Discovering the Charm of England’s Best B&B in Torquay

A recent stay at a boutique bed and breakfast in Torquay has transformed how reporter Katie Boyden and her partner view travel accommodations. Celebrating their seventh anniversary, they chose to spend the weekend at The 25, which was recently recognized as England’s best B&B at the AA’s annual tourism awards.

Located in Devon on the picturesque ‘English Riviera’, Torquay is renowned for its scenic beaches and boat tours featuring seal-watching. Initially skeptical about the choice of destination, Boyden discovered that this coastal town offers more than just its shoreline.

The couple’s stay at The 25, situated just off the main road, was marked by a warm welcome from new owners Jason and Marsela. They had taken over the B&B only days before the couple’s arrival, yet their enthusiasm was palpable. A framed note from actress Joanna Lumley graced the walls, underscoring the establishment’s charm.

Guests at The 25 can expect an impressive array of amenities. Boyden and her partner enjoyed a supremely comfortable bed and exceptional service throughout their stay. Breakfast served each morning included homemade yogurts, pastries, fruit pots, and perfectly poached eggs, topped off with a “smoothie shot of the day.”

Jason expressed his excitement about the potential for the B&B, stating, “We know a lot of B&Bs close down over the winter period, but I think there’s an opportunity here to stay open longer; there’s so much to do here.” He emphasized their commitment to maintaining high standards and making the most of their new venture in Torquay.

Although the weather was overcast during the couple’s visit in late September, they enjoyed warm temperatures and remained dry throughout their trip. Their first night included a visit to Twenty1, a popular tapas and cocktail bar offering stunning views of the harbor, where they sampled a delightful lychee margarita and local craft beer.

The next day, Boyden and her partner ventured to Kents Caverns, where they explored ancient geological formations and sampled Quicke’s Cave-aged Clothbound Cheddar. Their seaside stroll allowed them to appreciate the stunning rock formations while searching for seals in the waves.

After their explorations, they stopped at The Yacht for truffle parmesan fries before heading to Bistrot Pierre for dinner. Returning to The 25, they experienced personalized service that set it apart from typical accommodation options.

During breakfast, Boyden mentioned their anniversary to Jason and Marsela, who surprised them later with a bottle of pink prosecco and a thoughtful card. Additionally, after she expressed concern about the lengthy drive home, they prepared a goody bag filled with snacks and drinks to ease the journey.

Reflecting on their experience, Boyden remarked on the genuine care and attention to detail they received, which contrasted sharply with budget accommodations they had previously chosen.

As they drove back to Kent, the couple made a pact: future anniversary trips would prioritize unique stays like The 25, even if it meant higher costs. Their experience highlighted the true value of personalized service and special touches that create lasting memories.

Katie and Robert stayed in the Torre suite at The 25 for £225 per night, including breakfast. Prices range from £125 to £275 per night, depending on room type and season. Their journey underscores the importance of selecting accommodations that enhance the travel experience, making each getaway memorable.