Hotel Review: Glebe House Devon England

Sep 7

Biblical rain battered the windows as we inelegantly rolled onto our quilt-covered bed full of food from an afternoon well spent at Glebe House in Devon. The bedside table lamps glowed a deep buttery hue against the darkness creeping in from the storm outside as we lay there in silence, watching the thunder cast flickering shadows on the jug of dainty wildflowers which sat opposite the bed. It was mid-May and for our first trip of the year, we had decided to explore a little closer to home in the well-known and loved region of Devon, England.

Food + Drink 4.5/5

The restaurant was bustling with couples and families as we walked past light timber tables scattered with vases of wildflowers and patterned napkins. We were seated in the glass conservatory with indoor hanging vines and views over the gentle slopes of the Devon countryside. Glebe house offers a regularly changing set menu from Thursday through to Sunday composed of four courses and petit fours, each one designed accordingly to the season with local meats and produce from their onsite garden and trusted suppliers.
Arriving midday on Sunday our meal kicked off with a glass of crisp English sparkling wine, freshly baked bread, whipped cheese and soft mangetout with a mint-based sauce. This was then followed by a homemade lemony tagliatelle before finishing with meringue, lightly whipped cream and sweet English strawberries. Only a few hours in and Glebe House had already won me over with the high quality of food, seasonal flavours and warm hospitality as each dish was introduced by the chef himself.

A kitchen supper is available for guests Monday to Saturday and is what can only be described as hearty grandma-style cooking with dishes such as pasta, pies and casseroles. The clear care and attention to these evening dishes were just as delicious as the lunch had been with garden salads sprinkled with colour using edible flowers and a lasagne packed with crisp greens.

Breakfast is included in the room rate and is a casual affair with all tables presented with homemade granola, fruit and yoghurt before taking any hot food orders. The additional items available during our time of stay were sausages, bacon and eggs which is, unfortunately, a little limiting for vegetarians. Altogether the food was creative and delectable with clear thought and passion put into every dish.

**Aesthetic + Interiors 4/5**

The Georgian house was a former family home and still has original architectural qualities throughout. A quirky internal scheme runs from the communal areas into the 6 uniquely decorated bedrooms all designed by Studio Alexandra. Taking inspiration from the beauty of the English countryside each area has a bold use of colour and patterns with original art and murals.
My favourite area had to be the sitting room with its loudly upholstered armchair, grand stone fireplace and views over the mature garden. I love the juxtaposition in the vibrancy of the tiger tapestry against the joyful peach-coloured walls which centre the room. The perfect place to retire after dinner with a book or to play one of the many board games available late into the evening.
Our room was at the front of the house and appropriately named the 'Morning Room'. Using a split complementary colour scheme to create a sense of playfulness the room features an original fireplace, walk-in turquoise tiled shower and a large double bed coated in a red quilt.

What is so unique about the layout of Glebe House is that it feels although you are staying in a family home. This is created by the base of the house being grounded by the centralised entrance hall and the multiple dining areas and main sitting room that branch off from it. During the day you will be able to glance into the traditional farm-style kitchen to see food being prepared creating a very open and homely environment.

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**Facilities + Small Touches 4.5/5**

The property sits on 15 acres with a large garden, kitchen garden and growing area. The garden has an outdoor heated swimming pool which is open between April - September and the tennis court is available for the enjoyment of guests. Perfectly situated within the Coly Valley we enjoyed watching the cows slowly graze across the fields directly in front of the house each day. Thoughtful touches are scattered throughout your stay from the delicious homemade cookies and fresh flowers in your room to the communal use of umbrellas by the front door.

Service + Atmosphere 4/5

The service has a very personal feel with a soft approach which reflects the family house setting and style of hospitality that sets Glebe House apart which I loved. You won't find any menus, food buffets or your typical reception desk and you will be asked to you leave your shoes at the door to walk around in your socks or slippers. Outside of meal times you will most likely find someone in the kitchen but are left to your own devices during the day. Best suited to couples looking for a quiet and relaxed stay the separation of rooms can feel a little disconnected and some music would have been nice during evening meals to enhance the atmosphere.