16 Best Hotels in The West Country, England

With Clifton Suspension Bridge at the end of the street and the Avon Gorge directly below, this elegant Georgian B&B offers classic views of Bristol from its windows. The thickly carpeted rooms are spacious and embellished by antique furniture and works of art, and the comfy lounge offers access to a generous lawned garden. The staff welcome guests with a glass of sherry and a slice of homemade cake. Breakfast, around a communal table, is a lavish affair with smoked salmon on toast and pancakes with syrup among the numerous choices.

A classic Georgian building has been converted with flair and wit to create a contemporary guesthouse—the first link in what is now a small chain whose boutique properties all have a strong artistic bent. Each of the bright rooms has been individually designed by a different artist using a bold mixture of retro curios, old-style furnishings, and colorful murals, although bathrooms are reassuringly modern and well equipped. If possible, ask to see your room first (some are quite small). A self-catering cottage is available, too. The bar, restaurant, and terrace garden are also well worth exploring.

As the name suggests, this luxury Victorian B&B in Lynton occupies a lofty position with spectacular vistas over the Bristol Channel. Each of the guest rooms has an individual design, but all feature comfortable beds—ranging from carved and ornate to Jacobean (one has a four-poster)—and benefit from the exquisite views. Breakfast is in the conservatory and includes choices like eggs royale (with smoked salmon on a toasted muffin) and pancakes with berries, as well as several gluten-free options. There are discounts for two or more nights, a two-night minimum stay on Friday and Saturday, and children (that's anyone under age 18) and pets are not allowed.

The owner of this quirky B&B, set in a quiet neighborhood a 10-minute walk from the center, was previously an antiques dealer and has decorated the Victorian building with period furnishings, fascinating artwork (including a collection of prints by Bob Dylan), and a trove of objects that invite lingering. There's no sense of clutter, however; rooms are scrupulously clean and the breakfasts are superb.

In a quiet nook of Penzance, just steps from the Promenade and harbor, this Georgian house has bright, spacious, smartly decorated guest rooms with views over Mount's Bay from front-facing rooms. The hosts are always smiling, helpful, and full of information on what to see and where to eat. Breakfast is made to order with options including waffles, pancakes, eggs royale (with smoked salmon), and vegetarian. There's normally a two to three-night minimum stay in July and August, though there may be availability for last-minute bookings of one or two nights. 

This venerable hostelry, which incorporates the Great West Gate (circa 1473)—accessible via an ancient stone staircase—is an atmospheric base for exploring the area. Rooms are small and may present difficulties for those with mobility issues, but some have four-poster beds and wonderful views across to the cathedral, and one is in the gatehouse itself. Rugantino's serves Italian and English dishes, made largely from local produce.

In the heart of Lydford village and next to Lydford Castle, this 16th-century inn has rose trellises framing its pink facade and public rooms that are snug, lamp-lighted, and full of period clutter. Guest rooms vary in size, and include singles and larger rooms with four-poster beds. One has its own rooftop balcony, and four are in a cottage across the road. A range of bar snacks and full meals is available.

Everything in St. Ives seems squeezed into the tiniest of spaces, and this cottage lodging in the quiet Downalong quarter is no exception. Though small, the light, tastefully converted rooms are pleasingly simple in design, with modern decor and good bathrooms, and the more expensive ones have sea views. Most rooms are named after characters in Daphne du Maurier's novels (she regularly stayed here in the 1940s). Breakfast is not offered, but there are plenty of options in the immediate neighborhood, and rooms are equipped with fridges, fresh milk, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. A minimum two-night stay usually applies.

On a quiet street opposite the abbey grounds and just steps from Glastonbury's High Street, this elegant guest house offers pastel-hued, well-maintained rooms with great views and separate kitchenettes equipped with everything you need to rustle up snacks. If available, opt for the Abbey Suite, covering the entire top floor and with views of the abbey ruins framed by Wearyall Hill behind it. Breakfast isn't served, but you can make your own or walk to one of the numerous cafés close by.

Used as a guesthouse by the abbots of Cleeve in the 14th century and named for the family that occupied Dunster Castle for some 600 years, this classic inn harmonizes perfectly in style and atmosphere with Dunster village and castle. Opt for a superior or four-poster room for more space and views over the Yarn Market or the small garden. Bar meals and good ales are served in the log-fire-warmed bar, and there's a more formal restaurant.

Formerly a convent, this Georgian B&B sits directly opposite the abbey grounds, with views over the walls. The light and airy rooms are spotless and well equipped, and breakfast is served in a large kitchen, where you share one large table with other guests (choices include an energizing granola and yogurt compote). The three-story building has a chairlift for the mobility impaired; the house is a shoe-free environment (slippers are provided).

Looking onto a placid sward of lawn in the newly fashionable Royal William Yard district of Plymouth—formerly the navy's victualing quarter—this classic Georgian building once housed naval officers and now offers well-appointed guest accommodations with a touch of class. The rooms are bright and tastefully furnished and come with modern bathrooms. It's a brief walk to a selection of dockside eateries, or a stroll across the square to Bistrot Pierre, which has a range of French-inspired meals at reasonable prices (and is where guests must check in).

This 16th-century inn on the harbor front has low ceilings, exposed timbers, and steep staircases that lead to rooms with simple but stylish modern furnishings. Two rooms have small balconies where you can enjoy the breezes. The split-level restaurant, with oak beams and pillars, serves supremely fresh fish, scallops, and crab dishes.

The most luxurious Rick Stein lodgings in town are distinguished by their sophisticated and minimalist style. Excellently equipped, the spacious bedrooms have polished oak floors and either enjoy views over the harbor and estuary or have glass doors looking straight out onto the walled garden. Booking here guarantees a dinner table at the Seafood Restaurant, where breakfast is also served (unless you order the Continental breakfast in your room). You should reserve as far ahead as possible, and there might be a two-night minimum stay in peak periods.

Facing the churchyard in the heart of Chagford village, this inn dating from the 13th century retains its venerable character, from its part-thatched roof, granite facade, and mullioned windows to the grand inglenook fireplaces. Modern facilities are artfully integrated, most conspicuously in the smart restaurant located within a glass atrium in the courtyard. Although the guest rooms have remained essentially unchanged for several centuries, here too you'll find contemporary comforts including well-designed bathrooms. Everything from pub classics to evening specials is available in the restaurant, and the low-beamed bars exude warmth and conviviality, with St. Austell and craft ales on tap.

This venerable 17th-century coaching inn has counted the eminent statesman William Pitt the Elder among its guests, and, since his visit, it has retained much of its antique style. Today, though, the guest rooms are spacious, comfortable, and modern, with all the amenities necessary for a night or two. A range of foods is available in the bar and restaurant, including a hearty brunch.