Watersmeet Shortlist*

There are ‘fantastic’ views across the bay to Lundy Island from Amanda James’s ‘relaxed’ traditional hotel above Woolacombe Bay. Once an Edwardian gentleman’s retreat, the ‘comfortable’ hotel today welcomes guests who come for the ‘well-cooked’ food and the ‘excellent’ walks to be had along the Coastal Path. All but three bedrooms look out to sea; some have a wooden balcony or a garden terrace. Each room is supplied with bottled water, upmarket toiletries, bathrobes and a season-appropriate duvet, though some guests think ‘the lighting could be better’. Take afternoon tea in the ‘spacious’ lounge, or on the terrace in good weather; come evening, dine on classic British dishes in the restaurant overlooking the bay. Simpler meals may be taken in the airy bistro. Lounge, bar, restaurant, bistro; terrace (alfresco meals and drinks). Function room. Lift. Free Wi-Fi, ‘weak’ mobile phone reception, in-room TV (Freeview). Background music. Room service. Civil wedding licence. ½-acre garden. Heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Treatment room. Sandy beach below. Children welcomed (early dinners). 29 bedrooms (3 on ground floor, 1 suitable for disabled). Per room B&B £160–£300, D,B&B £230–£370.