Dunadry Hotel and Gardens

I've stayed here overnight with work and also come for dinner, which is mostly what this review is about. The food was just average, nothing that would make me choose it over another restaurant. Service was patchy too. There seemed to be only one server around when we arrived, maybe they were short staffed, and it got easier once more people showed up. Still, the drive isn't worth it for us, so next time we'll try somewhere closer to home.

The sandwiches, soup and scones were fresh and tasty, and our waitress was warm, friendly and attentive once we were seated. The pastries let the afternoon tea down, though, and weren't what I'd expect at a four-star hotel. When we asked to take the leftovers, we were handed a box and left to pack them ourselves. Some parts were enjoyable, but the service issues took away from a birthday treat for my mother. I'd called on Friday evening to book and was told Afternoon Tea ran from 12 to 3. They asked for a time, and I chose 1:00pm. When we arrived, there was confusion even though we had booked. We were asked if we were sure we'd booked Afternoon Tea and whether we'd called or booked online. We were left standing, so we found seats ourselves. A waitress came back with a manager, who said they didn't have our booking but could arrange tea if we waited. They also said it needed 48 hours' notice, which isn't what the website says. We agreed, but the exchange left me feeling doubted, which wasn't a nice start to the occasion.

The weather was awful, but inside the hotel felt warm, peaceful and welcoming, even though it was busy. The staff were wonderful and the meals were lovely. I liked being able to order a smaller portion too. We even got to see the pretty peacocks before leaving, such majestic birds.

The spa garden was lovely, open from 9am to 9pm, and felt private since not every hotel guest can use it. You can step right into that area from your room without walking through the hotel. It's a beautiful hotel with lovely staff, and I'd definitely return.