Trimstone Manor Country House Hotel

Our children were especially taken with all the different pet poultry, and the cream tea was delicious. The owners and staff were a delight too. We only stopped in with the children for cream tea, but were so glad we did. It felt like stepping into a quirky countryside dreamscape from another time. We'll be back.

We'd just got home after four nights here with my 90-year-old mother. The grounds are lovely, with gorgeous views and unusual animals wandering about, including peacocks. Our room was quirky but had a modern en-suite, and the swimming pool and sauna were lovely. The staff were so friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble. I'd highly recommend it as a place to stay if you like North Devon.

The narrow lanes on the way in are the one drawback, though they do mean things feel private and quiet once you're there. We really liked the East Down room, with its views and four-poster bed. The staff were nice, especially Joanne? at the desk. Breakfast was cooked to order, though catering was affected by staff shortages, as it was at places all around us.

Having the pool to ourselves late in the day felt like bliss, and it was such a luxury to be able to use it that late. The grounds and views are breathtaking, breakfast was delicious, and we loved hearing the peacock, cockerel and emus. The staff are so friendly. I can't remember feeling this relaxed in ages. We really needed a break, and it was more than we'd imagined. Thank you so much.