The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Beach photoThe Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Exterior photoThe Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Exterior photo

The Downs, Babbacombe – A Favorite for Families in Torquay

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Check rooms and rates
From$169 /night
Check-in
16Jun
Check-out
17Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Seafront, 41-43 Babbacombe Downs Road, Babbacombe, Torquay, Torquay, TQ1 3LN
-
Close to Babbacombe Beach
Very good
7.8
8.3
/10
5.0
4.6
/5

Rooms with sea views

The Downs offers 12 en-suite rooms, 8 with balconies overlooking Lyme Bay. Rooms include pocket-sprung beds, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and Temple Spa toiletries. Some rooms have baths with overhead showers. Family rooms can connect to form larger suites. Dogs are allowed in select rooms for an additional fee.

Local and award-winning dining

Breakfast includes fresh fruit, pastries, and hot dishes like eggs and pancakes. The restaurant serves two-course dinners for £25.95, featuring locally sourced ingredients like Brixham fish and River Teign mussels. The forecourt café offers Devonshire cream teas and ice cream made with clotted cream.

Cliffside leisure and attractions

Babbacombe Downs, a short walk away, has a cliff railway leading to Oddicombe Beach. Nearby attractions include Babbacombe Model Village, Kent's Cavern, and the Babbacombe Theatre with variety shows. The English Riviera offers cycling routes, beaches, and events like the Babbacombe Festival in June.

Seafront location and access

The hotel is on Babbacombe Downs Road, 1.9 miles from Torquay Harbour. Bus stops are 100 meters away, with direct links to Torquay. The nearest train station is 3 miles away. Taxis are available for transfers. Babbacombe Beach and the cliff railway are within walking distance.

Family and pet services

Children under 2 stay free; travel cots and high chairs are available. Breakfast can be served in shifts for families. Dogs are welcome in most areas, with water bowls and towels provided. The concierge can arrange picnics, beach hampers, and local activity bookings.

“The Downs, Babbacombe strikes me as a genuinely welcoming, family-run place with striking sea views, particularly from the balcony rooms. I'm impressed by their commitment to local produce, especially for their award-winning breakfasts, and how they accommodate pets in such a thoughtful way. It's the kind of place where the owners' personal touch makes all the difference, setting it apart in Torquay.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
  • Small Double Room
    2 persons
    7 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Balcony
    Heating
  • Double Room Rear View 2nd Floor
    2 persons
    13 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Compact Double Room Balcony Sea View 2nd Floor
    2 persons
    7 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Balcony
    Heating
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!
June 2026 - June 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Very good
7.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Concierge desk
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Tennis court
  • Bowling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Aqua park
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Downs in Babbacombe promises a delightful dining experience with a charming mix of traditional British fare and tantalizing Asian dishes. Expect to be welcomed by friendly staff in a warm atmosphere perfect for guests seeking comfort and authenticity.
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo
The Downs, Babbacombe Hotel Torquay Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British
Ambiance
Traditional setting offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual dining.
Key Offerings
A delightful menu that features vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, allowing guests to indulge in comforting British classics. The unique touch of chef Werner, who may greet diners with a yodel, adds to the charm.
Reservation
Yes
Hours vary.

Lounge Bar

Asian, Thai, and Chinese
Ambiance
A charming lounge that welcomes dogs, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for all guests.
Key Offerings
Breakfast options range from boiled eggs with soldiers to fluffy pancakes, crafted to delight even the youngest of palates. The evening menu showcases the best examples of Asian cuisine at competitive prices.
Reservation
No
Breakfast and dinner.

The Downs, Babbacombe Location

Seafront, 41-43 Babbacombe Downs Road, Babbacombe, Torquay, Torquay, TQ1 3LN
Explore Torquay
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Babbacombe Beach
8 minutes' walk
Family-friendly beach known for its sandy shore and calm waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Babbacombe Model Village
7 minutes' walk
Stunning miniature village featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and intricate model buildings, perfect for all ages.
Kents Cavern
5 minutes' drive
Prehistoric caves offering guided tours, showcasing fascinating geological formations and ancient history.
Torquay United FC
14 minutes' walk
Local football club with a passionate fan base. Catch a match for an authentic UK sporting experience.
Water Sports
11 minutes' walk
Thrilling water sports available at Oddicombe Beach including kayaking and paddleboarding for adventure seekers.
Cockington Country Park
8 minutes' drive
Serene park with walking trails, a beautiful manor house, and craft shops, perfect for relaxation and picnics.
The Buccaneer Inn
1 minute' walk
Casual pub featuring hearty British fare, local ales, and a warm atmosphere ideal for families and casual diners.
Angels Tea Rooms
1 minute' walk
Charming tea room known for its delightful afternoon teas and homemade cakes, perfect for a cozy break.
Royal Carvery
1 minute' walk
Family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of roast meats and sides, accommodating dietary needs with a relaxed vibe.
Riviera International Centre
8 minutes' drive
Events and entertainment hub hosting concerts, exhibitions, and fitness activities for all ages.
Torquay's Dinosaur World
25 minutes' walk
Family attraction featuring life-sized dinosaur models, interactive exhibits, and fun activities for children.
Tips on navigating the city
  • City Centre
    Torquay 26 min  ·  1.3 mi
  • Airports
    Exeter International (EXT) 64 min  ·  26.2 mi
  • Train
    Torre Train Station 30 min  ·  1.6 mi
    Torre Railway Station 30 min  ·  1.6 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 21 min  ·  1.1 mi
Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway
Book now and enjoy exclusive rates on your family vacation!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:30-21:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
11

