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Built in 1840, this Grade II listed Victorian 'Gentleman's residence' is elegant, spacious and beautifully equipped, offering comfort and peace in all its en-suite bedrooms.....................words so true from the Merlewood House brochure.
If you've ever stayed in B&B's, especially in Europe, you may have been disappointed at times. I've hit some really awful ones over the years, dingy, grubby, even creepy. Finding this beautiful place to stay in my home town - remember I no longer have a family house there - was a bonus this trip.Wendy, a fabulous hostess and most interesting woman, made our three night stay at the end of our visit, elegant and comfortable and we became immediate friends. (Later I'll share the beautiful historic gardens she drove us to on our last day in Devon).
Wendy (left) and I became instant friends.
Needless to say, Wendy's home, dripping with chandeliers - you know I LOVE chandeliers and crystals - beautiful furnishings, fabrics and wallcoverings, spoke to me as I entered through the welcoming Gothic front door and passed through into the stunning dining room. This was a true home away from home................one I knew I would enjoy for its beauty and cleanliness, perfumed candles..........................
..................and DH for the "Full English" breakfast Wendy cooked in her great kitchen and placed before him on the elegant table set with a fabulous collection of Portmerion china and accessories..............
......well actually he enjoyed her company for more than her cooking skills, he feels she's HIS new friend too!
......well actually he enjoyed her company for more than her cooking skills, he feels she's HIS new friend too!
Upstairs, Wendy let us choose from three beautifully appointed spacious en-suite bedrooms. Besides the most comfortable bed, we had a great bathroom with large walk-in shower, towel warmer, terry robes, and windows that opened on to the garden allowing bracing morning fresh air.
Laura Ashley silk drapes and wallpaper.......and yet another glittering chandelier made the bedroom lovely...and the view into the Spring garden was pleasant.
As if all the loveliness of this Bed & Breakfast wasn't enough, there's more.
Wendy heads a full service Training Consultancy and in her treatment room does Reflexology and other relaxing and pampering treatments. If you've never had Reflexology performed on your poor old, tired, and well traveled feet, you have missed out on an hour of perfection while listening to soothing music and breathing in subtle scented air. Both DH and I had a session and thoroughly recommend it.
Merlewood House is a hidden jewel in my home town (Torquay, Devon). If you are fortunate enough to visit this seaside resort, or have friends who may be looking for a truly lovely place to stay during a trip, I highly recommend Wendy's beautiful B&B..........like me, you will not be disappointed.
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