The White House

We were disappointed with the evening. We arrived dressed up and had hoped to make a night of it, but the whole visit took just 40 minutes. The food was pleasant enough and we ate it all, though nothing stood out. Roast potatoes came with savoy cabbage, carrot, onions and peppers in a jus rather than gravy. Dessert arrived as soon as our plates were cleared, and our drinks only turned up about 30 seconds before the food. We hadn’t been given a menu or told what we’d be eating, then realised it was connected to the “are you lamb” comment from the gentleman pouring wine at an empty table when we arrived. We weren’t sure if he worked there or was a guest. The place itself looked lovely and cosy, and the tables were full. We’d booked online for our first visit, but wouldn’t have chosen it if we’d understood the Sunday to Wednesday format: a set two-course meal with everyone eating at the same time. The website menu doesn’t make those days clear, and finding out how it works takes some digging, which I don’t normally do. We may try Thursday to Saturday instead, when there’s a choice of food and, more importantly, a chance to slow down and enjoy a couple of glasses of wine. It was £30 each before drinks. I’m sure plenty of people rate the place, but staff were hard to identify in clothes you’d lounge around in at home, knowing nobody was going to see you.

We spent part of the evening in the common room, where a bar serves drinks, and enjoyed seeing travellers come together there. The White House is a lovely tucked-away country hotel, and the breakfast was wonderful. I highly recommend it.

We stayed a little longer after celebrating our wedding here, and we’ll definitely be back. The place and staff were faultless, with an amazing team, venue, food and time. The rooms and grounds are lovely, and the food is delicious. If you’re considering a stay, I’d definitely recommend it. Everyone was amazing, and I’m sure you’d love it too. Thanks to all, and see you soon.

The staff made us feel at home with their kind, attentive welcome, which gave the stay a personal feel. Our room was stylish and cosy, with lovely British design furniture and thoughtful details throughout. We also had a fantastic three-course dinner, followed by an equally delightful breakfast. I can’t wait to return to The White House. It’s a lovely escape for relaxing, enjoying good food or feeling at home away from home. I had an incredible stay and can’t recommend it enough.