The Bruce Hotel

I hosted a business meeting at The Bruce Hotel this week, after more than a decade of knowing the place. My wedding was there 11 years ago, too, so I’ve experienced it for very different occasions. The food is always memorable, the staff are attentive and seem to anticipate what’s needed, and the setting feels right for each event. It’s our community’s go-to for celebrations, meetings, and personal getaways, and we keep finding reasons to return.

We were two locals meeting for Brekki and had a lovely breakfast. The service was friendly and really excellent, and I’d absolutely come back and give them another chance. Maybe it was just an off day. The cutlery could be better quality, though, and those weren’t real British breakfast sausages. Our server’s white blouse had old stains that clearly hadn’t come out, so it didn’t look good. Sending the uniforms to a proper laundry might help.

The room was so spacious, and the bathroom was impressive. There was care in all the little details, and I felt thoroughly spoiled. We were visiting for a play at the Stratford festival in April, and the welcome from the staff was warm from the start. They showed us around the amenities, and there were fresh butter tarts, a well-stocked tea and coffee bar, and even a charcuterie board for an afternoon snack. A stay here is a lovely treat if you get the chance.

Dinner was what really won me over. Every course was delicious, beautifully presented, and paired with a wine that suited it. The staff were courteous and happy to help with even small requests. From the warm greeting when I arrived for a private function to getting my coat back at the end of the evening, the whole experience at The Bruce Hotel was second to none.