I wish I could say it lived up to the price-tag of the room... but from my experience, my stay did NOT fully live up to a five-star night away. The grounds are STUNNING. I have to point that out first and foremost. The breakfast room, bar, reception and the lounge are immaculate. The lounge bearing the fireplace and stone walls feel like an untouched visit back to the 1850's, and you honestly feel like you've stepped into a time machine. I was actually anxious about the visit, as I'd had a couple of issues with misunderstandings with the website as I felt that the offers combined with the layout and navigation of the site had been unintentionally misleading. (I thought I'd stepped onto an incredible bargain with the couple's retreat offer, but I was misguided. This isn't necessarily any one individual's fault as tech often has teething issues and I understand this is being resolved). I had also been regularly checking the site and noticed continual drops in the room prices, but the staff would amend this when I would advise them. I was actually originally due to pay £369 for the comfortable double, which is the lowest grade room, but my own research and common sense allowed me to amend this as I later found the same date, and a better room for a cheaper price. It was fortunate I checked the site frequently. I had purposefully booked directly with the hotel as one of the benefits had been noted as room upgrades. Upon arrival, I requested such, but when I advised I was just staying the one night, I was told it would be a £30 charge to upgrade (it may have been pp, but I forget). Had I been aware of this, I would've accepted a better rate on booking.com or such. I was very disappointed to hear this and felt a little mislead. We opted out, noting that I was already spending a lot of money during a financially difficult time. The room was underwhelming, with the electronic access fob being cracked covered in flicks of paint, a very small television for the cost of the room, and an aged writing desk. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom was lovely, even though part of the handheld shower head was missing a piece of white ceramic/plastic from the handle. I also noted that one of the main light switches on the dual setting didn't work and the knob actually came off in my hand. Positively, my boyfriend was left a lovely selection of handmade chocolates and a card for his birthday, which was a kind gesture. We also had a pleasant view of our little complex of rooms, and the room was flawlessly cleaned and recently re decorated (except the desk). The spa facilities were lovely, and I really appreciated the outdoor pool drinks service! Incredibly relaxing. Intimate, but peaceful. We did, however, find that our eyes were burning after 5 minutes in the jacuzzi. We understand that due to the heat of the jacuzzi combined with bacteria, a higher dose of chlorine is required than in a typical swimming pool, but this was uncomfortable and the
74 Reviews