I am aware that an hotel experience is very subjective and I offer the following comments with that in mind. It may help others.
We recently had occasion to stay at the Cricklade House Hotel for a family wedding. They were some good points, but overall the downside outweighed the plus.
On arrival first impression were very good, a bright reception area, lovely conservatory and wonderful views over the countryside.
However things almost immediately things started to go wrong. When we tried to book in (for two rooms) the receptionist was quite slow and was unsure how to direct us to our rooms. Quite odd really you would expect the receptionist to know where the rooms are!
The rooms we were allocated turned out to be in the annex. With young grandchildren children in our party this was most unsuitable but we were told that no other rooms were available. When I asked for a babysitting service I was told that this wasn’t offered. If we had been told we would be in an annex room when booking (November 2010) we could have made alternative arrangements. Apparently this is a new policy – children in the annex. Also note, although we didn’t need it – children are only allowed in the swimming pool between 4pm – 7pm. (The Manager has since told me that the children would have been allowed to use the pool at any time - but our confirmation email told us otherwise)
One room was good – large with plenty of space. The other one was stuffy and smelt of stale stagnant water. Again, when I reported this – no other rooms available. Both had good bathrooms and plenty of fluffy white towels. Both rooms were clean.
Unfortunately, the upside of the rooms was totally overturned by the sight of at least 60/70 dead flies on a windowsill. (Photo available) Very very off-putting. These were removed after my complaint.
Breakfast next day was another mixed bag. Served buffet style it was an ok mix of fruit, cereal, cold meats and yogurt. When I saw flies on the croissants I decided not to have one! The hot breakfast was usual bacon, sausage etc. but no eggs! Despite being told they would be available ‘in a couple of minutes’ I finally gave up the wait. The final straw at breakfast – tomato ketchup not available, the hotel had run out. Children like ketchup!
I can’t comment on food otherwise, we only had the wedding meal there and that was just ok.
The waiting staff were friendly but very amateurish and service was tentative. I don’t blame them but their lack of training. This is definitely a management problem.
Would I stay at this hotel again – I am afraid not, which is a pity. On the surface it seems to have a lot to offer but once through the doors it was a disappointment
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC