Hotel Cessnock

We went for dinner as a big group, and everyone enjoyed their food. We had schnitzels, wraps, burgers, sweet potato fries and pork bites, and it was all delicious. The staff were really friendly. Highly recommend.

I was extremely disappointed by how Hotel Cessnock handled my confirmed Booking.com reservation, made at 4:39 pm on 27 December 2025. After check-in, I was taken to my allocated room and found a used vanity kit on the bed. I told the gentleman who had helped me. He was polite and apologetic, tried to investigate, and even offered me a beer. He later came back to say my room had been given to another guest despite the confirmed booking. He acknowledged the mistake and offered a full refund plus a meal or drink. After that, another staff member took over. There was no apology, urgency or understanding as my frustration grew, especially since nearby alternatives were scarce at that time. I was told bluntly to contact the vendor, and that little could be done. No manager was available, and I got no further help or accountability. The first staff member’s sympathy was where the professionalism ended. I don’t understand how a confirmed booking through a partner platform could be mishandled so badly, leaving someone without accommodation or meaningful support. Mistakes happen, but the response here felt insincere and inadequate. I won’t speculate about why it happened, but the whole episode was deeply frustrating and poorly handled. I’d caution others about relying on a confirmed reservation here unless they’re prepared for it not to be honoured.

We go there on Sundays for a baked dinner, which is a very friendly hotel. The price is realistic at $12-50, and they have a good menu.

The old school pub dining atmosphere was charming, and my meal was delicious and excellent value. But what impressed me most was how staff dealt with a problem. Anyone can provide decent food and service when things go smoothly. Here, they came and found me, explained what was going on, apologised and made it right instead of hiding or pretending. That’s customer service!