Commodore Hotel in North Devon

Where to start with this gem of a place? My partner and I had the pleasure of staying at the Commodore Hotel, and it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and exceptional service. James and his team just can’t do enough for you. When we arrived in Instow our car key broke and he didn’t hesitate to assist us with fixing it - James went above and beyond, and we will be forever grateful!! The room was immaculate, elegantly decorated, and offered a breathtaking view of the beach, sea and beyond. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a great night's sleep. The on-site restaurant was a culinary delight, offering a wide range of delicious dishes, all perfectly prepared. The staff were attentive and made sure my stay was enjoyable. The location was ideal just set back from the promenade and the hotel has its own private parking which is a game changer for people looking to visit Instow. Overall, the Commodore Hotel provided an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for luxury, comfort, and outstanding service. I will definitely be returning, thank you once again to James, Omer and the wonderful team at The Commodore Hotel.

From start to finish, The Commodore Hotel was top notch. Friendly and efficient receptionists, restaurant and housekeeping personnel made our stay very relaxing and special. Excellently presented and delicious food, spacious and comfortable front facing room, likely the cleanest room I've ever stayed in. A pleasure to celebrate a special birthday with the bonus of having fabulous views over to Appledore by the estuary. Will highly recommend The Commodore to family and friends.

Tues 16th The M&S gang Great lunch at the Commodore. The staff are always friendly and the food excellent. We always feel welcomed and the hotel and it views are magnificent. Thanks to Jo and the staff for another great visit. We will be back

Another lovely stay in a stunning location. Great food and excellent staff.

My wife and I stayed at the Commadore for three days in May. Our experience was fantastic from pulling up in the carpark and having our baggage taken from the car straight to our room by the manager. This excellent service continued through out our stay, the staff were so helpful nothing was to much trouble . Our room was very clean and comfortable . All our meals were presented well and tasted delicious . I will recommend the Commadore Hotel to my friends.

Back after 3 years and we were delighted to find the staff, atmosphere and service as good as we remembered it. For the first time we had one of the ground floor marine rooms. Beautifully furnished. clean and warm. Only annoyance was the room door which had an annoying rattle and needed to have a beer mat inserted for a cure!!

We here here in July as part of a tour to celebrate my birthday. It's as great as it's always been and Mark always makes us feel very welcome. He remembered us since we have a very unusual electric tandem, which he's kind enough to let us store overnight in the hotel garage. I think it was room 23 we had and that has a wonderful outlook over well manicured gardens. Food in the restaurant is excellent as always. Cannot fault it and look forward to returning again

A good choice on all courses. As a resident you choose from the menu in advance so know what you will be getting for dinner.

Comfortable rooms, fantastic views, delicious food, all staff were polite, friendly and very obliging. Considering the grand style of the hotel, thought it was reasonably priced.

Spent two nights at this delightful hotel. Stunning views. Food excellent. James, Gary and Jane made this a memorable two nights. Will certainly be back!

Afternoon visit with elderly friends. Greeted at front door with offers of assistance. Hand gel given. Directed into room over looking the water. Plenty of space to move. Staff attentive and pleasant and although wearing masks obvious they smiled. Hot scones and with my preference fruit scones. Although we knew they were closing for a private function later we were not rushed. Lovely view a very enjoyable afternoon. A little more expensive than else where but for this you get space service snd ambience for a special afternoon worth every penny

We were very impressed with the cleanliness standard at this family run hotel. The food was amazing. The views were very beautiful. The staff were very friendly. We would thoroughly recommend a stay at this venue. It ticked all our boxes.

The Commodore Hotel, Instow, EX39 4JN is situated in an outstanding position in the village of Instow overlooking the coast and Appledore. The Commodore opened originally in 1968 by Bruce & Patricia Woolaway, Gary’s parents and later their son Gary became the entrepreneur with the help of his family. Walking up to the Commodore through the grounds is enchanting with views across the beach. On entering the Commodore, Gary stands by the door with a welcoming friendly smile assisting a person to the table or room inside the hotel or outside, nothing is too much trouble for him. Gary is very friendly, good humoured and a Gold Star and such an excellent host with impeccable manners. Inside the Commodore you can feel the ambiance, friendliness and the warmth no other establishment in Instow can match this atmosphere that provides this welcoming feeling. The service is impeccable, all the staff are so friendly and jovial with Gary, the guests, in the restaurant or outside eating – It is such a pleasure to walk through the doors – it is like home. Hence the Commodore is our favourite place in Instow to sit and relax during the week with a lovely cup of fresh tea and whatever is on offer on the menu for that day, Jacket potato, sandwiches, soup, cake, teacake, cream tea, etc. Enjoying the atmosphere, the garden and the lovely scenery or chatting or just pleasantly sitting passing away the time in such an enjoyable charming venue. And on Sunday a person can enjoy the succulent lovely roast lunch. Fabulous place to visit, Gary and his staff will look forward to seeing you, the Commodore is highly recommended - you won’t be disappointed.

