Folks, we’ve checked out this cozy inn in the quaint town of Sidmouth, and it’s got a lot going for it. Just a short jaunt from the beach, it’s a great base for exploring Devon’s charms. The rooms are comfy, the staff is friendly, and there’s even a playground for the kiddos. Plus, you can’t beat the free Wi-Fi and on-site parking.
Now, let’s talk turkey. The place isn’t perfect. Some guests have mentioned that the rooms can be a bit noisy, especially on weekends when the bar gets lively.
And if you’re looking for cutting-edge modern decor, you might be disappointed by the traditional English inn style.
But here’s the bottom line: if you’re after a homey spot with character, good food, and easy access to both beach and countryside, this place fits the bill. It’s ideal for families, couples looking for a romantic getaway, or anyone who wants to experience authentic English hospitality without breaking the bank.
Just remember to pack your earplugs if you’re a light sleeper!
Good To Know
- The Balfour Arms is a 4-star inn located in Sidmouth, Devon, UK, approximately 2.5 km from Sidmouth Beach and 2.8 km from Jacobs Ladder Beach.
- The inn offers a convenient location, with easy access to the town center, local shops, and restaurants, as well as nearby sports and travel destinations.
- Guests can enjoy exceptional facilities, including free WiFi, on-site parking, a restaurant and bar, cozy rooms, a well-maintained garden, and a children’s playground.
- The inn is known for its delightful dining options, including a full English/Irish breakfast, varied meals throughout the day, and accommodations for dietary requirements.
- The inn’s welcoming staff, with a rating of 8.8 out of 10, contribute significantly to the positive guest experiences, as reflected in the impressive 7.6 out of 10 overall rating based on 604 reviews.
Property Overview
The Balfour Arms is a 4-star inn located in Sidmouth, a seaside town in the county of Devon, United Kingdom.
It’s situated just 2.5 km from Sidmouth Beach and 2.8 km from Jacobs Ladder Beach. The property is also conveniently located 18 km from both Sandy Park Rugby Stadium and Exeter International Airport.
Based on 604 reviews, the Balfour Arms has a good rating of 7.6 out of 10. Guests have praised the inn’s excellent breakfast, friendly staff, and clean, comfortable rooms.
Convenient Location
One of the Balfour Arms’ key advantages is its convenient location.
Situated just 2.5 km from Sidmouth Beach and 2.8 km from Jacobs Ladder Beach, the inn provides easy access to the area’s stunning coastal attractions.
Plus, it’s within a short 18 km drive of both the Sandy Park Rugby Stadium and Exeter International Airport, making it an ideal base for sports fans and travelers alike.
The property’s central location near the town center and bus stop also ensures guests can explore Sidmouth’s charming shops and restaurants with ease.
- 2.5 km from Sidmouth Beach
- 18 km from Sandy Park Rugby Stadium
- Close to town center and bus stop
Exceptional Facilities
What sets the Balfour Arms apart is its exceptional facilities. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and on-site parking, ensuring a hassle-free stay.
The inn’s restaurant and bar offer a delightful dining experience, with a range of menu options catering to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Cozy rooms with flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee making facilities provide a comfortable retreat. Guests can unwind in the well-maintained garden and shared lounge, or let the little ones play in the children’s playground.
The Balfour Arms’ facilities cater to the needs of all travelers, making it an attractive choice for those visiting Sidmouth.
Delightful Dining Options
Dining at the Balfour Arms is a delightful experience, with the inn’s restaurant and bar offering a wide range of culinary options.
Guests can start their day with a full English/Irish breakfast, which is included in the room rate.
Throughout the day, the restaurant serves a variety of meals, including:
- Brunch, lunch, and dinner dishes
- Evening meals available Monday to Saturday from 12:00 to 22:30, and on Sundays until 18:30
- Room service for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own room
The menu caters to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all guests.
Welcoming Staff
The staff at the Balfour Arms are praised by guests for their friendly and helpful demeanor. According to reviews, the employees go above and beyond to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay.
They’re attentive to customers’ needs and take the time to offer suggestions on local attractions and dining options. The staff rating of 8.8 out of 10 reflects their commitment to providing excellent service.
Guests have highlighted the staff’s responsiveness to questions and willingness to accommodate special requests. The Balfour Arms’ welcoming and knowledgeable team contributes greatly to the positive guest experience.
Impressive Guest Reviews
Guests’ overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the Balfour Arms’ exceptional hospitality.
With a stellar 8.8 staff rating, visitors praise the friendly and helpful staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. The inn’s cleanliness and comfort also impress, earning ratings of 8.3 and 8.4, respectively.
Guests particularly enjoy:
- The excellent breakfast included in the stay
- The convenient location near the town center and bus stop
- The great value for money
Backed by a strong 7.6 overall rating from 604 reviews, the Balfour Arms provides a truly welcoming and satisfying experience for its visitors.
Flexible Policies
Accommodating guests’ needs, the Balfour Arms offers flexible policies. Visitors can check-in from 14:00 to 22:00 and check-out before 11:00. The property welcomes children of all ages, though cots and extra beds are not available. Pets are allowed in designated areas, and guests can inquire about dog-free rooms. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Accepted payment methods include cash.
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 14:00 to 22:00 |
| Check-out | Until 11:00 |
| Children | Welcome, no cots/extra beds |
| Pets | Allowed in designated areas |
Additional Information
Located just 2.5 km from Sidmouth Beach, the Balfour Arms offers a convenient base for exploring the area.
The inn welcomes children of all ages, but cots and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets are allowed in designated areas, but guests should inquire about dog-free rooms.
Check-in is from 14:00 to 22:00, and check-out is until 11:00.
The property accepts cash as a payment method, and cancellation and prepayment policies may vary by accommodation type.
- Children of any age welcome
- Pets allowed in designated areas
- Check-in from 14:00 to 22:00, check-out until 11:00
Questions About Staying Here
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The information provided does not indicate that the property has a fitness center or gym on-site. The amenities listed focus on accommodations, dining, and general facilities, but do not mention any dedicated fitness facilities.
Do They Offer Any Special Event or Banquet Facilities?
The property does not appear to offer any special event or banquet facilities based on the information provided. The focus seems to be on providing a comfortable inn experience for individual travelers and small groups.
Can Guests Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, though availability may be limited. The hotel’s standard check-in time is 2pm, and check-out is by 11am, but they’ll accommodate requests if possible.
Is There a Designated Smoking Area on the Property?
Based on the provided information, there is no mention of a designated smoking area on the property. The inn is described as non-smoking, indicating smoking is likely not permitted inside or on the grounds.
Do They Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Extended Stays?
The property doesn’t appear to offer any discounts or packages specifically for extended stays. However, guests may want to inquire about any special rates or deals when booking longer visits.
Worth The Stay
The Balfour Arms is a charming 4-star inn that offers guests a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, modern amenities, and exceptional dining options. Nestled in the picturesque town of Sidmouth, it’s the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the Jurassic Coast. With its convenient location, excellent customer service, and impressive guest reviews, the Balfour Arms promises an exceptional experience for both leisure and business travelers.