The Royal Hotel - Bideford

Historic hotel on Bideford Bridge with river views and award-winning dining.

History and Character

The Royal Hotel Bideford dates back to the 17th century, with preserved Regency decor throughout the building. The hotel is associated with the 17th-century Court of Assize and author Charles Kingsley, who wrote parts of 'The Water Babies' and 'Westward Ho!' while staying here. The oak-panelled Kingsley Room features an ornate, sculpted ceiling and served as a location for planning D-Day landings.

Dining

The Merchants Bistro at the Royal Hotel Bideford serves dinner and breakfast, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The Sunday carvery is award-winning, featuring locally sourced produce and a dedicated gluten-free option with separate gravy. Guests can also enjoy a kid-friendly buffet and special diet menus upon request.

Rooms and Accommodations

The hotel offers 32 bedrooms, each with unique character and decor, including cozy double rooms and standard doubles. Rooms provide views of the River Torridge or the Tarka Trail, and some have large walk-in showers. The Royal Hotel is dog-friendly, charging £20 per dog per night, and provides pet bowls and a pet-welcoming policy.

Location and Activities

The Royal Hotel is located at the eastern end of Bideford Bridge, a short walk from the town centre and quayside. Guests can catch a boat to Lundy Island from the quayside, or explore the Tarka Trail for walking and cycling. Westward Ho! Beach and Clovelly village are within easy reach, and the hotel offers bicycle rental, billiards, darts, evening entertainment, and table tennis on site.

Services and Policies

The hotel provides free on-site parking and offers a 24-hour front desk with luggage storage and safety deposit boxes. Accessibility features include a lift, wheelchair-accessible rooms, and toilet with grab rails. Event spaces such as the Palm Court restaurant and private rooms are available for weddings, meetings, and parties, with catering by the hotel chef.

• Historic: 17th-century building with preserved Regency decor and Kingsley Room
• Dining: Award-winning carvery at Merchants Bistro with gluten-free options
• Location: Eastern end of Bideford Bridge, near Tarka Trail and Lundy Island boat
• Pets: Dog-friendly with £20 per night charge and pet bowls
• Rooms: 32 bedrooms with river or trail views, some with walk-in showers
• Activities: Bicycle rental, billiards, darts, evening entertainment, table tennis