My mum stayed there for two nights. The first bad sign was that she was told when she arrived that she was to go round to the conservatory entrance and ring the door bell there as the front door bell didn't work. So she did and there was no response. Luckily I was with my mum, so we went out for the day before coming back and trying again to get in - again going around the side to the conservatory entrance. This time I phoned and a lady said she would be across straight away - so the reception is actually in another building on another road. There was apology for no one answering the door the first time, or indeed for the fact we had to phone to be allowed in.

The check in process was hardly slick, you're left to stand in a dark hall way observing their dated RAC 5 Diamond Awards and everything else . (NOTE: WHILST THE PLACE CLAIMS 5 DIAMONDS - THIS WAS AWARDED IN 2001, GOING BY THE AWARDS IN THE HALL ITS WON NOTHING ELSE SINCE THEN). The receptionist shuttled back and forth from a room with bits of paper to complete the check in process- a process that didn't leave you feeling full of confidence.

Breakfast is 0700 to 0830 - which for the leisure traveller isn't conducive to an easy going day.

The room was okay - keeping in the character of the house - though it could have done with being refreshed. My mum's room was en-suite - though it should be noted that not all rooms are. The TV didn't work. To contact reception during your stay you have to find your way back to the reception hallway and use the phone there as there is none in your room.

In summary - this hotel has had better days, clearly indicated by the fact that the awards seem to arrived up after 2001 - change of ownership or management complacency I don't know.