Combe House Hotel

One of the few good hotels in the Quantock HIlls, Combe House is set at the end of a country lane on the outskirts of the village of Holford. It is a 12-minute drive to the fossil-filled beach at Kilve and eight minutes to Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s house at Nether Stowey. A great selection of walks take you up into the heather and gorse-covered hills behind.

Big sash windows look out of the Grade II-listed property across to the steep side of a tree-covered combe opposite. The whitewashed house, with narrow, sloping corridors, once incorporated a mill and a tannery, and a 26ft waterwheel still remains. The décor evokes a romantic country cottage in most places but contemporary metallic tones liven up some rooms. Downstairs, the jumble of mismatched chairs and quaint carpet in the restaurant would benefit from a more focused overhaul. The bar and lounge – the latter with tweed easy chairs and a large fireplace – are snug spaces. Outside, flower beds throng with rose bushes and ferns, while mature trees surround the hotel and line the valley.

Afternoon tea is served all day until 5pm – the best spot to enjoy it is beside the stream. The service is unhurried but dedicated. Laminated walking routes to the coast and hills are available from reception. Several rooms are dog-friendly and there is ample parking on the gravel drive.

Superior rooms are found at the front or side of the hotel and have garden views. Classic rooms tend to be at the back, looking over the trees, though Number 6 is front-facing and good value. 

The Executive Room has a separate lounge with a sofa bed, but all bedrooms have been given a touch of glamour, with velvet furnishings in silvery, teal and dusky pink shades, and come with small televisions, hairdryers, and tea and coffee-makers. Of the bathrooms, five have showers only, while the two largest have showers and separate baths. Number 19, on the ground floor, has its own conservatory and direct garden access. 

The Garden lodges are dressed in spring colours, with armchairs and outdoor seating areas.

Food served in the restaurant is hearty with an emphasis on fresh seasonal produce. Meats, fish and groceries are sourced from local suppliers, keeping the menus authentic to the surrounding area. Portions are ample.

The menu is filled with classic and modern British dishes ranging from Rib-eye steaks to lamb, game and the market catch of the day.

Light bites and cream teas are served throughout the day and the bar stocks a good range of local beverages including Exmoor Ale from Wiveliscombe, Annings cider from Lyme Bay and Thatchers sparkling wine. A homely vibe is very much at the heart of the house; the ideal setting to kick back and enjoy a taste of the South West.

Double rooms from £89 in low season; and from £119 in high. Half board from £129 in low season; and from £159 in high.

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