Great service good food, good price, the room was bright and airy and they were so helpful to us, it has been redone recently and looks great, very COVID aware and very good at the sanitising after you and others, really recommend the place for food or a stay

The breakfast and afternoon cream teas were excellent although the evening meal menu was very tempting, and we only stayed a few days and mainly travelled around the area during the daytime we were not back in time to sample this excellent menu.

Pretty view of the estuary from our room, and a comfortable, spacious room- tho I missed a bath tub. The staff are very friendly and attentive. Very nice clean rooms and a really delicious and authentic Devon cream tea! You will love it!

I have said it all above, but the view is outstanding as are the staff and particularly the breakfast, although had better orange juice!

What a superb hotel, stunning setting and excellent service. Never been in the hotel before so thought we would have a coffee on the terrace as it was a gorgeous day. Lovely welcome when we arrived and mentioned we lived locally and had a guided tour of the hotel. We didn’t eat but the food look superb albeit a bit more pricey than other places, however the old adage you pay for what you get (or something like that). We be going back for a friends birthday soon.

We four arrived at 2.00pm when food had finished but the staff were so kind that food was able to be provided there and then. We sat in the sun and without asking water was provided for the dogs. The meals soon arrived and we tucked in. A great day was had by all with good food, good service, and reasonable price.

We have just spent a week at the Commodore Hotel in Instow, and I honestly have to say I couldn’t fault itThe position of the Hotel is superb overlooking the sea, it really is one of the prettiest places in Devon in my opinion.The room we had on this occasion, was spacious, and tastefully decorated. There were two large wardrobes and plenty of drawer space, and a feeling of space, that you rarely find in a Hotel room.The Dining room, has had a massive face lift since last year, and is a light, bright eating space, the food is good, breakfast and supper, all served to a good standard But undoubtably, what makes the Commodore so special, is the quality of its staff, they are all so friendly and helpful, and very quickly learn your likes and dislikes! They are the difference between a good Hotel, and an excellent Hotel We will definitely be returning

We live 20 miles from Instow and decided to treat ourselves to an 'Easter dinner experience ' . Having been on occasions over 30 years to the Commodore Hotel decided to try their new Strandfield restaurant. We could not have wished for a better night weatherwise and it was certainly helped by the highest tide of the month.The whole evening was excellent in every way --pre dinner drinks outside overlooking the estuary;the welcome on arrival ; the staff who looked after us so well and the food,especially the seafood starter , has tempted us back as soon as possible !

Great food and friendly service. Chic restaurant with views of beautiful estuary. Good choice on menu all freshly cooked.

A quick visit for lunch I knew there had been renovations so wanted to check them out. The main restaurant is now much brighter there is a sea view from most of the tables. I had lentil roast which was excellent, mother had jacket potato again very nice good size potions. Then we spied a delicious looking dessert go past so we just had to share a Bailey's panacotta it's was really good I could of, in fact eaten it all ! Very nice will definitely go again.

Albeit that we knew the restaurant was not functioning due to upgrading we decided to go ahead and visit for Sunday Lunch which we were informed would be available in the bar. The Commodore is a splendid hotel very tastefully decorated and giving excellent views across the river Torridge to Appledore. However, on this occasion despite the service being much as we would expect at the Commodore we were very disappointed in the food that we ordered. Medium Roast Beef was ordered, but what we got was in fact a very inedible rare beef ! Hence when asked how we enjoyed the meal we had to say that we were very disappointed. Full marks to the Commodore though as they were not only very apologetic, but said there would be no charge for the meal. We will no doubt return at some future date as we're sure that this visit would be by no means the norm.

Check in easy and,as always, the staff were friendly, helpful and efficient.Our room, facing the beach was very pleasant and had a balcony.Food at the hotel was excellent as were the wines.Afternoon cream teas were naughty but nice.Overall, another very pleasant stay.

