Commodore Hotel Instow Short Break Success
Commodore Hotel Instow
North Devon for me was always a goto summer holiday destination with Mum and Dad.
Today, it is still popular and you only need to see the amount of key safes for holiday cottages around its nearby coastal villages.
Appledore viewed from Instow. © Geoff Moore.
Places like Appledore where entrance code boxes are such numerous fixtures these days.
Although an alternative shorter break stay in such similar locations are really well catered for too.
The family owned Commodore Hotel, Instow. © Geoff Moore.
Like the smart and friendly Commodore Hotel at nearby Instow. Although rated 3 Star on the sign it’s way above that regarding its food and service!
Lamb rump at the Commodore Hotel. © Geoff Moore.
Family Owned Commodore Hotel
If you do not have time for that whole week away. Then perhaps make a weekend or midweek break of it as The Commodore will fit that slot perfectly.
You get fabulous river views, a soft sandy beach and a delightful dining experience too.
Instow Beach and Appledore view. © Geoff Moore
Located close to the towns of Barnstaple and Bideford with the latter an hour long stroll away along part of the Tarka Trail riverside path and former railway line.
Tarka Trail North Devon. © Geoff Moore
I can see this as a really ideal for couples break location.
Lots in the immediate area, be that by cycle hire or just a short drive away. Like Rosemoor Gardens an RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) property at nearby Torrington .
Sunset view from the Commodore Hotel North Devon. © Geoff Moore
Such breaks are really relaxing especially if not being taken up by driving mile after mile trying desperately pack just too much in.
Spending time just enjoying the immediate area. Taking that time for the nature and the sounds of such a pleasant gentle coastal location.
Appledore and Instow
Located at the junction of the Taw and Torridge rivers. Over the water to Instow another former fishing village. That still has just enough to illustrate what holidays were like back in the 50’s and 60’s.
Instow North Devon. © Geoff Moore
Some nice established cafes, pubs but not overwhelming. Its main riverside and gentle shelving beach area is such a great stop off.
Instow rather than nearby Westward Ho which has a huge beach but has a more boisterous vibe. Illustrating perfectly just how tranquil Instow is.
Enough to be enjoyable and entertaining for a family or couple. But if you are looking for the Blackpool theme then better head to Blackpool.
Instow Beach North Devon. © Geoff Moore
The Instow vibe reflects the peaceful eb and flow of the River Torridge. Itself runs to the sea right in front of the hotel.
A peaceful pace here which is safe and if you have the kids really great for them. No crashing waves to disturb the mind and body or just general potential worries for their seaside safety.
Even the nearby coastal village cricket pitch setting offers a sedate place to pass some time in that traditional and very British restful way of leather on willow.
Former railway line now the Tarka Trail North Devon. © Geoff Moore
Walks along the beach itself or further on the former railway line now part of the Tarka Trail.
Or perhaps a short drive to Woody Bay on the edge of nearby Exmoor. Try out a steam train ride on their dinky set up on a former British Rail, Southern Railway line.
These can get you close to nature and the wildlife that inhabits the maritime area of both rivers and the wild countryside around North Devon in general.
Birds are the winners in terms of numbers, seabirds for sure dominate around both estuaries.
D Day History And The Commodore Hotel
Historically the area is greatly linked to the D Day invasion of France in 1944.
It was around this whole area that the practical invasion techniques were tried and tested often under live firing conditions too.
Mostly with US Army units that were stationed around much of this North Devon coastal area then.
Plus with numerous UK, Canadian and other nations who also practiced in this area of North Devon leading up to the 6th June 1944.
The views from its west facing terrace is a perfect location to watch some amazing sunsets.
Certainly busy in the main summer season.
Commodore Hotel Room. © Geoff Moore
However, my choice would be out of season even Feb/March, April, May, June, September. Also even in October you can be treated to some ‘Indian Summer’ temperatures too.
