Business Details
Award-Winning Accommodation in Babbacombe
The Downs Hotel has been offering serviced accommodation since before the Second World War, nestled on the prestigious seafront of Babbacombe within The English Riviera. Owned and operated by Kate & Ed Wood since 2007, our establishment combines historic charm with modern comforts, holding 4 Star GOLD Guest Accommodation ratings from VisitEngland and the AA. Recognised with accolades including Tripadvisor Hall of Fame status and multiple regional hospitality awards, we specialise in award-winning breakfasts, evening dining featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a personalised concierge service.Our 12 en-suite bedrooms, including eight with panoramic sea views, reflect our commitment to excellence while maintaining a warm, family-run atmosphere. With affiliations to Child Friendly Matters and a proven track record in service excellence, we provide tailored experiences for leisure travellers, families, and exclusive hire events.
Services
Accommodation
Award-Winning Dining
Concierge Service
Exclusive Hire
Child-Friendly Facilities
Highlights and features
- Award-winning breakfasts and evening meals using locally sourced ingredients
- Panoramic sea-view rooms with modern amenities
- Personalised concierge service for tailored experiences
- Recognised with Tripadvisor Hall of Fame and regional hospitality awards
- Family-run with a 4 Star GOLD Guest Accommodation rating
Associations and certifications
- VisitEngland
- The AA
- Child Friendly Matters
What people say
Award-winning breakfasts
Panoramic sea views
Personalised service
Family-friendly
Clean and comfortable
Services
Accommodation
Our 12 en-suite bedrooms combine modern comforts with historic charm, including eight rooms with panoramic sea views over Lyme Bay. Each room features flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, luxury Temple Spa toiletries, and daily replenished refreshments. Recently refurbished with oak furniture and pocket-sprung beds, we cater to families with interconnected rooms and special requests.
Award-Winning Dining
Savor locally sourced breakfasts and evening meals in our sea-view restaurant, holding multiple VisitEngland and AA awards. Our menus feature Regency sausages, River Teign mussels, and Brixham fish market catches, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Home-made cream teas use Devon clotted cream and WI-approved gluten-free scones.
Concierge Service
Our on-site team provides tailored travel advice, theatre booking assistance, and local attraction guidance. We arrange picnics, private dining, and exclusive hire packages for groups, ensuring seamless holiday planning. This service minimises hassle through pre-arrival coordination and local expertise.
Exclusive Hire
Host intimate gatherings or group bookings with our exclusive hire option, accommodating minimum 24 guests. Custom packages include flexible meal times, private dining spaces, and dedicated service. Ideal for family reunions or special occasions within our Victorian property with seafront access.
Child-Friendly Facilities
Certified by Child Friendly Matters, we offer interconnected rooms, kid-friendly menus, and local activity recommendations. Our lounge bar welcomes families with four-legged members, and we provide equipment like easy chairs and ironing facilities upon request.
People
Kate Wood
Owner & Chef
Kate Wood co-owns The Downs with her husband Ed, overseeing culinary operations and guest services. With over 15 years in hospitality, she specialises in locally sourced cuisine and has led the team to multiple dining awards.
Ed Wood
Owner & Operations Manager
Ed Wood manages The Downs' operations alongside Kate, focusing on guest experience and facility management. His hands-on approach ensures the property maintains its 4-star ratings and award-winning standards.
Questions
Does The Downs offer sea-view rooms?
Yes, 8 of our 12 en-suite rooms feature panoramic sea views over Lyme Bay.
Are meals included in accommodation rates?
Breakfast is included; evening meals are available at £25.95 for two courses.
Is The Downs suitable for families?
Yes, we're Child Friendly Matters certified with interconnected rooms and kid-friendly amenities.
Can I book exclusive hire?
Yes, our exclusive hire option accommodates groups of 24+ with custom meal packages.
What nearby attractions do you recommend?
We provide concierge access to English Riviera attractions including Torquay's beaches and Dartmoor National Park.
Do you have parking facilities?
Parking details aren't specified in the text; please contact us directly for information.
Reviews (4)
Barry Wilkinson
May 12, 2022
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From the moment we arrived at the Hotel, we were welcomed with tea or coffee, The room was very nice, large bed with fresh linen and nice white towels, the view from the balcony beautiful, the Breakfast and Evening meal excellent, the staff were all friendly and very helpful. Ed And Kate the owners And staff made the stay a pleasure. The Location is excellent for touring many beautiful and interesting places.
Anthony Dugmore
Jun 16, 2021
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We have just spent an amazing week at The Downs. From first stepping in the door the staff were so helpful, friendly and always went the extra mile to make our stay so amazing. The food was out of this world, I'm sure Gordon Ramsey was in the kitchen. Our room was spotless and the view from the balcony overlooking the sea will always be imprinted in our memories. Thanks again for an amazing week. Tony &Rachel
Amanda Everett
Jun 02, 2021
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With stunning views from your own private balcony, great food, very dog friendly, great staff and an excellent base to explore the Torbay area you can't go wrong with the Downs.
Nick Morris
Jan 20, 2021
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Felt completely comftable in the middle of a global pandemic that The Downs was completely clean and sanitized. Hand gel at every turn. Breakfast was one of the best I've ever had. Hosts we're very helpfull and friendly.