Had visited in 2009 and 2011 for Cream Tea and loved it. Returned mid September 2018 and the quality had fallen and price increased. Sadly the jam was potted from Essex, does no one make local Jam?, and the scones were heavy and doughy. Did not think it was worth £9.50, had much better in a local cafe for £4.50.

We enjoyed afternoon tea with scones and lemon cake and had the best waitress and view! Everything was tasty so perhaps previous reviewer just hit it on a bad day? This is a lovely place and yes, a bit more upscale than a routine tea shop. Expectations need to be realistic. Anyway, do not hesitate to try for lunch or tea. The food we saw other people having all looked quite nice. Take time to walk to the sea while there. The views are wonderful, especially if you can arrange to go on a nice day. Plenty of room in the car park.

I took two local friends here for an afternoon tea, menu was very sparse . Cream tea, consists of 2 fruit scones, savoury tea 2 cheese scones or a cake of the day! All scones would make good door stops, could not taste any cheese and the lemon cake although tasty was a mere slither for the costly sum of £7.30! Would not recommend here for a afternoon tea, definitely not a cream tea, I feel totally ripped off, £25.20 wasted in my opinion, over priced very poor quality food and no service.

It's a while since we'd been to the Commodore for lunch and we took a chance on there being available tables because it was North Devon Show day. We were lucky enough to be the only people on the terrace in the sunshine with great views over the water to Appledore. The lunch menu is extensive and easily accommodated the diverse tastes of four of us including a vegetarian. They were also happy to substitute items for one of us on a low carb regime. Service was friendly and very efficient - the meals came within ten minutes and the food was very good. The only minor gripe was that chunky chips seem to be getting as large as roast potatoes but this isn't unique to the Commodore. The bill was also modest for such a lovely setting and we will definitely not leave it as long next time to return to the Commodore.

Have just checked out from this hotel and I simply cannot fault it. A beautiful hotel and a simply amazing view. A family led business with such a passion for what they do. Attentive and accommodating. Ordered a meal from the specials board which we ate outside on the terrace as we watched the sunset. Breakfast was immaculate and check out was seamless. The staff really do make the hotel and the cleanliness is 5*. Will definitely be going back.

The Commodore has everything you could wish for ,fantastic view ,good food , staff very good , all ways look forward for next visit , ,

We used to love the Commodore and eat there often. However our last few visits have been disappointing. It was always so reliable but we have not particularly enjoyed the choice of menu and quality of fare on the last few visits, so , sadly, we have stopped going after many years .

My brothers birthday was celebrated with a yummy cream tea, with a view over the estuary. The cream tea for one person was 2 scones, lashings of cream and jam and a pot of tea enough for 3 cups. Will deffo go back when I am in the area.

Called in to this hotel with friends for a Cream Tea, although we were a little earlier than stated on board outside (should have been 3pm). Reception was most accommodating and sent us to a window seat with a wonderful view of the estuary. First time I'd ever been to Instow when the tide's been in, so even more scenic than usual. Two massive warm scones, jam, clotted cream and tea and coffee all served beautifully and with a smile. Would thoroughly recommend this venue.

Let’s cut to the chase on why you should choose the Commodore Hotel.

Had an amazing stay here for the new year , super time fabulous food , the staff went the extra mile for us , nothing was too much trouble, great entertainment and the food menu was well thought out, the beef Wellington was fabulous.

I was part of a group of 14 who enjoyed one of the set Christmas Lunch menus at The Commodore. It was my first visit and I certainly wasn't disappointed. We were shown to a

On a recent visit to the West Country visiting friends, we decided on lunch at this Hotel. In beautiful surroundings and amazing views this is an ideal place to meet up with friends . We were greeted at the entrance and escorted into the eating area near to the Bar. We chose the lunch menu. We ordered at the bar and at the same time our drinks. Staff on hand were helpful and friendly. When the food arrived we were not disappointed, Salmon Prawn salad, Gammon Steak and Battered Haddock, all of the best quality and presentation. For dessert we had 2 creme Caramel, I refrained as I was stuffed to bursting point. In lovely surroundings with amazing views what more could you ask for. So on the basis of this experience I have no hesitation in recommending the Lunch menu at the Commodore at Instow.

