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The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Beach photoThe Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Exterior photoThe Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Exterior photo

THE DOWNS, BABBACOMBE - Your Premium Stay in Torquay, Devon

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8.8|Great
Check rooms and rates
From$157 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
28Oct
Check-out
29Oct
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Seafront, 41-43 Babbacombe Downs Road, Babbacombe, Torquay, Torquay, TQ1 3LN
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Close to Babbacombe Beach
Great
8.8
8.3
/10
5.0
4.6
/5

4-star Gold guest accommodation on Babbacombe seafront with panoramic sea views

Amenities & Services

The Downs, Babbacombe provides a concierge service that can arrange everything from golf tee times to theatre tickets and pamper sessions. The forecourt café serves traditional Devonshire cream teas with home-made scones and farm-made Devon clotted cream ice cream during summer. Guests can request a filled picnic hamper for day trips, prepared by 9:30am when ordered by 4pm the previous day.

Rooms

The hotel has 12 en-suite bedrooms, 8 of which have balconies overlooking the whole of Lyme Bay. All rooms feature pocket sprung beds, Egyptian cotton linen, fluffy bath sheets, hand towels and flannels, and Temple Spa toiletries. The Junior Suites and Master Suite can accommodate up to 8 people by combining adjoining rooms.

Location

The property sits directly on Babbacombe Downs, the highest promenade in the country, with steep wooded cliffs leading down to Oddicombe and Babbacombe beaches. The Babbacombe Cliff Railway, operating since 1926, carries passengers 240 feet down to the beach. Torquay harbour is 1.9 miles away, with regular bus services connecting to the town centre.

Dining

The restaurant serves an award-winning breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients including free-range eggs and multiple award-winning Regency sausages from Newton Abbot. Evening meals cost a fixed £25.95 for two courses, with ingredients like River Teign mussels from an estuary visible from the restaurant and fish from Brixham Fish Market. During summer, the forecourt café offers a selection of cakes, pastries, and Traditional Devonshire Cream Teas.

Family & Pets

Children of all ages are welcome, with family rooms, travel cots, junior beds, baby changing facilities, and high chairs provided. The hotel is pet-friendly in all areas except the restaurant, offering dog bowls, towels, cold storage for fresh food, and a chargeable dog sitting service. Over half of the local beaches remain dog friendly all year round, and Babbacombe beach is dog friendly year round.

Highlights

Accolades: 4 Star GOLD Guest Accommodation by VisitEngland and AA, plus Breakfast Award and Dinner Award

Rooms: 8 sea-view balcony rooms with panoramic views of Lyme Bay

Dining: Award-winning breakfast with Regency sausages and River Teign mussels

Services: Concierge service, picnic hampers, dog sitting service

Exclusive Hire: Minimum 24 people, tailored meal times, full planning

“The commanding seafront views from this establishment are a significant draw, particularly from rooms with balconies. While the breakfast, noted for generous portions and quality local produce, is a highlight, the late serving time may not suit all schedules. It's clear the location in Babbacombe, close to gardens and entertainment, contributes greatly to its appeal, coupled with the genuinely hospitable hosts.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Ukdevon

Select your room type

The Downs, Babbacombe offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Small Double Room
    2 persons
    7 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Balcony
    Heating
  • Double Room Rear View 2nd Floor
    2 persons
    13 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Compact Double Room Balcony Sea View 2nd Floor
    2 persons
    7 m²
    1 Double bed
    Balcony
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The Downs, Babbacombe offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.9/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Concierge desk
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Tennis court
  • Bowling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Public parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 10 per day.

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Aqua park
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Downs, Babbacombe, a delightful culinary tapestry awaits. From traditional British fare to exotic Asian flavors, guests can choose from inviting dining spaces that cater to diverse palates and dietary needs, creating a warm atmosphere for memorable meals.
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Traditional British
Ambiance
Cozy and traditional, with a warm welcome from the proprietor, Werner, who might even share a yodel or two.
Key Offerings
Specialties include hearty British dishes, as well as options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Enjoy the unique charm of a local restaurant with delicious tastes and vibrant service.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; ideal for both breakfast and dinner.

Lounge Bar

Casual Dining with a focus on breakfast and drinks
Ambiance
A relaxed setting perfect for unwinding with friends and pets, featuring dog-friendly policies at all times.
Key Offerings
Breakfast options include delightful selections such as boiled eggs & soldiers and fluffy pancakes. The Lounge Bar also serves an array of beverages for any time of day.
Reservation
Not needed
Serves breakfast and dinner.

