The Special Charm of Regency Sidmouth – Staying At The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel

Since the time of the Prince Regent, who later became George IV, Sidmouth has exuded a special charm that captivates visitors from far and wide. Nestled between two huge red sandstone cliffs, the town looks out over its pebble beaches and beyond to stunning Lyme Bay. Protected like a precious jewel in the Jurassic coastline. In those early days of the nineteenth century, visitors came to Sidmouth to take in the clean sea air and relax away from the streets of the city. Watercolour painting helped to promote the beautiful views of Sidmouth’s coast, which resembled those in Europe and was popular with the holidaying gentry.

Fast forward to the twenty-first century and Sidmouth has lost none of that charm for which it is so famous. A stroll along the Esplanade and further into town shows an abundance of glorious gothic-style Georgian architecture: The Royal York & Faulkner with its Regency verandas, balconies and canopies, stands proudly on the Esplanade as it has done for over two hundred years. Originally the York and Faulkner were two separate hotels, the York having been built in 1807 as Sidmouth’s first purpose-built hotel.

Further back from the sea, overlooking the croquet lawn, and close to the cricket field, is Fortfield Terrace with its imposing double headed eagle on the central impediment – a symbol of Imperial Russia -commemorating the stay of the Grand Duchess Helena of Russia in 1831. Built in 1790, number 8 has a blue plaque, one of many around the town. Not far away, Kennaway House, another Regency mansion, is now a community property and a much-loved resource used by the town for events and activities.

This is the splendour that is Sidmouth; change has happened over the decades but always with a careful eye on protecting its wonderful heritage. There is a gentleness to the town that is not old-fashioned but keeps its connection to the past alive. Young and old visit Sidmouth to enjoy the scenery, events, festivals, the beaches, the gardens, the history and the unique shops. There really is something for everyone.

At the Royal York & Faulkner Hotel, not only do we offer our guests a magnificent Regency building in which to relax and unwind, we are renowned for our friendly and traditional service. Silver service dining in our oak panelled restaurant; afternoon tea in one of four large comfortable lounges on the ground floor; tastefully decorated bedrooms, many leading to Georgian balconies and panoramic sea views.

To enjoy the splendours of Sidmouth and the traditional friendly service at the hotel – call us on Freephone 08800 220714 on book on-line at www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk