When you drive up the twisting, countryside airport and park at the quaint small car park of Buckland Tout-Saints, you feel a part of something unique. Pretty blossoms decorate your path before you’ve even reached the building and you can sense the relaxing atmosphere wash over you like a breath of fresh air. A William and Mary Country house manicured gardens and woodland, Buckland Tout-Saints oozes understated allure.
Stepping through the doors, you walk past the lounge, an rustic and elegant affair using plush curtains, wood-panelled walls and a beautiful chandelier on the ceiling. An open-fire licks on the hearth, the sounds of the crackling fire as well as the sweet aromas of burning wood fill the atmosphere. It’s a romantic and cosy setting.
It was at check we had been introduced into the staff- one of the highlights to this Hotel — who couldn’t do enough for any of the guests. There was no chilly handing of this key and leaving you to find your own way as is frequently the case. They asked if we wanted a drink enquired about our journey helped us up into our room- constantly with a grin.
The Hotel boasts sixteen exceptional rooms, all elegantly designed, and we remained in one of the Master Suites. This is a room to take your breath away.
Wth a gorgeous deep-purple and creme motif incorporated throughout the enchanting and gorgeous space, you felt steeped in luxury and history the moment you step through the doorway. From the seperate lounge/ dining room and bedroom area into the shower and tub rooms, nothing is spared and you’re in for a memorable stay. An window chair is an perfect place to curl up with a glass of wine and a book and watch the sun set across the hills and looks out on stunning views.
A large and lovely four-poster bed takes pride of this sleeping area, with a lavish chaise-lounge adding an extra touch to the room. The bathroom, although not overly spacious, is full of personality, charm and also the perfect spot to unwind in after a very long day.
Dinner takes place at the Queen Anne restaurant, down in the front of the house on the floor. Before you eat the Hotel ‘gentlemen’s smoking room’ bar is excellent for an aperitif cocktaillounge. Warm and inviting, you can sink into one of those leather chairs that are heavy and watch the last rays of sun disappear from the hills. In here you can order your meals ready for dinner — a nice touch — before being shown through to the dining room.
The elegant Russian pine-panelled dining area creates the perfect ambience for a meal to savour and be remembered for decades to come. With the flicker of dozens of candles, fresh flowers on each table as well as gentle music, a grand fireplace, as you sit and enjoy the air, you truly feel as though you would never want to float anywhere else. That atmosphere which makes you feel comforted hot and special, in a manner that not many areas can perform is encapsulated by it.
fish, poultry, fruits and vegetables for the dishes are delivered daily from local farms and fishing boats and this maintenance and passion really comes through at the food.Menus change according to the season, and during the year you may enjoy an entire plethora of fish, vegetarian and meat dishes. These include new season asparagus with crispy quail egg, parma ham salad, and start bay scallops — to name but a few!
Mains are varied throughout the year. For mine tarte tatin was selected by me. The pastry was light and fluffy and the shallots added the quantity of flavour. Texture was perfect and it was satisfying, yet not overbearingly so and certainly one of the best I have ever tasted. The wine which our waiter had chosen matched the dish the tender yet slightly sharp flavours complimenting the meals and actually offsetting the tastes. My partner chose duck breast that was sided with noodles, a vegetable package along with a jus that was candy. The duck was tender and tender, breaking apart and melting in the mouth. It made it obvious the restaurant is so adored, when paired with the tangy sauce. If you are in the area- even if you aren’t staying in the hotel itself- that is a restaurant magical to while away your evening and to unwind. I would recommend it. 
Dessert (my favorite part of a meal) is a reason to conserve room at Buckland Tout-Saints. Being a chocolate lover that is real, I needed to try out the Chocolate Fondant. Served with mandarin ice cream, this can be really a must-have for any individual sweet-tooth. My partner opted for the sticky toffee pudding, another favourite that was traditional, and this did not disappoint. The toffee was sweet yet not ailing and the ice cream mouth-wateringly creamy. Overall this meal was one to not be understated; the chef clearly knows exactly what he’s doing and is good. Each and every class tastes every bit as good as it looks and you feel like you have been treated. 
After dinner, the couch is the perfect way to round up the evening. Sit by the crackling fire and revel in the air. It’s near-impossible to feel anxious here and you’ll be able to feel your everyday worries washing away all.
Breakfast is either served in the main dining room or a smaller ‘room’ determined by the amount of guests. When we stayed it had been served at the dining area. The menu consists of an assortment of pastries, cereals, fruits and yoghurts and also the menu contains porridge, fish or boiled eggs, a full english and soldiers. We had the complete English (because how could you resist?!) Yet also attempted a few of the pastries which were delicious and not to be missed!
The beauty of this hotel along with your stay is one you need to experience- whether wedding, birthday, an anniversary or simply a weekend off. We couldn’t rate it highly enough and can not wait to return…
Seen from the City was hosted by Buckland Tout-Saints a part of Pride of Britain Hotels — a selection of 48 privately-owned independent British hotels. Located in the magnificent Devon South Hams region, this elegant country house hotel has 16 bedrooms and serves award-winning cuisine in its own Queen Anne restaurant which features original Russian pine panelling. The resort is set in four and a half acres of gardens and woodland. Total afternoon tea costs #15.95 per person. Costs start from #99 per room per night (two sharing) including full English breakfast. Contact Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929 (www.prideofbritainhotels.com).
Image From:seeninthecity.co.uk
