A very historic hotel full of character. The bar area was beautifully and tastefully decorated for Christmas, the open fire just added to the cosiness. Have stayed at this hotel many times over the years as convenient for family get togethers etc. However, the standard has slipped and I would question it's 4 star status. Upon arrival we ordered a coffee and asked for either a pastry or tea cake - was told not sure if they had any food as they were so busy that day! Room should have been ready by 2pm, at 2.15pm I queried status and was told that I had to wait until they received confirmation on their system that the room was ready! There were various private functions happening, the staff were rushed off their feet but did their utmost to keep everyone happy. Not impressed by the way the hotel packed in private events, including taking over half the bar area, without any consideration on the impact this has on hotel residents - comes across and sheer money grabbing! The Sunday roast was disappointing - roast potatoes not very well done and despite asking for the veg to be well done it still arrived crunchy! The icing on the cake was a rather chilly garden room! I still love this place as the building is so charming and the location very handy. But not a 4 star hotel in my view.