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The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel

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Hay Hill, Ham, Deal CT14 0ED England
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Traveller (233)
Dining (46)
Room & Suite (22)
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
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About

#1 of 1 inn in Ham
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
The Blazing Donkey is a 22 bedroom country hotel located near to Sandwich in Kent. The hotel enjoys a 3 star rating from the AA and 1 AA rosette for culinary excellence. The hotel is perched in beautiful countryside and has its own acclaimed restaurant, and bar with inglenook and stunning garden with terrace for guests to enjoy in the Summer. The hotel is privately owned and managed. The accommodation at the hotel is arranged in a courtyard and each of the well appointed en suite rooms enjoys rural views. The rooms have TVs and baths with showers. Parking for guests is free. The hotel enjoys a very mixed patronage, from leisure break visitors, business travellers, golfers and wedding guests. The hotel is one of Kent's most popular special occasion venues, and with good reason as the facilities are as extensive as the surroundings are beautiful. The hotel's award winning restaurant produces a regularly changing menu inspired mainly from locally sourced produce. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Visitors can also enjoy morning coffees and afternoon cream teas.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Secured parking
Free internet
Bar / lounge
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Banquet room
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Public wifi
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Special diet menus
Picnic area
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
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Room features
Housekeeping
Iron
Flatscreen TV
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
529Reviews1Q+A56Room tips

