Press Reviews

People always have plenty to say about staying at Fingals…

Our comments and reviews page will give you an idea of the experiences of our guests of staying at Fingals as well as what the media say about us.

The Guardian

The effect is a profound, enveloping sense of calm… I love the place   

Sally Shalam

Alastair Sawday’s Special Places To Stay

Secret place to stay… Richard Johnston combines a rare laissez-faire style with a passionate commitment to doing things well. 

Alastair Sawday 2012

The Good Hotel Guide 2016

There is a ‘most relaxing’ ambience at Richard and Sheila Johnston’s ‘characterful’ B&B in a secluded valley near Dittisham village.

MSN Travel News Website 2016

Listed on the MSN Travel News website as one of the best Devon hotels to visit in September.

Sawdays Top Ten dog-friendly cottages in the UK

This quirky stone cottage for two is located in a hidden valley in the dreamiest part of South Devon. You’re close to the estuary and the coast – Blackpool Sands is just eight miles away, whilst the River Dart is right on your doorstep. Owners Richard and Sheila are dog-lovers themselves, and are happy to recommend you all the best secret spots to visit with your pooch. 

Inside, you’ll find a light and bright beach-house interior and two balconies. Out the front, you get views of the tennis lawn. Whilst on the back deck, you’ll overlook the babbling brook and can bask in the sun or catch flash of a kingfisher. Enjoy a sauna or a swim in the light-flooded pool, set off on long walks, have dinner at a local pub or just settle in for a night by the log-burner. If you’re looking for one of the most unique dog-friendly cottages in Devon, this is it.

March 2021

The Most Romantic Airbnbs in the UK

This New England-style mill house adjoins Fingals Hotel, run by hosts Sheila and Richard, so not only do guests get access to the on-site swimming pool, tennis and croquet courts and games room, but they also have their own clematis-cloaked entrance and completely private quarters, designed by artist-architect Andras Kaldor. There is a piano plus an extensive vinyl collection where you’ll find everything from Harry Belafonte to Pentangle. From the many terraces, spot otters, kingfishers and brown trout in the Barberry Brook, or simply snuggle up in the rowboat loveseat and listen to the sound of the stream.

Conde Nast Traveller, March 2021

Conde Nast Traveller