Stoke Lodge

Review

On the south Devon coast near Dartmouth, this country hotel dates back to the seventeenth century; the front was rebuilt in 1814. Further extensions over the years have added up-to-date facilities. The owners, Steven and Christine Mayer, are 'kind and helpful', said recent guests. 'Everywhere is warm, clean and cosy. Our good-sized bedroom with lovely sea view (extra charge) had ample storage space, good lighting, wide, comfortable beds (one made with duvet, the other with blankets, as we had requested).' The lounges have 'plenty of squashy sofas and chairs, plus tables for bridge, etc'. The bar is 'very elegant', in dark green. Outside are gardens, lawn, wooded areas, a pond with ducks, a swimming pool surrounded by loungers, a giant chess set and a tennis court. The chef, Paul Howard, serves a four-course daily-changing dinner menu (sample dishes: warm carpaccio of smoked salmon; Blackawton lamb casserole, crisp bacon and potato). Breakfasts have a good buffet of fruits, cereals, etc. Cream teas are served, on the lawn in fine weather. 'Staff are cheerful and anxious to please. High standards.' More reports, please.

This hotel accepts discount vouchers which entitle readers to a 25% discount off their normal B&B rate. Each printed copy of the Guide contains six vouchers worth in total about £150. BUY THE GUIDE