Glebe House: Is This Devon’s Most Charming Hotel?

Nestled in the heart of East Devon and with beautiful views overlooking the Coly Valley, Glebe House is the quintessential countryside retreat. A charming guest house with just seven bedrooms, this cosy and characterful smallholding really is a ‘home away from home’.

Review: Glebe House, Devon

STAY

For some, relaxation means lying on a beach or enjoying the serenity of a spa – but for me, nothing compares to unwinding in the British countryside. Breathing in the fresh air, soaking up the tranquility, and savouring local delights. A rural staycation is the perfect escape, and that’s exactly what Glebe House offers.

A former vicarage, the picturesque Georgian guest house sits on a hilltop above the village of Southleigh. The views are breathtaking. Think rolling hills that stretch endlessly, a spectacular landscape where you can truly lose yourself in the beauty of bucolic surroundings. 

A family-run establishment, owner Hugo Guest grew up in the house, in which his parents ran a cosy bed and breakfast. Since then, he and his wife Olive have preserved the homely and hospitable nature of Glebe, perfecting menus, maintaining the 15-acre grounds, and creating a relaxed space for their guests. 

Inside, the bedrooms are full of character, designed with a vibrant, whimsical aesthetic, complete with charming details from freestanding bathtubs to period fireplaces and original artworks – some of which are the works of owner Olive. Each room is unique, such as Southleigh Wood, a cosy cabin nestled within the gardens and complete with a private outdoor fireclay bathtub. Or there’s the Morning Room, named after its magnificent views over the Coly Valley and Morning Cover. Four-legged friends are also welcome in The Old Kitchen and Southleigh Wood. 

Elsewhere in the house, you’ll discover two homey living areas with fireplaces – the perfect spot to devour a cup of tea and a good book. Comfortable decor is one thing, but it’s the little details that make Glebe House so special, from homemade cookies in the rooms to a delightful walk book filled with local trails and poems.

EAT

At Glebe House, food is a top priority. While the hotel maintains a relaxed and informal atmosphere, its restaurant and kitchen (featured in the Michelin Guide) are truly exceptional. Led by chef-owner Hugo, the dining experience is nothing short of first-class. 

Homing in on local, seasonal produce – many of which come from the vegetable garden – with a regularly changing menu, farm-to-fork is the restaurant ethos. For a real taste of what’s in store, the Glebe House Dinner is the one to try. A fixed menu of six courses, you’ll indulge in the likes of porridge bread, tomato carpaccio, tender grilled sea bass and some delightfully sweet desserts. 

Breakfast is certainly worth waking up for. Enjoy a coffee in the garden whilst taking in the views, then head inside for homemade oat cookies served with thick yoghurt and fruit compote, plus all the usual delights from crunchy granola to eggs ‘your way’. 

DO

Glebe House’s stunning location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Devonshire countryside. Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just three miles from the Jurassic Coast, there’s no shortage of adventures. The hotel also offers a range of experiences, from bread making with head chef David Knapman to mackerel fishing with a twilight dinner on the beach (subject to availability). 

If you’d rather not venture beyond the hotel grounds (and we wouldn’t blame you), there’s plenty to keep you entertained – from wandering through the gardens to taking a dip in the outdoor pool (open May to September) or enjoying a game of tennis on the outdoor court.

THE FINAL WORD

With its peaceful surroundings and warm hospitality, Glebe House is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of country life. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a serene getaway, this hidden gem provides a truly restorative escape.

BOOK IT

Rooms start at £153 per night, including a farmhouse breakfast. glebehousedevon.co.uk