Fancied a coffee before we went out for lunch we do love going to the comodore for a coffee views amazing boats to see sat down had a lovely latte on comfy chairs a lovely lady in the bar she has been there a few times we have been going very friendly there was also a cat in there think he lives there he is lovely def go again next time maybe stay on my wish list

A friend quickly suggested meeting for lunch at the Commodore when we said we would be close by on visit to North Devon. I had not visited Instow since the 1950s and it proved an excellent choice. We arrived to find ample parking. Our guest had already taken a table in one of the rooms forming part of the Quarterdeck Bar, with a fine view across the estuary to Appledore and out towards the ocean. Service was attentive but not overbearing. Somehow the whole experience underlined the fact that this is a family-owned and managed hotel, not part of a formulaic chain. We perused both the standard light lunch menu and the daily specials list, and all elected different seafood options. We ordered from the bar and enjoyed meals that suited us well. Going light on main courses, we left room to enjoy the dessert choices. Well worth a visit for the best sort of traditional English coastal experience; for lunch, at least, a sense of calm efficiency, with understated, discreet style in a fine location.

The hotel sits on the river front and enjoys first class views across the river to Appledore. The staff are all very friendly and make an effort to ensure we enjoyed our stay. The food standard remains high with a good variety . The lunch time trade speaks for the popular nature of this place with the local population. Book a sea view room for an all day change of interest.We look forward to our return visit.

Visited the area on a cloudy and windy Saturday. Had my elderly mother in law with us with limited mobility. We saw this hotel as we passed and we stopped to see if they did a lunch menu. Parking was easy in their own car park.

Quick visit for us for drinks and took in the wonderful views across instow. Had lovely relaxing time seated outside with our drinks. A little expensive but it would be for a hotel. We enjoyed our visit and will probably be back again.

Hemos cenado ella en varias ocasiones y siempre encontrará el personal amable y servicial. Teníamos una mesa en el patio y parecía por el césped a Appledore en un día glorioso sol. La comida era tan buena como la vista es muy bueno.

Mi marido y yo estamos enamorados y curry en descubrir que el Hotel Commodore tenían en su menú llamamos. Fue una tarde soleada muy cálida así que todas las mesas en el exterior fueron tomadas. Nos sentamos en una zona encantadora con vistas al estuario. Pero lo que con el calor del sol a través de las ventanas, que no abre y el calor de la curry nos alojamos sólo el tiempo suficiente para comer y por una cerveza. El personal era encantador y amable, ya que no había reservado previamente. Curry era el calor para mí, pero probablemente no lo suficiente para mi marido! Eran deliciosos. popadums crujientes Sin duda recomendaría sobre nuestra experiencia, pero quizás introducir más aire en el comedor, cuando hacía mucho calor.

We had a lovely dinner last night with family and friends. The smoked trout was perfectly prepared and just the right size as a starter. Followed by duck which was beautiful. A very enjoyable evening.

Overlooking the beach and the estuary at Instow and looking across the water to Appledore,(but unlike Appledore, has the benefit of late afternoon sun). The accommodation is the best in the area, definitely up-market and very comfortable. The Restaurant has views out over the Waterfront and Beach.

A lovely hotel, beautiful location, stunning views, delicious food and such friendly staff, what more could you ask for? We'll definitely be returning!

My wife and I visited the Commodore with our son between Christmas and New Year for a bar meal and were not disappointed. We all had the chicken curry - my wife had the half portion which is always a useful option for those with modest appetites. The food was served fairly quickly and was hot and tasty. It came with poppadoms and a mango chutney. We also all had the same pudding of chocolate brownies. We asked for the clotted cream to be replaced with ice-cream which wasn't a problem - a good decision as the pudding was quite rich although still delicious. We have been here many times and always feel we get value for money. The bar meal menu is varied and should provide options for most people. The staff are fantastic - very friendly and extremely courteous, especially the lady behind the bar who served us!

Words can not describe how delightful this family owned hotel actually is spotless with Fabulous staff attention to detail plus views like no other food excellent faultless a bit of old Britain with old fashioned British service all rolled into one well done owners Gary James William Sharon and all the staff don't change a thing as got it perfect ! A must for all hotel and restaurant connisurs.

Top quality Sunday lunch, 3 courses with lots of choice, great setting, with the best views for miles. Great for couple, families, special occasions, etc.

When in North Devon you should dine at least once at the commodore hotel Instow, with a Tropical ambience, this delightful hotel offer Light lunches in the bar area and evening meals in the more formal restaurant, we visited as a group of eight at lunch time and all selected from the lite lunch menu with selection to suit all tastes at affordable prices .

