The ancient market town of Tavistock is idyllically positioned, on the edge the Tamar Valley, which is, in turn, on the edge of Dartmoor. Many of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Tavistock are well positioned to take advantage of the magical Tamar Valley views. Our pick of the properties includes one of our very favourite country house hotels in the South West, a clutch of bijou B&Bs, and converted country manors in pretty rural settings.

Many visitors choose Tavistock because of its proximity to the Dartmoor National Park, and plan to do plenty of exploring on foot, but some people opt for Tavistock because it’s Sir Francis Drake’s home town, known for its beautiful abbey and Parish church that’s almost as grand. Sir Francis Drake retired to Buckland Abbey, which is now owned by the National Trust, and run as a museum to Drake.

As well as historic properties to be discovered, another attraction is its regular markets, which are held in one form or another several times a week. Tavistock has also got a reputation for being quite ‘foodie’ — it has an excellent collection of independent food shops, many supplied by local farmers. Last but not least, the town claims to be the ‘home of the cream tea’, something that every visitor here should sample! Just don't forget that the best places to stay in Tavistock will be very busy during the peak summer months. Book well ahead to avoid disappointment!

The Best Places to Stay in Tavistock

For a Country House Escape

• The Hotel Endsleigh is a beautifully converted shooting lodge, all old Georgian glamour on the outside, and Olga Polizzi design on the inside. The Tamar Valley spot is fabulously peaceful, with beautiful views of the expansive landscaped grounds and beyond. There are 19 guest rooms decorated with just the right number of antiques, complemented by up-to-date fabrics and soft furnishings. Expect roll-top baths and rain showers in the bathrooms. In proper country house hotel style, guests can expect plenty of meal opportunities here, from fresh scones in the library or sitting room, lemonade on the lawns, and season-following dinners in the wood-panelled dining room. Luxurious, but warm and inviting too. Great for families (or, indeed anyone) who want to treat themselves.

For Couples

• The Horn of Plenty Hotel is a converted manor house picturesquely positioned on the edge of the Tamar Valley. Each of the 16 guest rooms have been individually decorated, and the feeling is very much of being the guests of fortunate friends. But with a 2 AA Rosette awarded restaurant. Rooms in the Main House are traditional, whilst those in the Garden House are more contemporary. Our favourites have private balconies with incredible valley views.
• The Cider House is a four room B&B converted from the cider house of the monastery of Buckland Abbey. The beautiful grounds surrounding the property are looked after by the National Trust, and the views are fragrant and serene. Stay in the elegantly decorated and historic main house, or, for more privacy, in one of the new Shepherd’s Huts in the garden. Romantic and rejuvenating.

For Great Value

• Tavistock House Hotel is a small and smart, boutique-style hotel in central Tavistock. This is the ideal base for exploring Tavistock on foot, and venturing out of town with your car. The five rooms are simply, and stylishly decorated in monochrome colours. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer breakfast.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Exeter International Airport is Tavistock’s closest airport, about 50 minutes away by car, or about four hours by train. Newquay Airport is probably next closest, around an hour away by car or taxi, or five hours by public transport, and Bristol Airport is quite close too, about two hours drive, or six hours by train. If you’re travelling from London, or via London, it’s about six hours away by train from Paddington.
• If you would like the freedom of your own car we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Tavistock’s climate is fairly temperate; it’s just back far enough from the coast to miss some of Plymouth’s rain, so it’s drier, and also slightly cooler. Tavistock has four distinct seasons, with the chance of rain throughout the year, but more likely in autumn and winter. Expect temperatures into the 20°Cs during the summer, and around 10°C during winter. Tavistock hosts a regular farmers' market, and an arts market, there’s also a Steam Fair, a Country Garden Show, and the Goosey Fair every October, so check the local calendar for bonus events around your travel dates.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Devon
• Focus your search around the Tamar Valley and Dartmoor National Park
• You could also consider Tavistock’s neighbours and check out the best places to stay in Plymouth, the best places to stay in Buckfastleigh or Chagford
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.