Booked using a groupon. Arrived at the house and drove past twice as it looked nothing like the photos .We were greeted with bucks fizz and hot towels. We were a little later than expected but it was still only about 3.30pm.
We didnt feel we needed to specify an exact time as we as we enjoyed the drive as it was beautiful sunny weather. We felt this was possibly a bit of a problem. We were then asked to specify a time for breakfast . This was uncomfortable as we were on a rare break and what time we would be getting up was far from our minds. We asked what time breakfast was served and chose a time. We then spent all evening feeling pressured with breakfast booked like an evening meal! Isnt breakfast generally served with a few hour window? Our room was small but very comfortable and we were well aware we had paid a reduced amount so was very happy with it. Only complaint it was far too hot but better than too cold and to be fair we should have kept the rad off.
Breakfast was fine and well cooked with fresh coffee. The evening before we noticed the extensive breakfast menu which had vanished when we came down, to be told they were updating it and could have a cooked breakfast and or porridge. This was fine with us as we would not have taken advantage as we had got such a good deal. On leaving Orchard House we noticed that the same breakfast menu had appeared back , obviously for full paying guests. Another problem we came across was that we were not offered to have the local Italian Restaurant booked for us or even given the telephone number despite us mentioning that we would be going that evening. We could not get a table and had to eat in the 'overflow' area out the back! When we paid the waitress apologised and was very suprised that the owner at Orchard House had not called on our behalf as he normally does?

Overall it ticked all our boxes as we wanted a cheap break but we feel that guests who had paid the standard rate would get the friendly response and not the rushed one and also the fantastic choices of breakfast . We were embarrassed to be using a Groupon but we have used them many times without feeling awkward as we did on this occasion. It was a lovely break, very peaceful and hopefully after this ALL guests with a coupon or not, recieve the excellent service that this great house provides, as next time they may just come back and pay for the best suite! (which I must say is wonderful).

As a last min treat, I booked a Friday/Sat evening at my favorite - Orchard House. wanted to visit Morpeth and Alnwick for some Christmas shopping previously and couldnt think of anywhere better to stay from my previous experiences.
My previous stay was with a group of ladies celebrating a friends 50th. Graeme gave us free run of the house and kitchen and we used outside caterers for the evening event.
This trip with my daughter was just as I expected...we were welcomed after a hard day shopping, by Graeme and two glasses of buck fizz and warm hand towels..(just really makes a difference) shown to the Lauren room which was just being completed on my last visit. beautiful king size bedroom with its own lounge..nibbles, fresh fruit tea and coffee and huge bathroom. We were even asked if we would prefer breakfast at the table in our lounge but decided we really needed the push to get out of bed at 10am so decided we should eat in the dining room!
After sitting in every seat and inspecting all the facilities my17 year old daughter pronounced it " elegant and cute - feels like a hotel rather than a B&B" We raided the DVDs and were in PJ's by 6pm.... happy days!
Breakfast was the delicious porridge and full English with all organic locally sourced fare.
Cant speak too highly of the ambiance and service Graeme and staff provide...it is a little gem!
PS Opposite the Police Station is the Congregational cafe and gallery.....worth a visit!

My husband and I stayed at the Orchard House for our wedding anniversary. From beginning to end, the experience was wonderful! Graham, the owner, was so hospitable, as well as his staff. The room was very big, with a superking bed and lovely touches; fruit in the room, as well as real ground coffee and fresh biscuits. The bed was so comfortable and you were provided with complimentary bathrobes. The little touches I thought were so nice. The breakfast was superb, my husband had a full english and I had porridge and soft boiled eggs with soldiers, delicious! I would definately stay again, and as the TV Series "Three in a Bed" would say, we would for certain overpay!! Total value for money.

This is our third stay at the property over the last few years and we were once again totally thrilled with our choice. As we now have a child, this time we opted for the Lauren suite, which is quite simply beautiful and has the most comfortable bed we have ever slept in. The bathroom is enormous and super-luxurious and to start the day wrapped in a soft and fluffy robe with a quality breakfast delivered to your room is fabulously relaxing.

Everything is quality here - and precisely to our taste. We have had the privilege of staying in some first-rate accommodation around the world and, although only a B&B, this rates as one of our favourite places to spend time away from home.