The Royal Hotel Bideford Exterior photoThe Royal Hotel Bideford Exterior photoThe Royal Hotel Bideford Exterior photo

The Royal Hotel - 3-Star Hotel in Bideford, England

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From$156 /night
Check-in
30May
Check-out
31May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Barnstaple Street, Bideford, EX34 7AB
-
Close to the Pannier Market
Nice
6.9
8.8
/10
3.0
4.4
/5

Dining

The Royal Hotel offers dining at Merchants Bistro, where the Sunday carvery features award-winning meals made with locally sourced ingredients. The oak-panelled Kingsley Room, with its ornate sculpted ceiling, serves as a historic setting for private events and special meals. Breakfast includes a full English served in the small dining room, with a range of cereals and other choices.

Rooms and Amenities

The hotel has 32 bedrooms, each with unique character and some offering views of the River Torridge. Room features include 24-hour room service, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee making facilities with biscuits. The property also provides a lift, family rooms, and accessible parking for guests with disabilities.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

The Royal Hotel welcomes dogs with pet-friendly accommodations and a policy that includes water bowls provided for canine guests. The hotel's location next to the Tarka Trail offers direct access to walking routes for dogs and their owners. Staff are trained to accommodate pets, and dogs are allowed in certain public areas.

Location and History

The hotel occupies a 17th-century building at the eastern end of ancient Bideford Bridge, with direct views of the River Torridge. Historic associations include Sir Charles Kingsley, who wrote parts of 'The Water Babies' and 'Westward Ho!' while staying here. Guests can walk to the quayside to catch a boat to Lundy Island or explore the Tarka Trail for walking and cycling.

Business and Family Features

The hotel provides meeting and banquet facilities for corporate events, along with fax and photocopying services for business travelers. Family-friendly amenities include board games and puzzles, a kid-friendly buffet, and special diet menus available on request. Free on-site parking and complimentary Wi-Fi are offered to all guests.

Highlights

Location: Riverside setting at Bideford Bridge, near Tarka Trail and quayside

Dining: Award-winning Sunday carvery at Merchants Bistro

Rooms: 32 uniquely decorated bedrooms with river views

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations with water bowls and Tarka Trail access

History: 17th-century building with Charles Kingsley association

“The Royal Hotel in Bideford presents a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, with staff consistently noted for their warmth and helpfulness, from check-in to breakfast service. Its position is particularly advantageous for Tarka Trail cyclists, and the recently renovated rooms, such as the Countryman or Kingsley, often surprise with comfortable furnishings and thoughtful amenities. While parking requires early arrival or consideration of nearby public options, the overall impression is one of a charming, well-situated establishment that invites return visits.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Hotels3s

Select your room type

The Royal Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Standard Single Room
    2 persons
    10 m²
    1 Single bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Cosy Double Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Standard Double Room
    2 persons
    13 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Royal Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Cycling

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

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

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Royal Hotel, dining is a heartwarming exploration of flavors and cultural influences, catering to diverse palates with options that embrace tradition and modernity. Guests can indulge in lovingly crafted meals in inviting spaces, perfect for families and gatherings alike.
The Royal Hotel Bideford Restaurant photo
The Royal Hotel Bideford Restaurant photo
The Royal Hotel Bideford Restaurant photo

The Regency Restaurant

Traditional family-friendly dining
Ambiance
Warm and welcoming, perfect for families
Key Offerings
Enjoy a delightful breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu, featuring a selection of locally sourced meats, a tasty vegetarian option, and thorough dietary accommodations including Halal, Kosher, Vegan, and more.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast from 07:00 - 09:30 (Monday to Friday), 07:30 - 09:30 (Saturday and Sunday); Dinner from 19:00 - 21:00 (daily)

Merchants Bistro

Casual dining with light lunches and dinners
Ambiance
Inviting and relaxed, ideal for casual family meals
Key Offerings
A tempting selection of light lunches and scrumptious dinners that promise to tantalize the palate with a delightful variety of flavors. Perfect for those looking for a midday pick-me-up or an evening treat.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary, please check for specifics

