Munstone House

The few staff are friendly and helpful, but the reception desk is not used - pressing the bell results in somebody emerging after a minute or so. The room we had was perfectly fine, if a little dated and showing its age, and very spacious, in the wing with the large pergola in front to the left of the main building. There was no room wifi in the wing, it being available only in main reception. The grounds have not been maintained for a long while and are becoming overgrown. The 'beautiful fountain' and the ponds are dry, there are last season's leaves lying around and overgrown paths, bushes and steps. The bar is not used, being closed shut with cable ties and looking forlorn. The lounge is comfortable with fresh flowers on display filling the air with their scent. Breakfast is buffet-style continental and English. Toast has to be ordered by ringing the bell. It's reasonable value for what it is but don't take too much notice of the hotel website. The best word to describe the establishment is 'weird'. It was an amusing and comfortable stay for unexpected reasons! Expect to be able to dine out afterwards on tales of your experience ;-). A short walk of less than ten minutes takes you to a nearby pub, the Secret Garden. Food is OK, people are chatty and there is an extensive and well maintained outside area. The ales on hand pump are from the local Wobbly Brewery which would be fine except that they were all served in very poor condition.

This hotel was lovely overall. Clean, warm and comfy with some classic touches. We were in the orchid suite with a four poster bed and Jacuzzi bath which was great. There were a few small repairs needed but its a huge property and not a chain hotel so to be expected. Only complaint that the bar closes early and hall was a little dusty on the stairs but our room was lovely and clean with everything needed. Breakfast was amazing with perfect fresh eggs and toast made to order, mushrooms and all the bits for a full English as well as continental. Grounds were very pretty for a wander too.

The whole hotel and grounds looked very neglected. Our room was average, but only had one lamp working instead of three. The duvet was a 10.5 tog which was much too hot in August,so pulled it off and slept just with the duvet cover. We did have a fan in the room, a positive! The toilet rolls were just on the floor and had to be picked up by hand, kept thinking who else was having to put their hands on them. My husband has an immune illness and cleanliness is really important. No bar open! Breakfast fine. A hotel past its best days.