Reviews
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Marck C wrote a review Yesterday
1 contribution
I treated my partner to a night out and we found this stunning venue. The fires were a lovely welcoming site as it was cold outside, staff were so friendly and the food was amazing. We've booked to come back again and cannot wait, thank you to the staff for an amazing evening.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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laura t wrote a review Nov 2023
1 contribution
Absolutely beautiful venue and lovely place but went to a wedding in the summer and the food was disgusting the starter was stale,main chicken was cold and undercooked the dessert was not what was described and also the venue ran out of drinks ie alcohol and soft drinks and they continued to make up different prices throughout the day and it was a sweltering hot day so how could they have run out of drinks…. My friend rented a love sign and dance floor and it was not lit for the 1st dance and too late for everything and ruined there special day…
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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chrisbrown30 wrote a review Nov 2023
Eastry, United Kingdom22 contributions9 helpful votes
When we arrived, we were a little surprised to see the carpark completely empty which is a real shame as it is a beautiful setting. We entered the pub and it was cosy and really well decorated but empty we waited at the bar after a few moments a very helpful man served us we sat by the lovely wood burner with a glass of wine it would have been nice to have looked through the menu at this point like we have done at other places, however the man then asked if we would like a chef surprise 3 or 5 course meal or standard menu but we still haven’t seen a menu which is a little strange if I am honest so we have no idea of prices or food choices. I asked how much the surprise meal was he said £45.00 for 3 courses or £60.00 for 5 so we said we would go with 5 courses, at this point we then said that one of us was vegetarian and that the other person couldn’t eat Mussels or Pork which he said would be fine, he then went into the kitchen we then thought that we could have fish as the vegetarian did eat this so we informed the gentleman again where he informed us that 5 course vegetarian would be limited but it would be ok we could have 3 fish courses so that would work which was great for us both so we looked forward to getting our food. There was only 1 other table in the restaurant we were quickly served our starters a veggie scotch egg which was lovely and ham hock and black pudding terrine which is strange seeing as we said no pork he placed this on the table and then asked oh you do eat ham don’t you well yes but not great but rather than making a fuss we kept this and ate knowing we would have 4 other courses. At this point we still haven’t even seen a wine list which is strange for a restaurant, so we asked, and the man told us that you didn’t have any wine lists but he would tell us again no prices and seems like a very limited wine list to be honest so we went with the blush Pinot Grigio which was quite nice. 2nd course arrived a vegetarian pasty type of parcel for both of us which I did think were quite big for a 5-course meal broccoli was very hard couldn’t really cut and burnt on the ends parcel was ok quite bland potato nice but loads of pastry which one of us didn’t eat thinking more was to come a little disappointing to be honest. Then very quickly our desserts arrived it was a platter with mini dishes chocolate brownie was ok a little dry a crumble very sharp, lemon tart didn’t taste of lemon, a baked crème Brúlée was more like egg seemed to have been over cooked not tasty at all and a lemon posset which was nice and our favourite. When we were there the other table had vegan items as we heard the server and on Facebook the next morning, we saw a photo showing Vegan Arancini which looked lovely we did not get any of this. We have a feeling that the server wasn’t listened to if I am honest when you are told you will get maybe 3 fish dishes and then get none, and ask for no pork but get ham hock its all a little strange the other table had a mini desserts each on individual plates for some reason ours was on a sharing plate Tiny dishes to share we didn’t like this either we should have a plate each. In hindsight we should have spoke about the issues with the server who was very helpful but we didn’t want to cause a fuss or an issue and at this point we were the only ones there, but we would like you to be aware of what we experienced last night. Why are there no menus to view prior to ordering and no wine list. It’s a shame as we felt as there were only 2 tables that we were rushed through quickly and that the chef didn’t want to cook a 5-course taster menu then we shouldn’t have been offered it and told we would get fish and we didn’t get any. To be honest for a ham terrine/ ½ scotch egg a pasty and mini desserts for £45.00 very disappointed I would have rather chosen my own meal from the menu maybe the surprise was that we didn’t get fish we did get pork and we only got 3 courses instead of 5 SURPRISE!!!
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Leah S wrote a review Nov 2023
1 contribution
Me and my fiancé booked a viewing and we finally got that feeling of ‘wow this is OUR venue’ and we knew within 15 minutes of being there, and only a few hours after leaving we booked and secured our date so we can now officially say WE ARE GETTING MARRIED AT THE BLAZING DONKEY!!!! We were lucky enough to have been shown round by Richard, the owner, who made us feel so welcome and comfortable from the very beginning. We were amazed by the venue itself but what really sold it for us in particular was the beautiful gardens, the option for a bespoke menu design and the beautiful and unique accommodation options! Richard told us the family history of the venue and it’s clear how family centred they are at the blazing donkey, which is so important to us and just another reason we cant wait to share our special day here with all our family and friends.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Curious34928171105 wrote a review Nov 2023
2 contributions
+1
My Fiancee and I were gifted a nights stay and a three course meal by the owner Richard. It was a wet cold November evening and we were the only people in the property. Clint the venue manger was fantastic and so attentive to our needs. Bruce the chef came out and spoke to us for a while and was equally lovely. Our food was lovely as was our evening and whole experience. In the morning we had a wonderful breakfast and Charlotte too was attentive, kind and professional. We are getting married there in June 2026 and based on this small experience, we have made the right choice. Thank you Clint and team.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Emma_Lou_European wrote a review Oct 2023
Delray Beach, Florida19 contributions9 helpful votes
This is the easiest review I’ve ever written! My best friends got married at this incredible, cute, quirky, magical venue in the beautiful Kent countryside and wow, just wow!!! From the second we arrived the team could not do enough for us! With the warmest welcome, they provided much needed tea and toast for 2 very weary travelers after a transatlantic flight (even though the kitchen wasn’t open) and then went on to provide ‘the’ most exceptional service, always with a smile, throughout the entire weekend! Clint and the whole Donkey team (Chloe and Charlotte just to name a few) worked tirelessly. Nothing was too much trouble! The food was show-stopping (especially the desserts) and we were all very sad to leave this wonderful place. If you are searching for a venue for an event or wedding, then look no further! The Blazing Donkey is it! Thank you for looking after us so well guys, we loved every special moment!
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
3 Helpful votes
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clive g wrote a review Oct 2023
2 contributions4 helpful votes
Attended friend’s wedding at the venue. From the minute I arrived I was taken by the warm and friendly welcome, the detail in preparation for the ceremony, and the organisation in place The food was served efficiently and quickly by helpful , friendly waiters and waitresses. The food was pleasing on the eye and delicious on the palette. It was hot, tasty, and plentiful The whole proceedings went off perfectly without a single hitch, (except the one that was supposed to be happening) which as a couple I am sure helped with any wedding day nerves Ian and Dawn had The evening flowed with a equally delicious buffet for the latter part of the day, and with the excellent disco provided it ensured all the guests were treated to a totally amazing venue and lots of fun for the celebrations for Ian and Dawns special day
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Helpful votes
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Jane R wrote a review Oct 2023
Ashford, United Kingdom7 contributions3 helpful votes
Attended a close friends wedding at this venue. What a fabulous setting! And Donkeys in the field opposite! The staff were attentive and helpful from the outset and nothing was too much trouble. They were up late and present again for breakfast the next morning with a warm welcome. The food served for the wedding breakfast was exceptional and the best meal I have had at a wedding reception so huge thanks to the very gifted chef. Accommodation was lovely too very comfortable en-suite room with everything you could need. The Blazing Donkey was an amazing venue and I would highly recommend it.
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Martyn M wrote a review Oct 2023
1 contribution1 helpful vote
They double booked a wedding, then refused to refund hotel room at £320 per night, ignored emails and never return any of my calls. Read the reviews and avoid this scam venue. AVOID THIS PLACE, ABSOLUTE SHOCKER!!!!
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
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Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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ScottLondon wrote a review Sept 2023
London56 contributions71 helpful votes
First time I had stayed here. We visited for a family party that was organised in the marquee. From the moment we got there, the staff were amazing, really friendly. Our room was spotless and they had made up a little bed for my 5 year old son. Met Richard, the owner and he bought us a drink straight away and made us feel welcome. All the family had a great night and a fabulous breakfast in the morning. Lovely evening. Highly recommend this place.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Lots of parking on site.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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PRICE RANGE
US$184 - US$371 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
blazing donkey hotel ham
LOCATION
United KingdomEnglandKentDealHam
NUMBER OF ROOMS
22
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THE BLAZING DONKEY COUNTRY HOTEL - Updated 2023 (Ham)

Frequently Asked Questions about The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Boonies (2.0 miles), Sandwich Guildhall Museum (2.3 miles), and Walmer Castle and Gardens (4.5 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and free parking.
What food & drink options are available at The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Goose On The Green Cafe, The Corner Cafe, and Hay's Shack.
Is The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.4 miles away from the centre of Ham.
Are pets allowed at The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Are there any historical sites close to The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre (3.0 miles), Deal Castle (3.8 miles), and St Peter's Church (2.5 miles).
Is The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.