05/06/2026
Lock, Stock and Barrel
Eighteen months ago, we arrived at the hotel with a vision, plenty of enthusiasm, and a determination to do things a little differently. What we quickly discovered was that change is a bit like Marmite—not everyone's favourite. Since then, the journey has been hectic, challenging, rewarding, and occasionally downright bizarre.
There have been plenty of memorable moments along the way. From the little lady dragging her stick past the hotel, to the occasional wheelbarrow making an unexpected appearance in the bar. There have been conversations, concerns, differing opinions, and all the usual fun that comes with trying something new. Yet through it all, we have remained.
There was Henry, helping to keep disturbances at bay. There were the tunnels, full of strange noises and enough history to keep imaginations busy. There were storms that rattled windows and nerves, gates that suddenly decided they preferred freedom, and development work that seemed to have no finish line. Every time one challenge disappeared, another politely introduced itself.
Then there were the winters. Bitter coastal winds that laughed in the face of thick jackets. Slates taking flying lessons from rooftops. Nervous glances at weather forecasts while wondering what Mother Nature had planned next. Running a hotel in a coastal town is never boring, and Watchet made sure we learned that early on.
But amongst the challenges, we found something far more important.
We found a community.
Our hope was always that Watchet would embrace the changes we were trying to make. Over time, we discovered the true character of the town: its warmth, loyalty, humour, and the people who make it such a special place. What started as an investment in a hotel became an investment in a community and a way of life.
And now, we are about to throw a little more petrol on the fire.
When we say we are done, it is not the kind of done you may be thinking of. We are not finished. We are not leaving. Quite the opposite.
We have committed even more.
With future developments already planned, including a new Family and Games Room, we are continuing to invest in creating more reasons for people to visit, stay, relax, and enjoy what we are building. From day one, our vision has been simple: comfortable rooms, good food, a welcoming family environment, and a bar where people can feel at home.
We are an inclusive place. We do not judge others. All we ask is that people respect one another, because that respect is the foundation of any strong community.
None of this would be possible without support. A hotel is just a building without the people who walk through its doors. Without our guests, locals, families, tradespeople, and friends, we would simply be talking to ourselves—and even we would get tired of that.
So, to everyone who has supported us over the last eighteen months, thank you.
Thank you for your patience during the disruptions. Thank you for embracing change, even when it was not always easy. Thank you for your custom, kindness, recommendations, encouragement, and belief in what we are trying to create.
What began as a project has become our home.
We are no longer simply running a hotel in Watchet.
We are becoming true residents of Watchet, we are moving here.
Lock, stock and barrel.
And the journey continues.
