 The hotel derives its name from the enchanting Ansteys Cove, once a smuggler's haven.
Ansteys Lea became a small hotel in 1946, and is today a 24 bedroom hotel of great warmth and character. The hotel is situated between Torquay's town centre and marina on one side, and on the other side Babbacombe Downs with their magnificent sea views. The nearby village of Wellswood has a selection of all kinds of shops, including a bank, retail shops, florists and pub. Within ten minutes stroll from the hotel, you will be in Torquay's centre, enjoying the Edwardian Pavilion, the lights and the harbour. Or a short walk in the other direction takes you to Babbacombe with its famous Model Village - cited as one of the 'twenty places in Britain' you must visit by Woman magazine. Babbacombe also has Bygones, a museum and curiosity shop with a genuine railway engine. The main lawned area sees the sun for the best part of the day, and is so sheltered that almost anything grows. A well laid out rockery meanders round the lawns. A small summerhouse, close to the hotel, is a peaceful spot to survey the world go by. The heated swimming pool is surrounded by a large patio area. The hotel is on the main bus route into the city centre. It takes a matter of minutes. Our Wedgwood Blue Dining Room is both gracious and welcoming. Its main feature being a superb bay window which overlooks our landscaped garden with its famous Torbay Palms. The high traditional Victorian ceiling with cornices and roses are a wonderful architectural feature. The atmosphere in the dining room is enhanced by several original signed pictures, and lighting designed to create the right mood. We have even kept the original brass 'butler's bell' should you need attention. While waiting for dinner, you can relax in the adjoining lounge, where there are games, books, a teletext TV set and lots of information on things to do in the surrounding area. The lounge is comfortably furnished with matching settees and armchairs. On from the main blue dining room is another smaller dining room, with an intimate dance floor. From here glazed double doors lead on to another dining area overlooking the swimming pool and patio area. We have a romantic lighting system. From a dimmer switch, the dining area can be illuminated via ceiling and wall lights.
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