‘Completely wonderful in every way.’ ‘One of our absolute favourites.’ Readers give the thumbs-up to Richard Seton’s spa hotel overlooking the River Dart. ‘The lovely thing is that it doesn’t stand still – they are always looking to improve.’ Indeed, since last year a new wing of balcony suites has been added and the balconies on standard rooms have been replaced. Each room has a river view, perhaps sliding glass doors or French doors. Newly refurbished, pet-friendly ground-floor rooms have a handmade bed, wet room with drench shower; outdoor seating. The decor is contemporary and smart. ‘Fabulous staff’, under the ‘ever-present’ manager, Paul Downing, are ‘very helpful and eager to please’. Guests can order a seafood platter for sharing on the waterside terrace, hoping for a glimpse of a grey seal. At dinner, chef Peter Alcroft cooks such sophisticated dishes as pan-fried pollack, trio of beetroot, rösti, samphire and crab velouté. More simple options include West Country steaks with hand-cut chips. Breakfasts are judged ‘second to none’, though one reader did not care for the orange juice. (Ian Malone, Eric and Mary Woods, G Griffiths)