Hotel Endsleigh

The grounds were a highlight, especially the magical path through an archway of climbers and the gorgeous lawn with its overflowing borders. There’s a sun lounger where you can stretch out and wish you didn’t have to get up. I came for a special birthday lunch for the first time, and it didn’t disappoint. The food was delicious and the service impeccable without being overbearing.

Having breakfast or afternoon tea on the terrace, looking out across the Devon landscape, is one of life’s pleasures. This is a beautiful, authentic English country house hotel in a sublime setting. The gardens and landscaping are mesmerising, and the service and attention to detail are exquisite. Beautiful!

The desserts were faultless, and the mackerel starter looked beautiful and tasted spot on. But this restaurant can be hit and miss. My main, the beef ribs, was badly overcooked, like a leather shoe, so I sent it back. They offered a replacement, but by then my fellow diners had started eating, so I asked for a simple ham sandwich instead. It arrived after everyone else had finished their mains. The bread was dry and the ham seemed supermarket standard. I’d given up by that point, and nobody checked in, so I just carried on. There was an £18.75 discount on the bill, added after a £21.09 service charge. A 12.5% discretionary charge already seemed unnecessary, and adding it after those problems felt ridiculous. I felt the Maître d was very direct, and at times curt and rude. This wasn’t our first visit. A bit of kindness and a smile would have helped.

I stayed for three nights and will return, because the food and everything else were incredible. The rooms and setting are fabulous if you love gardens and countryside, with nothing but amazing scenery in view, no other buildings or roads. The reception staff were excellent, friendly and fun. The waiting staff let things down, though. I didn’t feel valued as a customer at all.