegan and gluten-free menus. There's also an extensive wine list and an innovative cocktail menu.
Upper Deck: Casual, all-day seafood bar and grill. Regional flavours, local produce, and seasonal ingredients. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea. A la carte mains from £12.50.
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