Stoke Place

Service

Booked a luxury night away at £135pp. Arrived at reception and the welcome was pretty bland. We were then informed that the the time I had agreed for dinner through off peak was not available and we would have to move forward to 7pm or wait until 9pm. Not an auspicious start. Arrived in the room and it was lovely with high ceilings a very comfortable bed and a free standing bath and his and hers basin in bathroom area. However the chilled champagne was nowhere to be seen. I waited 30 mins before calling reception. They said did I want it in the bar rather than the room, I replied no and asked if there was a problem having in the room, No problem but we then waited another 30 mins before calling again to be told " Haven't you received it yet? I will chase bar again" Not an auspicious start. Champagne then arrived followed 10 mins later by some chocolates presumably as an apology for delay. Dinner was very enjoyable and very well presented. Only issue was the bill afterwards as we were charged for the coffee even though it was part of package. Resolved quickly but another example of the staff not knowing the package we were on. We went for a pleasant stroll in grounds before going to the bar. The barman was the same as the other staff unable to raise a welcoming smile or pleasant manner when asking us what we wanted. After a good nights sleep we ordered breakfast in the room which was also very nice. It was a nice night away but the Management need to realise that people won't return to those prices unless they are made to feel welcome and special.

Not as good as the first visit...

I returned to Stoke Park for the second time & although I have visited before I found that the staff on arrival just assumed we knew where all the facilities were. The restaurant has now moved to the 2nd floor & although much larger I had to complain about my main course as it was over cooked. They were also unaware of the booking I made for the restaurant made via offpeakluxury (apparently).
We were meant to get a glass of champagne on arrival, but didn't receive this until we sat down for dinner?
The building was very noisy with one of us being by the kitchen & another by the laundry cupboard & the rooms were very stuffy. Putting the air conditioning on just made the room very noisy every 30 mins when it kicked in.
I understand the new owners are looking to refurbish the hotel which I think is needed, with guests being away from staff areas, so they can relax & enjoy their stay. My previous visit I overlooked the grounds & this was far more peaceful. Such a shame as I thoroughly enjoyed my last visit & this was for a birthday.  On departing, the duty manager did listen to my comments. I would be interesting to visit again, once the transformation has taken place.

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