Ash Hotel B&B in Exmouth, England

The Ash Hotel B&B serves a continental breakfast in a dining room with sea views, but also offers guests a choice of cooked eggs or beans on toast prepared to order. Breakfast times are flexible, and the hosts accommodate dietary needs such as gluten-free bread and cereal. The meal includes fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, and a selection of cereals, with tea and coffee available.

Rooms are simply decorated with storage space, Freeview TV, and tea and coffee making facilities, and many offer views of the sea or the town. The decor is described by guests as quirky, with mismatched but thoughtfully chosen furniture and touches such as a rose pillow on the bed. Family rooms include a double bed and a single bed, plus a sofa, and certain single rooms have a private external bathroom down a few steps.

The hotel sits directly on the Exmouth seafront, a 5-minute walk from Exmouth Rail Station and bus stops metres away. A 10-minute walk leads to The World of Country Life, where visitors can see birds of prey and children can walk goats, and Phear Park is less than 2 miles away. Restaurants such as Rockfish are within a 2-minute walk, and the marina and passenger ferry to Starcross are also a short stroll.

The husband-and-wife team, Ash and Amina, provide local recommendations for dining and activities, and are known for empathetic, attentive customer service. Guests report receiving assistance with luggage storage before check-in and after checkout, as well as snacks and drinks for the journey home. The hosts also help with bike storage and offer advice on nearby parking options, including a 24-hour car park for £7.

Family rooms with sea views accommodate two adults and one child up to 5 years old, with an extra single bed and sofa. The hosts make a fuss of younger guests, offering hot chocolate and ensuring a comfortable stay. Breakfast includes options suitable for children, and the location provides easy access to the seafront, the marina, and family attractions like The World of Country Life.

Location: On Exmouth seafront, 5 min from train station

Breakfast: Continental plus cooked eggs/beans to order, with sea views

Rooms: Sea-view rooms, quirky decor, family rooms with extra bed

Service: Hosts provide local tips, luggage storage, bike storage

Nearby: 10 min to World of Country Life, 2 min to Rockfish restaurant