The Royal at Heysham is a hidden gem on the Lancashire coast

Nestled to the north-west of the country is the quaint village of Heysham – and one of its businesses is a real hidden gem.

The Royal began life in the 16th century as a grain store before being transformed into a pub a century later.

Today, the Daniel Thwaites-owned inn has been lovingly restored and boasts 11 en-suite rooms, many of which have retained unique original features. Part of the pub is the former cottage which was famed for producing nettle beer.

We went to stay for the night to find out what The Royal at Heysham is really like – here’s how our editor got on.

The outside of The Royal at Heysham When I arrived at the hotel I hadn't realised quite how close to the sea I'd be - it really is a stone's throw away.

I entered the bar area on a Thursday afternoon and noticed there were already quite a few punters enjoying a beverage or two.

Check-in was a speedy affair; the member of staff serving me offered to get me a cold flask of milk so I could have hot drinks in my room, offered to carry my bags and showed me up to Room 11, at the top of the building.

Room 11 (Image: Newsquest)The room was warm, light and gorgeously decorated, with a big bed, cosy sitting area and a stunning bathroom area. To make the situation even better, I could see the coast from the biggest window.

As it was a Thursday I had some work to do, so after quickly unpacking I made use of the complimentary hot drinks and biscuits and cracked on.

I had invited a guest to join me for dinner in the restaurant that night at 7.30pm so thought I best make a bit of an effort and spruce myself up.

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The view from Room 11 (Image: Newsquest)The shower, which looked newly decorated, was very powerful with plenty of hot water - the only downside was a little shelf to put your toiletries on. However, there were complimentary goodies from The White Company to use which is always a treat.

I headed on down to the bar to enjoy a drink before my guest arrived - there were plenty of punters in and there was a great atmosphere.

We went through to the restaurant at the allotted time and were greeted by deputy manager Marcus who could not have been more attentive.

A really nice touch on a chilly night was a roaring fire which we very much enjoyed.
My work station for an afternoon (Image: Newsquest)

We opted just to go for two courses, starters and main, and a few bottles of wine to wash them down; my guest went for mushrooms on toast, followed by steak and chips, while I went for tempura prawns followed by fish and chips.

All of the food was served quickly, was piping hot and, most importantly of all, was delicious. A special mention must go to the firecracker sauce we were both convinced to try - it was creamy and dreamy. 

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The mains (Image: Newsquest)

Feeling full on hearty pub grub, we enjoyed the roaring fire and each other's company, along with the delicious New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, until it was time to part ways. I headed upstairs looking forward to a good night's sleep.

I woke up the next day feeling refreshed - I didn't hear a peep from outside the hotel and the bed had been divine to sleep in. I headed down to breakfast looking forward to another delicious meal to get me ready for the day ahead.

I opted for my usual choice when staying at a Daniel Thwaites hotel; eggs Benedict, a glass of orange juice and a pot of English breakfast tea.

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Breakfast is served (Image: Newsquest)

As with dinner, breakfast was served promptly and was very tasty - just what I needed. Sadly, it wasn't long before I had to head back to the room to pack up and head home.

Check-out was a speedy affair and I was able to thank the staff for their attentiveness and settle the bill.

I'd definitely recommend The Royal at Heysham - it's an ideal getaway for a trip away and has so much on its doorstep to explore.