The Old Custom House

The hotel, a historic pub with rooms, offers a memorable stay right on the harbourside, providing guests with stunning views and immediate access to the vibrant town. Its unique charm and character make it an ideal choice for sightseers eager to explore local attractions, walkers keen to access coastal paths, and dog owners seeking a welcoming environment for their pets. Many guests consistently highlight the exceptional service from the staff and the superb quality of the breakfast as standout features. The comfortable accommodations and central location are also frequently praised, contributing to a highly enjoyable experience. For those planning a visit, it is advisable to request a room with a harbour view to fully appreciate the picturesque setting, and be prepared for navigating stairs as there is no lift, though staff are often available to assist with luggage.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the thoughtful in-room amenities that enhance their stay, including coffee machines, ample tea and coffee supplies, and even complimentary local lager or beer. The bathrooms are generally well-equipped with toiletries, with some rooms featuring luxurious soaking tubs. For those traveling with pets, the hotel provides excellent dog-friendly amenities, such as welcome bags with treats, bowls, and even "puppy beer." While there is no dedicated fitness center or pool, the hotel offers a unique convenience with a hair salon located upstairs, adding to the range of services available on-site. Guests also note the availability of games and books near reception for leisure. Most guests found the free Wi-Fi generally functional, though some experienced occasional connectivity issues.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and tidy, with many praising the comfortable beds and crisp white sheets that ensure a restful night's sleep. Several rooms boast stunning harbour views, adding significantly to the overall experience. While many rooms are described as spacious, some guests noted that certain twin rooms felt a little small. The bathrooms are typically well-appointed, though some reviews mentioned issues with shower pressure and a few instances of a non-functional heated towel rail. Noise levels received mixed feedback; some rooms, particularly those above the bar or facing the street, experienced street noise or bar noise until late evening, while others found their rooms quiet. A few guests mentioned minor issues like creaky floors or a slightly tired decor in some areas, with occasional reports of a musty smell in pet-friendly rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as superb and a highlight of the stay. It is freshly cooked to order with high-quality ingredients, offering a varied menu that includes both a full English option and continental choices like fresh fruit. Many guests found the breakfast substantial enough to last them through most of the day. The restaurant and bar areas are also highly regarded for their food quality and atmosphere. Guests frequently commend the evening meals, with specific mentions of excellent steak, mussels, and fish and chips. The Sunday roast is particularly popular, noted for its generous portions and delicious taste. The pub also offers a good selection of well-kept beer and often features live music, creating a lively and enjoyable dining experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests directly on the harbourside and within easy walking distance of all of Padstow's main attractions, shops, and restaurants. It is particularly convenient for walkers looking to explore the South West Coast Path. While the location is ideal for exploring on foot, guests should be aware of the parking situation; public car parks are available directly opposite the hotel, though they are paid and can be expensive, especially during peak season. Some guests found parking easy, while others noted it could be limited. A key aspect of accessibility is the building's historic nature, which means navigating numerous stairs and corridors to reach rooms, as there is no lift. This can be challenging for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, frequently described as friendly, helpful, and attentive. Guests highlight their excellent service from arrival to departure, noting their welcoming demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond. The check-in process is often praised for being quick and efficient, with staff even assisting guests by carrying luggage up the stairs. The hotel's dog-friendly service is a particular standout, with staff making pets feel just as welcome as their owners. Many reviews mention specific instances of staff making stays special, such as accommodating birthday celebrations or providing local recommendations. Overall, the team's dedication to providing a positive and memorable guest experience is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
A notable and highly appreciated feature of the hotel is its comprehensive dog-friendly policy, which extends beyond simply allowing pets to providing specific amenities like welcome bags with treats and bowls, and even offering a sausage for dogs at breakfast. The hotel occupies an old, historic building with a charming, traditional feel, though some guests noted that certain areas could benefit from a refurbishment, which is reportedly planned for the future. Due to its age and structure, the building features a rabbit warren of stairs and corridors, and importantly, no lift, which is a crucial detail for guests to consider. The hotel also offers unique services such as a hair salon on the premises, providing an unexpected convenience for guests.