A beachy break with dinner at Mercure Paignton

Paignton is a vibrant British seaside town on the English Rivera hosting a pier, a fairground and plenty of places to eat and drink. It is a quintessential getaway for Brits visiting from other parts of the country to Devon in search of sea and family fun. The Mercure Paignton is in a great location, just a ten-minute walk from the train station, with expansive views of the golden sandy beach; it is well-positioned for family holidays and mini breaks.

On visiting a few weeks ago, the Mercure Paignton was a mere five weeks old, and its fresh appeal is evident in every aspect of its design. We were greeted by an ambience of modern elegance when we stepped into the lobby. The decor is lush in gold, pinks and blues. The tasteful blend of contemporary elements and subtle coastal touches creates an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere.

Upon arrival, we had some snacks in the bar followed by cocktails in the sun on the decking. The team are building a bigger outdoor space at the front overlooking the beach, perfect for sun-worshipping.

The rooms at the Mercure Paington were lovely, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to the seafront. Spacious, well-appointed, and immaculately clean, they provided a comfortable haven for relaxation. The comfy bed ensured a restful night’s sleep, and the amenities were top-notch.

One aspect that truly stood out during my stay was the exceptional service provided by the hotel staff. From the warm welcome at check-in to the attentive assistance throughout my visit, the team at Mercure Paignton went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and satisfaction. They were always friendly, accommodating, and ready to assist with any inquiries or requests, making me feel genuinely valued as a guest.

The on-site restaurant boasts a diverse menu focusing on using locally sourced produce. The restaurant’s stylish ambience and panoramic beach views added to the overall dining experience.

For our dinner, we embarked on a culinary journey that began with tantalising starters. My husband opted for the Lamb shoulder and olive croquette while I indulged in the delightful combination of scallops and Granny Smith apple.

Moving on to the main course, I selected the braised feather blade of beef accompanied by shallot puree, thyme, and Parmesan triple-cooked chips. The meat was flawlessly tender, melting in my mouth with each savoury bite. However, the dish felt a bit heavy on the stomach, leaving me wishing I’d ordered something lighter. My husband’s beef ribeye, served with short rib tomato fondue, crispy shallots, and a delectable bearnaise sauce, was perfectly cooked. It was a dish that could easily rival those found in esteemed gastropubs.

Mercure Paington’s location is great. Being close to a big sandy beach meant I could jump out of bed for a swim super early and watch the sunrise over the sea. The convenience of nearby attractions and amenities make the hotel an excellent location for a beachy break.

Our experience at Mercure Paington was very good. Its location near the sandy beach, beautifully decorated interiors, and impeccable service made it a lovely break away. I recommend this hotel to families who want a holiday by the sea and couples who want a weekend away.

I also recommend a visit for cocktails on the deck!

Just so you know… This experience was gifted – but, as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

Tags: Devon, Eating out, getaway, minibreak, restaurant, seaside