The Palace

Easily one of the grandest and most impressive hotels in Paignton, the Palace also has one of the richest histories. Originally known as Steartfield House when it was built towards the end of the 19th century -- complete with stables and grounds -- the property was the residence of one of the sons of the Singer sewing machine fame. It became the Palace Hotel in 1925 and after passing through several owners, was bought by the Duchy group in 2001 -- a local hotel group that also owns the Headland and Queens Hotel. Since then it has done a fine job of maintaining the period elegance of the property both inside and out. The whitewashed hotel is surrounded by tidy two-acre gardens with a distinctive metal pyramid, while interiors are awash with original architectural features, attractive neoclassical touches, and polished marble floors. While the extravagantly decorated lounge -- complete with classical murals and intricate plasterwork -- might feel a little overboard, the overall vibe is upscale with enough contemporary flourish to rein in the chintz.

The hotel has a prime position overlooking an expanse of greenery, the beachfront esplanade, and the sea beyond. The green opposite is also home to a children's amusement park which is right by the start of the Victorian Paignton Pier and distinctive red-sand beach. The town center's pubs, restaurants, and souvenir shops are about five minutes away on foot, while the main train station is a 10-minute walk away. 

The hotel's 55 rooms are traditionally styled with a blend of burgundy patterned bedspreads and wallpaper or checkered fabrics with matching curtains. Amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, tea/coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no minibars or fridges. Clean and well-maintained bathrooms have Victorian-style touches with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted toiletries, and heated towel rails. As well as being generally larger, most Club and Executive rooms also feature sea views; some standard-level rooms can feel small and overlook the rear car park. Rooms are not air-conditioned, so can warm up in the summer months, although fans are available from reception.

There's certainly no shortage of on-site facilities at the Palace Hotel. Mornings start with full English and continental breakfast in one of two dining rooms (included in the rate), while set and a la carte menus are served for lunch and dinner in an elegant space with sea views. (Some rates include dinner in addition to breakfast.) An extravagantly decorated lounge provides a place to unwind with a drink and live entertainment is put on nightly. Leisure amenities are also impressive, with an on-site health club providing a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa pool, up-to-date fitness center, as well as a good range of massage and beauty treatments. The are also plenty of loungers and seating in the hotel's garden allowing for sun bathing and alfresco dining and drinking. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and parking is also free of charge.