The Royal Hotel Location

Barnstaple Street, Bideford, EX34 7AB
Explore Bideford
Explore Bideford's Best
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Bideford Railway Heritage Centre
2 minutes' walk
Railway history showcased through exhibits. Perfect for enthusiasts, with guided tours available.
Tarka Statue
10 minutes' walk
A tribute to the beloved character from 'Tarka the Otter'. Scenic spot for photos and relaxation.
Clovelly Court Gardens
12 minutes' walk
Stunning gardens with diverse flora. Ideal for family outings and seasonal events.
The BIG Sheep
7 minutes' drive
Family-friendly amusement park with rides and activities. A great spot for fun-filled days out.
Discover the local attractions near The Royal Hotel
Uncover notable attractions near Royal Hotel Bideford in the Torridge district that offer a variety of experiences.
Ideal for casual browsing and local shopping: Pannier Market
Great for scenic walks and wildlife watching: Lundy Island
Perfect for exploring maritime history: Torridge Ships and Shipbuilding
Well suited for family-friendly activities: Atlantis Adventure Park
Best for adrenaline-pumping outdoor fun: The Ultimate Adventure Centre
Great for photo opportunities and leisurely strolls: Tarka Statue
Suited for peaceful contemplation and architecture appreciation: St Mary's Parish Church
Tarka Trail
7 minutes' walk
Scenic walking and biking path along the river. Great for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Skern Lodge Outdoor Activity Centre
45 minutes' drive
Adventure centre offering kayaking, climbing, and more. Perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Yoga at the Beach
9 minutes' drive
Beach yoga classes ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Schedule varies, booking recommended.
Silver Bridge House Bideford
2 minutes' walk
Casual dining with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy hearty meals and scenic river views.
Harts
5 minutes' walk
Traditional pub with a cozy atmosphere. Signature dishes include fish and chips, with vegetarian options.
Mr Chips
5 minutes' walk
Famous for its classic fish and chips. Quick service makes it ideal for families on the go.
Discover dining options near The Royal Hotel
Explore local dining options near Royal Hotel Bideford that cater to different tastes and occasions.
Ideal for casual meals and refreshing drinks: Latte & Lunch
Perfect for enjoying traditional dishes: Otters
Well suited for fresh seafood lovers: East Of The Water
Best for classic takeaway meals: Mr Chips
Great for riverside dining experiences: Silver Bridge House Bideford
Suited for hearty pub fare and local ales: Blacksmiths
Perfect for a cozy dining atmosphere: Number Eight
Ideal for casual gatherings and pub classics: Kings Arms
The Pannier Market
6 minutes' walk
Weekly markets offering local crafts and produce. A vibrant spot for all ages with live music on weekends.
Live Music at The Bell Inn
5 minutes' walk
Lively pub featuring local musicians. Great atmosphere for a night out with friends or family.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Bideford 5 min  ·  400 m
  • Airports
    Exeter International (EXT) 135 min  ·  89.5 km
    Newquay (NQY) 158 min  ·  105.3 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 5 min  ·  400 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP15 per person per day.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
32

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Royal Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 792 verified reviews
8.6 /10
Great
88 %
Recommend
Breakfast
8.1/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.6/10
Free WiFi
8.6/10
Location
8.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Pros
Excellent staff
Hotel cleanliness
Comfortable beds
Good breakfast
Cons
Traffic noise
Parking availability
Low water pressure
Guest reviews
based on 1593 reviews
6.9/10
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
FAQs
About The Royal Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Royal Hotel?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is on-site parking available at The Royal Hotel?
Free public parking is available on-site without the need for reservation.
What are some nearby attractions to The Royal Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Tarka Trail (0.3 km), Historic Bideford Bridge (0.3 km), and Westward Ho! Beach (3 km).
What dining options are there at The Royal Hotel?
Dining options include Merchants Bistro for breakfast and dinner, as well as an on-site lounge bar.
What amenities can guests find in the rooms at The Royal Hotel?
Each room features a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, and private bathrooms.
How far is The Royal Hotel from Exeter International Airport?
The hotel is located approximately 90 km from Exeter International Airport.
Are there any family-friendly amenities at The Royal Hotel?
The hotel offers amenities like children's buffets, cots, and board games for family guests.
Can guests enjoy any leisure activities while staying at The Royal Hotel?
Guests can avail themselves of cycling and enjoy nearby hiking along the Tarka Trail.
What language support is available at The Royal Hotel?
The staff at the hotel speaks English.
What makes The Royal Hotel a historical site?
The hotel has historical significance associated with the 17th-century Court of Assize and author Sir Charles Kingsley.
What type of cuisine does the restaurant at The Royal Hotel offer?
The restaurant serves locally sourced carvery meals and a selection of light lunches and dinners.
Are there any accessible features at The Royal Hotel?
The hotel offers wheelchair access and assistance for guests with limited mobility.

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