Waterloo Cross, Devon by Marston's Inns

Our room was clean, thanks Sharon, and everything worked. We slept well in the comfortable bed and pillows. The pub was welcoming, the staff were friendly and helpful, and the lunch and evening meals were nice. The tables looked clean but felt very sticky, which needs sorting. The order and pay option at the table was useful, including because my wife could get a chicken korma that wasn’t on the main menu. We’d booked one night ahead of a nearby balloon flight, but the weather cancelled it. There were a few minor hiccups that didn’t spoil the stay. I used to be a hospitality maintenance manager, so I understand the tight margins. Still, places often seem understaffed, and that was true at the Waterloo cross pub, especially on a bank holiday. When I arrived at 2pm, it looked like the same staff were still working in the evening, perhaps on a split shift. They were serving at the bar and food, covering reception for overnight guests, clearing tables, and showing people to rooms. One person was also doing breakfast, checking guests out and sweeping floors. They stayed cheerful and willing to help throughout. With operating profit of £179.7 million, up from £151.7 million in 2024, I’m sure they’d appreciate another pair of hands. We’ll book again when we rebook the balloon flight.

The room is a bit worn, but it’s clean and has what you need. The food is why I’ll return. After working nights, it was great to come back to a proper fry-up, and the burgers were good enough for any top restaurant. Mel gave me a lovely welcome on the first day, and all the staff were very nice, though I didn’t catch their names. I’ll definitely book again if I’m working nearby.

The food and atmosphere were lovely when I came with my family a few weeks ago. Sharna was especially attentive and made us feel comfortable. Definitely worth visiting.

The room was amazingly spacious, and the bed was very comfortable. Free parking and a convenient location made things easy, and the shower had a new German mixer. What made my stay unforgettable was how comfortable the hotel atmosphere felt.