Most Romantic Hotels in Devon

Millbrook Cottages comprises a handful of upscale lodgings set in a rustic and relatively remote area of North Devon. The gardens here are particularly scenic, with winding streams and forest paths leading to timber snugs and pretty lakes. All cottages feature high-tech amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and fully equipped kitchens, as well as attractive decor. The lack of spa or swimming pool is a shame, but there is a hot tub in a cozy cabin.

The nine-room Somerville is an upscale boutique bed-and-breakfast with some of the most lavish, classically styled interiors in Torquay or the English Riviera. Though the property does overlook a fairly busy road, traffic noise isn't too obtrusive; the town center is a five-minute walk away but guests should note that it's all uphill on the way back. Rooms are superbly presented with luxury amenities and spotless bathrooms. An excellent cooked-to-order breakfast, wonderfully opulent lounge, and beautiful green gardens are the finishing touches on one of the finest places to stay in town -- and at relatively reasonable rates. 

Artsy and upscale, urbane and sophisticated, the 59-room Magdalen Chapter is housed in a former Edwardian-era hospital within a five-minute walk of the heart of Exeter. Stylish and contemporary rooms include original art, iPads, free minibars, Nespresso machines, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, although a few of the rooms are on the small side. The heated indoor-outdoor pool is an outstanding feature, and a striking restaurant offers fine dining with a daily seasonal menu and the option to dine alfresco. The Magdalen Chapter also has two lounges, a cocktail bar, and a spa with a small fitness center.

Sampsons Farm Country Hotel is a mid-range Bed and Breakfast-style lodging housed in an ancient farmstead dating back to the 15th century. While the location is a little off the beaten track -- a car is vital -- the pretty surroundings make for pleasant country walks. The old buildings mean some quirky rooms and a farm location means animal noises, though only enough to bother the lightest sleeper. There's no full restaurant, but the eggs at breakfast couldn't be fresher.  All in all its great for those wanting a genuinely rustic experience.

The upscale, 32-room Deer Park Country House Hotel is a fine example of a Georgian country retreat set within 80 acres of expertly tended gardens. Located at the end of a long drive, the property is off the main road, which makes for a particularly peaceful and secluded setting. The hotel lacks the spa common for this type of property, so those looking to be pampered might want to look elsewhere. But those into excellent dining and country pursuits such as clay-pigeon shooting and falconry could find just what they're after here. 

The Northcote Manor Country House Hotel is a mid-range country retreat perched on a hilltop overlooking spectacular North Devonshire landscape. While there's not a great deal in the way of on-site facilities, the serene surroundings with plenty of local walking trails make for a peaceful stay. The hotel's restaurant also offers some of the finest dining in the area and cozy lounges have log fires. Rooms are traditional and simple, and a bit too old-fashioned for some. While younger guests might get bored, for a secluded spot with plenty of peace, quiet, and great views, this is a solid affordable option.

The Headland is a mid-range, 78-room hotel housed in a charming Victorian summer home that retains plenty of its original period features. Its name is apt: The property is perched on a cliff top overlooking Tor Bay, and about a five-minute drive from Torquay town center. Rooms are well-maintained, if a little old-fashioned in parts, and while some feature sea views others can feel a little gloomy. Both restaurant and gardens are elegantly presented, though evening entertainment won't appeal to younger guests.

The Fox and Hounds Country Hotel is a mid-range, 20-room property occupying a former coaching inn in the heart of the North Devonshire countryside. The setting is genuinely scenic and serene with lush greenery and plenty of wildlife, including fishing on-site. While rooms are clean and well-maintained, the traditional decor can feel a little dated in places; the tree-house accommodation, however, is superb. The bar and restaurant are cozy with a good selection of local food and drink (which can be pricey). Overall it might be a little remote for some, but for others its a great spot for a secluded weekend surrounded by nature.

Queens Hotel is a traditional, mid-range, 76-room seaside property that's within a five-minute walk of Paignton's sandy beach and town center. While the mood is charming, cheerful, and inviting -- and there's a lovely red-brick terrace where guests can gather to eat and drink -- the decor might feel a little old-fashioned to some. Facilities are excellent, though, with nightly entertainment, five-course dining, a large breakfast selection, a game room with billiards, and a heated indoor pool, but be aware that rooms are not air-conditioned, and they can get hot in the summer.

The three-pearl Bickley Mill Inn provides charming country-style accommodations in an especially scenic spot in South Devon's Stoneycombe Valley. Its 13 guest rooms are individually decorated in a fresh yet homey style, and most overlook the pretty gardens. The inn's bar and restaurant emphasize local sourcing, and much of its produce and ales come from nearby farms and local breweries. For a quaint, rustic bed-and-breakfast that's within easy reach of both Dartmoor and the English Riviera (Torbay), The Bickley Mill Inn is one of the best options around. Be aware that it's popular with wedding parties, and travelers might want to check if its hosting one at the time of their stay before booking.