The Downs, Babbacombe Location

Seafront, 41-43 Babbacombe Downs Road, Babbacombe, Torquay, Torquay, TQ1 3LN
Map view
Nearby
Hampton Avenue Babbacombe
Babbacombe Model Village
560 m
TorquayEngland
Babbacombe
270 m
Walls Hill Road Babbacombe
Babbacombe & Oddicombe
390 m
Train Station
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
330 m
Restaurants
Angels Tea Rooms
40 m
49 Babbacombe Downs Road
The Buccaneer Inn
20 m
43 Babbacombe Downs Road Babbacombe
The Babbacombe Bay Cafe
40 m
33-35 Babbacombe Downs Road Babbacombe Bay Hotel
Royal Carvery
50 m
31 Babbacombe Downs Road
Hamiltons Club
150 m
63 Babbacombe Downs Road
Drakes Fish & Chip Shop
200 m
64 Babbacombe Road
Margo's Cafe & Lounge
200 m
147 Reddenhill Road
Himalaya Restaurant
290 m
133 Reddenhill Road Babbacombe
Route 16
280 m
86 Babbacombe Downs Road
Labrows Bistro Bar
260 m
131 Reddenhill Road Babbacombe
Explore Torquay
Local Highlights Near The Downs
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Babbacombe Beach
Babbacombe Beach
8 minutes' walk
Babbacombe Beach features stunning views and sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing and picnicking.
Babbacombe Model Village
Babbacombe Model Village
7 minutes' walk
This miniature village boasts stunning craftsmanship and cleverly designed scenes, perfect for visitors of all ages.
Bygones
Bygones
9 minutes' walk
A Victorian-themed attraction offering fascinating exhibits, including a full-size steam train and unique artifacts.
Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern
5 minutes' drive
An ancient limestone cave system with guided tours, showcasing incredible geological formations and prehistoric history.
Oddicombe Beach Adventure
11 minutes' walk
Water sports and hiking trails await at Oddicombe Beach, where you can rent kayaks or simply soak in the sun.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
4 minutes' walk
The cliff railway offers scenic rides to Oddicombe Beach with breathtaking coastal views. Ideal for families and couples.
Spa Day at the Grove
5 minutes' drive
Relaxation awaits at The Grove's spa, providing treatments that rejuvenate your mind and body in a tranquil setting.
The Buccaneer Inn
The Buccaneer Inn
1 minute' walk
A vibrant pub offering hearty meals and local ales, perfect for a casual dining experience by the seafront.
Angels Tea Rooms
Angels Tea Rooms
1 minute' walk
Charming tea room serving delightful homemade cakes and traditional afternoon tea, making it a cozy stop for visitors.
Hamiltons Club
Hamiltons Club
2 minutes' walk
An upscale dining venue known for its seasonal menu, offering a sophisticated atmosphere and exquisite dishes.
Living Coasts
Living Coasts
30 minutes' walk
A family-friendly marine attraction with interactive exhibits featuring sea life, marine education, and beautiful coastal views.
Torquay United FC
Torquay United FC
14 minutes' walk
Catch a local football match, experiencing the thrilling atmosphere and community spirit at Torquay's home ground.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Torquay 26 min  ·  2.1 km
  • Airports
    Exeter International (EXT) 64 min  ·  42.1 km
  • Train
    Torre Train Station 30 min  ·  2.5 km
    Torre Railway Station 30 min  ·  2.5 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 21 min  ·  1.7 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:30-21:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 10 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
11

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Downs, Babbacombe from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
8.5/10
Comfort
8.4/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.8/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Sea views
Comfortable beds
Amazing breakfast
Cons
Cold welcome
Guest reviews
based on 35 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About The Downs, Babbacombe
Can I bring my small dog along if I decide to stay?
19 November 2024
Yes, dogs are welcome for an additional fee of £10 per night, payable upon arrival. However, not all rooms can accommodate larger dogs, so it's best to check in advance regarding room suitability.
Is it possible to enjoy evening entertainment at nearby locations?
05 January 2025
Evening entertainment is not available on-site, but there are several local venues nearby offering live music, cabaret shows, and quizzes.
Are dogs permitted on the beach close to the hotel?
15 March 2025
Certain beaches around the hotel allow dogs at various times of the year, with some even welcoming them year-round.
What is the cost for a vegetarian breakfast option?
22 April 2025
Vegetarian breakfasts are offered at £10 per person. Guests can view the breakfast menu directly on the hotel's website.
Are dogs allowed in the dining areas?
30 May 2024
Dogs are not permitted in the main restaurant but are allowed in the bar area where guests can enjoy their meals with their pets.
Can guests easily access the beach with paddleboards from the hotel?
13 June 2024
The beach can be accessed from the hotel via the road leading to Babbacombe or Oddicombe Beach.
What parking options are available for guests?
28 July 2024
Free parking is available on nearby streets or in a council-run Pay and Display car park located just behind the property.
How far is it from the hotel to the local theatre?
10 August 2024
The Babbacombe Theatre is approximately 300 meters away, making it an easy walk for guests.
What are the check-in and check-out procedures?
17 September 2024
Check-in is available from 15:30 to 21:00, and check-out is until 10:00. For early or late requests, guests should inquire at the time of booking.
Is it possible to find rooms with private bathrooms?
25 October 2024
Yes, all rooms at the hotel feature private bathrooms. Availability can be confirmed when selecting dates for booking.

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