Because we had a meal inclusive deal we had very little incentive to find alternative places to eat.

We have stayed here before and found food and service to be first class. Really enjoyed the Sunday evening buffet. Also attended a funeral wake last year! Just called here in the week for a coffee and again so good to experience such pleasant service by such pleasant staff. thank you.

Great place to meet up with a friend. Delightful lunch from the bar siting at the best table in the hotel looking out over the Torridge Estuary. Very good choice on the lunch menu with several dishes available as half portions which was ideal for my wife who had the beer battered haddock and chips myself and our friend had a tortilla wrap filled with goat cheese ,pesto and other ingredients accompanied with sweet potato chips and salad. All the staff very pleasant and helpful.

We went to the Commodore on the off chance of getting a bar snack. We were greeted by friendly staff as well as the owner. We were shown to a table with fantastic views across the estuary. The food was well presented and tasted fantastic. An all round wonderful experience

Lovely lunchtime meal of fish and chips with a friend. had never been to this hotel before and it was really lovely. A couple at the next table were obviously regulars because the waiter said and what is it going to be today then as if he saw them regularly.

Visited restaurant with grandchildren. This is a place where we have eaten fairly regularly and food normally quite good. On this occasion, near end of lunchtime service, my chips were overcooked so much that they broke in two when trying to pierce them with a fork! The fish accompanying the chips had a very fishy taste suggesting to me that it was not of the freshest quality. This review not good and in my opinion not up to the usual standards of this venue

Fantastic food , beautifully cooked and presented. Fantastic full english breakfastDining room is lovely with the most fantastic viewStaff fantasticThoroughly enjoyed our stay there for a week

Visited here again as a member of a large party. I was hoping it would be better quality food and service than on our previous visit, but unfortunately it was worse, hence my rating. I ordered the starter Tian of crab....what a watery and tasteless disgusting sloppy mess. Not a single bit of this dish was good...seriously do not know what the chef is thinking here. My partner said the duck starter was delicious. My main course of roast beef was pink but my partner's was well done not pink as requested. However, the roast potatoes were a little greasy, the gravy wasn't real gravy (so easy to do too!) and really salty. The yorkshire pudding was burnt and where was the fresh veg? The only greens were peas and leeks in a gloopy mess with pieces of bacon. At this time of year there is a plethera of fresh veg available...enough said. The dessert was passable...white chocolate parfait with passionfruit, coconut and pineapple. Just as well because i was so disappointed at this point. My partner had the tart but stated that the nicest part of it was the ice cream. I was also being glared at constantly by one of the male waiting staff, not entirely sure why...he was also a bit too over friendly. Not everyone likes his sort of banter...and it especially wasn't appreciated by my 89 year old grandad. I will not be returning any time soon out of choice. Such a let down for such a beautiful venue.

Asked for 3 hot drinks at 9.40am )whilst people were still in the breakfast room) but were made to feel like it was a terrible burden on them 'as they don't open to non-residents until 10am' - but they still managed it within about 5 minutes. My feedback letter has been unanswered, awful service level for such a simple request.

We had an excellent lunch. The prices may make you think twice about lunch but the quality was superb. My favourite lunch of our week's holiday was the burger here. Generous portions, and worth the spend. Views were lovely across the estuary and we were allowed to sit outside with the dog.

Went with my Father and daughter for lunch.Lovely food along with a super view out over the beach, sea to Appledore on a sunny day.

We were recommended to The Commodore by our B&B for dinner. We didn't reserve a table but it wasn't a problem. We were there on a Saturday evening and ate in the lounge area - not the dedicated restaurant. Food came without delay - a good menu with lots of choice - and excellent service. I'd highly recommend to travellers a an alternative to pub grub in a lovely location....

We had 2 battered hake and sweet potato french fries, chicken curry with rice and a vegetarian dish of roast vegetables. The fish was fresh and tasty but the batter was greasy. The chicken pieces in the curry were quite tough. The service was quite good until desserts were ordered and these took a long time coming. The desserts were tasty. We ate in the bar area of this hotel. The views of the bay were excellent but am afraid that I would not choose to eat again in bar area again. We paid highly for basic pub grub.

Great location. You can eat with a view of the estuary and Appledore. The food was average. Disappointing for the hotel prices you pay. I've been back hoping for improvement but won't be returning until I hear better things about this place. Shame as it could be excellent.

