2 /5 Kate Turner: Could not fault the hotel, with glorious food expertly prepared, spacious bedrooms, handsome decor (if a little tired and weathered in books and corners) and utterly charming staff - consummate professionals. Would return without hesitation and intend to do so. 4 stars.
in comparison, spa day a deflated disappointment. Sauna not operational - had we known we would have booked for a time when it was working. Consequently steam room packed cheek-by-jowl with the overflow. Lockers in the ladies changing room requiring complete overhaul as most lock mechanisms broken, and doors are a head injury hazard. Heavy limescale deposits coating metal features, befitting a veneer of dingy sport locker room, not luxury spa. Toilets and other facilities festooned with "out of order" signs. Gowns and robes thin, drab and tired. Tepid watered-down coffee served in budget self-serve flasks, not a cappuccino to be seen. Disinterested staff lacking engagement, though waitress Megan was an exception. One redeeming event was an exceptional massage by masseuse, David.
Tips: lighting above the pool loungers should be dimmed/recessed, the glare is not conducive to relaxation. An option of slippers as opposed to gaudy plastic flip flops would be welcomed. Water to drink sorely needed in aqua area, water everywhere yet not a drop to drink.
Not a feather of luxury to be seen in the spa, everything tired, worn and dilapidated, which is exactly how I felt on departure. 1 star.
