The Imperial Hotel, Barnstaple ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

Name: The Imperial Hotel
Address: Taw Vale Parade, Barnstaple, Devon
Price range: US$116+
Rating: 8.2

The Imperial Hotel Barnstaple People photo

The Imperial Hotel Barnstaple Exterior photo

Key details

About the Hotel

Taw Vale Parade, Barnstaple

Near Rock Park

Great

8.6

9.3

/10

4.7

4.6

Loved by The Imperial Hotel guests

Excellent staff

Clean rooms

River views

Delicious breakfast

Private parking

Efficient service

"There was a complimentary mini bar with included chocolates, soft and alcoholic drinks and fruit."

Thisiswhatifind from United Kingdom

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"The hotel is of a traditional style which tends to attract older guests, and many return, like us, on a regular basis."

Alan M from United Kingdom

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"Hotel was lovely, old in style by very grand."

Mark from United Kingdom

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4-Star Luxury Hotel in Barnstaple with River Views

Amenities

The Imperial Hotel in Barnstaple offers luxurious rooms with direct river views and individual styles. Guests have complimentary access to leisure facilities at the nearby Barnstaple Hotel, which includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The hotel also provides parking to all guests at no extra charge.

Rooms

The hotel boasts beautifully decorated rooms, each with its own character and ambience. Many accommodations include large picture windows overlooking the River Taw. The State Suite offers upscale amenities such as plush fabrics, a walk-in shower, and a complimentary fresh flower display.

Dining

The Arlington Restaurant serves AAA Rosette award-winning fine dining, focusing on locally sourced produce. The Colours Bar & Bistro offers relaxed dining with a menu featuring light meals and hearty mains. Guests can experience a seasonal lunch that changes daily alongside various themed dining options.

Location

The Imperial Hotel is situated by the River Taw, providing easy access to Barnstaple's historic pannier market and shops. It is conveniently located near North Devon's stunning coastline and the rugged landscapes of Exmoor. Guests can explore the scenic Tarka Trail only minutes from the hotel.

Weddings and Events

As a prominent wedding venue, The Imperial Hotel offers tailored services for ceremonies and receptions. Couples benefit from a dedicated team that handles all details, including table decorations and menu options. Luxury accommodations allow guests to comfortably celebrate special occasions.

Highlights

Location: Near North Devon's stunning coastline

Dining: AAA Rosette-awarded Arlington Restaurant

Rooms: State Suite with plush fabrics

Events: Tailored wedding services

“This grand building offers a charming, old-empire style experience near Barnstaple's town center. The exceptional on-site dining, complete with an AA rosette, makes it a worthwhile destination. I was impressed by the seamless blend of comfort and tradition here, offering a unique perspective for both leisure and event stays.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingParking Peace

There's ample free parking at the front and rear. A disabled parking space was provided, upon request.

Oliver from United Kingdom

Review on

DiningFood Excellence

Dinner offered an excellent choice of four courses, from a daily changing menu. Breakfast had a huge choice.

Isabelle from France

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Room FeaturesSuperior Comfort

The spacious room had a super king-size, very comfortable bed, and a large TV with free WIFI.

Kenji from Japan

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BathroomLush Bathroom

The accessible room included a very well-kitted-out bathroom, with wet room facilities and grab rails.

Mei from China

Review on

Select your room type

The Imperial Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Single Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Deluxe River View Twin or Double Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Small Double Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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October 2026 - October 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Imperial Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Lift
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Heating
Mini-bar
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Experience delightful dining at The Imperial Hotel, with the vibrant Colours Bar Bistro and the award-winning Arlington Restaurant. Each venue offers a unique setting and an enticing menu that highlights the best local produce and diverse culinary influences, perfect for families, couples, and relaxation alike.

The Imperial Hotel Barnstaple Restaurant photo

The Arlington Restaurant

British fine dining with a focus on local produce

Ambiance

Traditional elegance with a modern touch, creating a welcoming atmosphere for family dinners and romantic occasions

Key Offerings

AA rosette-award winning dishes showcasing the freshest ingredients from the South West, prepared by talented chefs

Reservation

recommended

Hours vary

Colours Bar Bistro

Casual British cuisine with military themes

Ambiance

Informal setting with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for light meals or relaxed candlelit dinners

Key Offerings

A menu inspired by great British battles featuring original memorabilia, alongside an inviting bar for pre- or post-dinner cocktails

Reservation

not needed

Hours vary

The Imperial Hotel Location

Taw Vale Parade, Barnstaple

Explore Barnstaple

The Pannier Market

6 minutes' walk

A historic market featuring local goods and artisan crafts, showcasing the best of Barnstaple's vibrant community.

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

6 minutes' walk

Local history and heritage come alive with exhibits on the region's past, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

White Moose Art Gallery

5 minutes' walk

A contemporary art space displaying works from local artists and hosting rotating exhibitions, perfect for art lovers.

Barnstaple Heritage Centre

6 minutes' walk

An informative center showcasing Barnstaple's rich heritage through engaging displays and knowledgeable local guides.

Yeo Valley Community Woodland

20 minutes' walk

A beautiful woodland area with walking trails, a perfect spot for a peaceful nature stroll or a family picnic.

Air Extreme Trampoline Park

7 minutes' drive

A fun and exhilarating indoor trampoline park for thrill-seekers, offering activities suitable for all ages.

Broomhill Sculpture Garden

9 minutes' drive

An outdoor sculpture garden featuring contemporary art installations, ideal for relaxing walks and artistic exploration.

