8/10 Very Good
December 22, 2024
Poor management marred an otherwise pleasant stay
Overall, a most enjoyable stay, the only let down being the management, who seemed disinterested, and lacked basic understanding of courtesy. I wondered at times, had they received any training in hospitality?
As a contrast, the Housekeeper, Fiona, is delightful and a gem - very friendly, extremely helpful.
I'll explain my gripe about the management! On the first evening of my stay, I chose to eat in the restaurant. Not having had dinner in the Kingslodge previously, I had expected to be briefed on the protocol for ordering food - but that didn't happen, and I sat at my table being ignored for at least 20 mins before I went to the bar to ask if someone could take my order. The manager then told me bluntly, without apology, that "It's order at the bar - it's printed on the menu." And so it was - but I had just seen a couple having a food order taken at the table, and I certainly didn't appreciate being talked to in that way.
The following morning, I arrived at breakfast to find the water heater for tea was empty, and the coffee jugs down to the dregs. Pointing this out to the chap behind the bar (another manager, it transpired), he disappeared for a minute and returned - with a teapot full of hot water! There was no "sorry sir, let me top it up", or "what would you like to drink, sir".
These may seem minor points, but it is reasonable to expect attentive management in any hotel or inn, and to be treated politely and with some effort at customer service.
Roger
Roger, 1-night family trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