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests consistently praise the hotel's location and the stunning views, especially from rooms with a balcony where one can enjoy colorful lights at night. The breakfasts are also a highlight, with many appreciating the fresh, local produce and the homemade omelette. Some guests have noted that the bar can be empty, but overall, the hotel provides a comfortable stay with ample room and super kingsize beds.
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Review score
Based on 24 verified reviews
8.6 /10
Great
92 %
Recommend
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.3/10
Facilities
7.4/10
Cleanliness
7.5/10
Pros
Excellent breakfast
Friendly staff
Comfortable bed
Walk-in shower
Cons
No parking
High cost
Dated place
Upper floors
Guest reviews
based on 24 reviews
8.6/10
based on 38 reviews
7.8/10
Mark from United Kingdom
Couple
Compact Double Room Balcony Sea View 1st Floor
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 24, 2025
6/10

Views Didn't Fully Compensate

unfriendly host neglected atmosphere
The arrival was a little rough. The host seemed uninterested after my long drive. It felt as if the owners were just going through the motions and maybe didn't care for the place anymore.
0 Helpful
Jayden from Australia
Couple
standard double room balcony sea view
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 22, 2025
7/10
excellent location local produce empty bar unwelcoming host
the location was excellent. the breakfast included fresh, local produce (i especially liked the homemade omelette!).
the bar was empty. the host didn't seem very cute on arrival (i think the owners might be losing interest in the business).
0 Helpful
Sophia from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Double Room Balcony Sea View
5 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 12, 2025
9.0/10

Charming Stay with Amazing Views

kingsize bed white linen helpful host fresh ingredients
The room featured a super kingsize bed with ample space. Fresh white linen was on the bed. Hosts offered helpful tips about local attractions and dining. Breakfast included a delicious homemade omelette with fresh, local ingredients.
Parking was available in a nearby council car park, though it required a daily fee or permit.
Location
9/10
The hotel's situation is very convenient, with easy access to the beach. It is a short walk away. Multiple restaurants and the theatre are within walking distance. That added to the overall appeal of the location, I thought.
Facilities
9/10
The room has a balcony that provides amazing views, especially at night when colourful lights illuminate the road. Breakfasts feature fresh, local produce, including homemade omelettes tailored to your taste. It was nice.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
FAQs
About The Downs, Babbacombe
What is the distance between The Downs, Babbacombe and Exeter International Airport?
The Downs, Babbacombe is located 41 km from Exeter International Airport.
What time is check-in and check-out at The Downs, Babbacombe?
Check-in time is from 15:30 and check-out time is by 10:00.
What dining options are available at The Downs, Babbacombe?
The guest house features an on-site restaurant that specializes in British cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options.
What room amenities are provided at The Downs, Babbacombe?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and luxurious complimentary toiletries.
How far is The Downs, Babbacombe from the nearest beach?
Oddicombe Beach is less than 1 km away from The Downs, Babbacombe.
Are there attractions near The Downs, Babbacombe?
Nearby attractions include Babbacombe Model Village and Babbacombe Theatre, both within walking distance.
What recreational activities does The Downs, Babbacombe offer?
Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding area.
What types of rooms are available at The Downs, Babbacombe?
The Downs, Babbacombe offers single, twin, double, family rooms, and suites that can accommodate up to eight people.
Is there a bar available at The Downs, Babbacombe?
Yes, The Downs, Babbacombe features a fully licensed bar and lounge area for guests.
What are the highlights of a stay at The Downs, Babbacombe?
Highlights include a terrace with panoramic sea views, award-winning breakfasts, and a dog-friendly environment.
Does The Downs, Babbacombe have any family-friendly features?
The property is child-friendly with accommodations for families and is endorsed by Child Friendly Matters.

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