Three of us had lunch here whilst visiting Instow. The food, while not cheap, was good value for what it was. Pleasant and friendly staff and a nice setting.

In Instow, I'm a local and I can tell you a trip to the Commodore is a very special occasion. Silver service is the usual. Adding to that is the delightful Woolaway family who not only run the best hotel in North Devon, but also serve food fit for the Queen. My USA family have used the hotel accommodations and cannot speak highly enough of the venue. What a star!

Wonderful views across the river and out to sea. Cannot comment on the rooms because I have only been for meals at this venue. Unfortunately the food really lets it down. Have been for parties, wakes, meals and bar snacks and the food is always mediocre. Such a shame because the staff are lovely.

Food was enjoyable although portions served for main course were rather small. Atmosphere was pleasant and dining room was comfortable. We had requested if it was possible to book a window table and was advised this was not an option. Upon arriving at the restaurant we found that other customers had reserved window tables.To summarise, the meal was tasty, well served but a little expensive for what we had and rather annoyingly some could reserve a window table but not others.

Lovely outlook, great food. Happy Staff very helpful and friendly.. Lovely walks along the beach can take your dogs as well.

It was January and it was not 'holiday' weather. We were staying in Bideford and decided to go to Instow for a long coffee. We enjoyed sitting in the lounge at the Commodore, drinking coffee, enjoying the view. Staff very pleasant.

Just a lovely hotel situated westward-facing overlooking the estuary at Instow. Service with lovely smiles throughout and nothing is too much trouble! Do not miss this special haven of heaven.

Thankyou once again to the lovely family and staff who run this charming hotel. We visited with our parents for a birthday celebration, we were given the same room as previous stay a Marine room, wonderful view and nicely decorated.The food was truly wonderful. Can't wait for our next stay!

Lovely well run hotel and restaurant As you would expect food good but nothing more staff attentive and friendly view stunning

I ordered the risotto of the day. An extremely small portion arrived. It said on the menu that it was topped with Parmesan and rocket, which made it sound appetising. . It came with neither. I asked if I could have some and a member of staff brought out a bowl of a few Parmesan shavings, put it on the table and said 'we've run out of rocket and the chef says he's sorry' I think this should be made clear when ordering if this is the case. The risottos was salty and vegetables were absent apart from a few peas and a few pieces of barely cooked red onion. It was expensive in the first place but £12 for a small bowl of rice and a few peas was ridiculous! Not impressed at all.

We visited here as a family party of 14 for sunday lunch. The waiter service in the lounge room, fetching our drinks and being so attentive was what i thought was a great sign of things to come...Our orders were taken swiftly and we didn't wait long for our starters, although our vegetarian diner had to wait until a couple of minutes after the rest of us had ours. They were received well, although the soup wasn't served overly hot. Mains then came out, most of them, yet again, the vegetarian person at our table was served last and a couple of minutes after the rest of us. Unfortunately the carrots were overcooked and a little mushy, my pork was bland and fatty, the gravy didn't taste of much and my yorkshire pudding was cold and chewy. Comments about the beef were good. The vegetarian risotto dish was more like savoury rice than a creamy risotto unfortunately and the halibut dish was the best of all. Also, as most of us had finished our initial drinks, i was very suprised that not one of the waiting staff asked if we needed more drinks. A couple of us asked for another drink, but i did think it strange that we weren't asked. There was a little wait for desserts...which were a complete let down save the spiced plum crumble. The baked cheesecake was dense and dry, possibly overcooked. A sauce might have helped. The 'pavlova' was just brittle meringue with cream, strawberries and an odd synthetic tasting cherry/raspberry sauce smeared over the plate. Awful! And the cheeseboard was old bland tasting cheese that was wrapped up for the dogs! Such a shame. We did have a lovely family catchup though, which was the main thing. And after reading other reviews on here, i'd maybe return, but not for the sunday lunch menu.

Family run by the Woolaway family for many years this hotel overlooks the beach and village of Appledore on the other side of the River Torridge. Very good bar meals served to non residents as well. The restaurant is very good with varied a la carte menu. Comfortable bar, regularly refurbished bedrooms decorated to high standards.

We were unable to reserve a table at the restaurant as they were full, so on advice from our local B&B hosts we ate at the Commodore's Bar. What a treat. The staff were delightful, the choice of wine excellent and the food delicious. I opted for the Lamb Meatball tagine with Bulgar Wheat and it was superb. Fragrant with a little heat, even the Bulgar Wheat was imaginatively flavoured with herbs (coriander I think). The combination was scrummy. Great value too.

