AN Exmoor small business has won a prestigious silver award for ‘best bed and breakfast’ accommodation in the annual South West Tourism awards.

Bossington Hall, on the edge of Porlock, which prides itself on attention to detail, has previously won a gold award for its breakfast from Taste of the West.

It is run by ex-aerospace engineer Guy Dewdney and his wife Annie, who bought the property in 2016 and converted it back from self-contained flats to a single house.

They started the B&B business only in 2021 in response to the Covid pandemic, aiming to create a friendly, homely atmosphere.

Mr Dewdney said: “It is amazing how often people comment on the warmth and cosy feeling they get while staying here.

“All the staff pride themselves on doing everything possible to help guests enjoy their stay and love to share their local knowledge so that visitors can make the most of their time in the area.”

The Grade II listed property also boasts a listed squash court, a hard tennis court, and eight acres of informal gardens surrounding the house, which offers panoramic views from the headlands of Lynmouth to Dunkery Beacon.

The breakfast features a variety of local produce, including Little Oak Farm’s pork, as supplied to celebrity chef James Martin, and menus in many languages from Welsh to Russian.

Judges who visited the business said: “Bossington Hall is a real hidden gem in the west of Somerset.

“Like many businesses they have had to adapt during Covid, but you will not be disappointed with a stay at Bossington Hall, the property is beautifully furnished, spotlessly clean, and run by an owner who does not have a hospitality background but nevertheless provides an outstanding customer experience.

“So, if you are searching for a short break in a period property in a great location with attentive service, look no further than Bossington Hall.”

Nearly 500 entries were submitted for this year’s regional tourism awards from the Isles of Scilly to Gloucestershire.

Dr Natalie Semley, who chaired the award judges, said: “The level of excellence being sustained throughout the South West region was truly inspirational, and represents the extraordinary level of dedication and commitment from each and every business shortlisted.

“It is clear that these finalists have taken responsibility, and have actively embedded resilience and sustainability into their organisations.”