The Terrace Lounge

1 minute' walk

A cozy spot offering classic British cuisines and warm hospitality, perfect for a relaxing meal or afternoon tea.

Scoffs

3 minutes' walk

Popular for its hearty breakfasts and brunches, this casual eatery serves delicious local ingredients in a friendly setting.

Lilico's

3 minutes' walk

An intimate French bistro renowned for its signature dishes and chic atmosphere, making it a perfect date night venue.

St Anne's Arts & Community Centre

6 minutes' walk

A vibrant hub for arts and performances, hosting live music, art events, and community activities for all ages.

62 The Bank & Bar 62

4 minutes' walk

A lively bar known for its cocktails and live music events, providing a fun nightlife experience for young adults.

Getting around

City Centre
Barnstaple 5 min · 1400 ft
Airports
Exeter International (EXT) 126 min · 51.8 mi
Newquay (NQY) 177 min · 73.2 mi
Train
Barnstaple Train Station 8 min · 2000 ft
Bus
Bus stop 4 min · 1000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 07:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 20.0 per person.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Imperial Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests often appreciate the Imperial Hotel's convenient location, with Barnstaple town centre and the railway station within easy reach. The restaurant is frequently described as fantastic, offering a wide selection of dishes and an inviting wine list; many highlight the pre-dinner drinks accompanied by canapés as a nice touch. While some guests have noted that the interior design feels somewhat dated, the rooms are generally spacious and clean, providing a comfortable stay.

Review score

Based on 4 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

100 %

Recommend

Staff

9.3/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.7/10

Value for money

8.3/10

Pros

Full English breakfast

Helpful staff

Spacious room

Fresh fruit

Central location

Cons

Slow service

Unanswered appeals

Misleading information

Jonathan from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe River View Twin or Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 30, 2026

8.8/10

an heart filled home away from home

river view attentive staff

my heart always remembers how special this place feels. the river view from our room was gorgeous, and the staff is always so attentive. every visit feel so tender, like returning to a place where every detail is lovingly cared.

our room was near the service area, and early morning noise was there. i wish for a more peaceful start to our mornings in such a romantic hotel.

Service

9/10

the team always goes beyond to provide special service, addressing every need promptly. assistance with luggage and recommendations were also provided. the staff really made a difference.

Dining

9/10

breakfast included fresh pastries and locally sourced products. dinner in the restaurant offers seasonal menus. the presentation was perfect, and flavors were perfectly matched.

Rooms

9/10

our room featured luxurious bedding and soft lighting. the decor was classic with attention to detail. the bathroom included premium toiletries.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel provides a fitness centre and a spa. there is also free wifi access throughout the premises. these facilities contribute to a complete experience.

0 Helpful

Amelia from United States

Superior Twin or Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 13, 2026

9/10

clean room high standard food private parking

The room was very clean upon arrival. i found the food to be of a high standard! the hotel has its own parking. It is a definite advantage.

The tv was difficult to operate. I did not listen to the radio.

0 Helpful

samantha from united kingdom

Single

standard twin or double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 05, 2026

6/10

adequate stay but room issues persist

car park view missing air conditioning

the staff showed politeness and i found them helpful .

my room faced the car park and it lacked any appealing view. i also noticed the absence of air conditioning making the room stuffy. it was difficult to ignore the noise from outside especially early morning deliveries disturbing my sleep.

0 Helpful

Benjamin from Germany

Superior Twin or Double Room River View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9/10

efficient check-in clean surface

The check-in was quick and efficient. i got a superior twin or double room river view. It had nice views of the river. the room also included coffee and tea making facilities. the bed linens felt freshly laundered, offering a crisp and clean surface.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Imperial Hotel

Is there parking available at the hotel for guests?

10 November 2024

Ample parking is available at both the front and rear of the hotel, providing convenience for guests traveling by car.

Are there facilities for securely storing bikes at the hotel?

15 July 2024

The hotel offers a garage where guests can securely store their bicycles during their stay.

Can guests bring their small dogs to stay at the hotel?

22 August 2024

Rooms in the River Court building are pet-friendly, allowing small dogs for a fee of £10 per night. It's advised to check availability prior to booking.

Is there a lift available for guests with mobility challenges?

5 December 2024

The hotel includes a lift providing access to all floors, ensuring convenience for guests with mobility issues.

Can visitors enjoy leisure facilities such as swimming pools at the hotel?

18 January 2025

Unfortunately, there is no swimming pool on the property. However, guests have complimentary access to the facilities at the Barnstaple Hotel, which includes swimming pools.

What options are available for guests looking for disability-friendly accommodations?

3 February 2025

The hotel provides a fully accessible room along with several others featuring walk-in showers, ensuring comfort for guests with special needs.

Are there electric vehicle charging stations available at the hotel?

27 March 2024

Yes, the hotel has six EV charging stations located in the front car park, which can be accessed via the 'Smappee' app.

Is the hotel location quiet enough for a restful stay?

25 April 2024

The hotel is situated in a relatively quiet area near the town centre, although some ambient noise may be heard from nearby roads.

What dining options are available at the hotel for guests?

12 June 2025

The hotel features the award-winning Arlington Restaurant offering fine dining, alongside the more casual Colours Bar & Bistro, catering to a variety of culinary preferences.

Do you have any special offers for extended stays at the hotel?

29 July 2024

Currently, guests receive a complimentary bottle of Prosecco when they stay for three nights or more, adding a special touch to their visit.