Possibly my most bizarre restaurant service experience yet!First, the positives; lovely location, food actually very good, and clearly loyal, elderly custom.My concern is with the owner's attitude to customer service...just plain wrong and hugely arrogant. I ate lunch here with my elderly mother, a local resident. It was busy, as you'd expect on a sunny autumn day, but management clearly take that as a profit opportunity and not a reason to staff their restaurant to cope with volume. My mother asked where our food was after waiting 40 minutes and were told by a waiter that it would be 5 minutes. No apology when he did deliver it though, just threw it down.I then joined a queue of three at the bar to pay. One barmaid was doing ok but she really needed a lot of help. Management ignored this. The queue became 6 deep and the waiter decided it would be funny to make a joke of this....not so funny when you've been waiting for 15 minutes just to pay so I pointed out that it would be more useful if he helped behind the bar....didn't go down well and he huffed off. A few minutes later he passed my mother and I as we left and made a sarcastic comment that he really hoped that he'd not delayed our 'so important' day....this really took my mother aback.At that point I turned to find the manager/owner and he appeared pointing at me and saying that 'I was the one who had upset his son'....it would be reasonable to conclude that the waiter in question was just a lad but no, he is at least 35 but clearly still needs his dad to look after him in public! The owner then told me to 'step outside so he could sort me out'.....seriously! They were both shouting at me to keep my voice down which was odd as I hadn't yet spoken! I explained, calmly, that service was shocking and his son was rude and I was told that I was no longer welcome! They seem obsessed with asking 'who you think you are?'.....just a customer is the answer, just like anyone else, with a reasonable expectation of service!It was just very bizarre...they clearly don't like any form of complaint and are happy that their customers aren't the sort that do. It's a shame though...they clearly think that taking money off local pensioners is more important than delivering service...as a result, north Devon will continue to miss out on the tourist income it so badly needed as local owners are too arrogant to seek to improve. Ironically, my family have lived locally for generations so I am actually in a position to comment.This place is just appalling if you have a vague expectation of service, and they do seem to think it's reasonable to physically challenge customers if they complain! At some point they will over step the mark and be in all kinds of trouble. Rude and arrogant.

Although dogs are not permitted in the hotel, it was a warm sunny day so we could sit out on the sun terrace where dog water bowls were provided. The hotel has parking which to be honest was the main reason we stopped here. But the food and service were good as well. I enjoyed the speciality fishcakes. There is a good view across the Torridge to Appledore.

The view is fantastic - straight onto the beach and sea at Instow; the service is excellent but the Sunday lunch was disappointing . There is a set menu of three courses, which we happen to find one course too many and thus the price is in excess of £18.00. The starters were enjoyable but the main courses and puddings were not. The Clovelly Longhorn beef promised much and delivered very little - extremely thinly cut, a strange stretchy texture and little flavour. The vegetables looked and tasted mass produced and the Yorkshire pudding was over cooked and cold. Did we complain? Shamefully, no - because we very much like the owners and always enjoy the bar meals. So we will return , but not for Sunday lunch.

I'm in disbelief that Johns of Instow is listed by you as No.1, in places to eat in Instow.There is no seating area, and Johns is a shop with a deli counter, that also serves takeaway coffee, sandwiches etc.The cakes are out on the counter,uncovered and extremely close to where customers wait to be served.This is not good practise.

Food surpassed that which I have enjoyed at top city hotels. Service was also excellent. Restaurant and lounge facilities (coffee) were pleasant, well laid out, with staff which matched the food.

We went here with friends who live locally. The location and external appearance of this hotel is lovely right on the beach but the food quality did not match the exterior. It was a very busy Saturday evening so maybe this coloured our experience, although the staff coped very well, and were friendly and helpful. Two of us had scampi and chips which were average quality though the chips were good, two of us had beef burgers ( meat lovely, sauce tasty, bun very dry ) and the other meals were not memorable. Nice for a coffee and cake but don't bother with the meals....

We recently stayed in Instow. We used the Commodore for a few meals during that time and each time we provided with great service and good food. Although not staying at the hotel we were treated very well by all the staff and were even recognised on our return visits. The hotel has a lovely feel to it and we enjoyed dinner on the terrace watching the sun go down. The atmosphere is relaxed with the hotel residents having a G&T before dinner (with a slightly older clientele rather than a young, high energy). Even with 2 teenage daughters we enjoyed our first meal enough to return for another dinner and lunch and simply relax over dinner and drinks. Would definitely recommend if in the area.

All chose the smaller portion curry... 4 chicken 1 king prawn... then finished off with a lush pud... buttermilk pannacotta... strawberries/ ice cream sundae and a combo of honeycombe and chocolate ice-cream sundae..a pot of tea for us all to finish the evening off.We all thought the smaller meal was a bit pricey for what we had. Be warned though... if you chose the restaurant be sure to ask that if it a set meal or a choice off the menu... felt ever so slightly patronized when I asked if we could chose off the menu as we didn't want a set meal and was not informed that a set meal was the case for a restaurant booking...the reply was...''thought you might say that''.... set meal £31.50!!! All in all a pleasant meal but not sure about the fluffy ginger cat strolling around where food is served.. We ended up having our tables laid up in the small lounge as the menu we chose from wasn't the restaurant...still had the river view so that was nice.

I had a last minute booking for my school reunion trip and they could not have been nicer. One of the cleanest friendliest hotels I have ever stayed in. Thank you for such a lovely stay...I will be back

This hotel is set well back from the road and has beautiful views across the river. It is beautifully furnished and the staff are attentive, friendly and efficient. The food is excellent.

The Commodore continues its tradition of being welcoming. It is in a superb position overlooking the beach and estuary at Instow and the staff are always very professional yet very friendly. On this occasion we took an Australian guest there for tea and she was delighted with the experience. We could not manage a full cream tea but ordered tea and Danish pastries- which were served warm and were really delicious. It is one of our favourite local places for lunch, tea or coffee and never disappoints us. Highly recommended.

Walk into the Commodore for lunch and you'll just love the classy feel.But the place is not stuffy and the staff, although well turned out and smart, are superbly helpful.We had lunch out on the terrace, a bit breezy but with a great view across to Appledore. It's the sort of place that you think will have big prices for small amounts of food but the meals are generous for size and great for value.

They do a lovely cream tea in the afternoons which can be had on the terrace overlooking the sea, or if you prefer it can be taken in the lounge or bar. But where they excel is with their evening gourmets meals. These meals are absolutely delicious, and served by attentive and friendly staff in the restaurant overlooking the sea where you can watch the stunning sunsets.

Visited the Commodore recently for the second time. A great hotel with superb staff, heavenly food and a fantastic room. What a friendly hotel this is. There is nothing to fault it. The location is fine and the views from the terrace, bedrooms and dining room absolutely stunning. One of the other good points is they do not take advantage with the price of wine! We can't wait to go back again. Wholeheartedly recommended.

We stopped here for coffee during our days cycling trip. Drinks for 5 of us was £12. We sat outside and the view was lovely. All staff were very friendly. Anywhere where the manager calls me sir is always worth an extra star!!

We are regular visitors to this lovely hotel for lunch or an evening meal or bar snack. The situation is idyllic on a sunny day, sitting outside and looking across the water at Appledore you could be looking at a Greek island. The staff are always delightful and friendly and give excellent service, most have been there for many years so that shows it's a happy place to work, which is reflected in the service. James, as soon as he sees the car arrive, gets me a Prosecco with his own finishing touch of thinly ribboned orange peel, which gives it an extra fizz! The salads and wraps are terrific and they will accommodate you if you want something that is not on the menu. For us, yesterday it was a prawn wrap! I would recommend just for the view but the bonus are the staff, Annette and Jane and their sweet potato fries! Yum!

This small family run hotel has estuary views to die for! Extremely high service standards, quality food & great menu choice. Prices excellent value for money bearing in mind the hotel quality, especially the lunches, I.e. freshly made crab cakes & salad with sweet chilli dressing for under £6!A wonderful place to share a plate & chilled prosecco on the terrace on a sunny day - cannot think of anywhere more stunning to do so.

I've not stayed in the hotel, although if the restaurant is any indication of the quality to be found there, I'd welcome the opportunity. This is seaside England the way you might have imagined, looking more like a Mediterranean resort than a Gothic building cluster. Yes, there are palm trees in England! The lobby is sleek and it felt like they'd freshly painted everything white just for us. The restaurant was sparsely occupied on a blustery night and the menu somewhat limited (maybe there is more choice during high season) but everything we had was delicious. While the food was not particularly innovative, the dishes were tasty modern interpretations of classics.