Burley Manor

The manor looked lovely dressed for Christmas, festive without going overboard. We arrived on Christmas Eve to a warm welcome and an open fire, and our spacious, clean manor room had lovely views across the deer park. Christmas Day was great too, with treats in the room and even a visit from Santa. There was plenty of choice for food and drink, and the staff were really friendly. A perfect getaway in a lovely spot.

It’s a lovely spot in beautiful grounds, and the hotel staff were great. The restaurant team weren’t quite as good, and the menu was limited and overpriced for what it was. The place needs a lot of attention. Our room and the hotel generally felt neglected: the bedroom furniture was worn, and the bathroom shower was much too big for the small space. Damp had left fur growing between the shower screen and MDF panelling, and the MDF was coming apart. It all looked tired and shabby for the price, though the room was clean.

We’re so glad we chose Burley Manor for our wedding on 10th December. The team made us feel like the most important people all day, and we can’t wait to come back and remember it. Kim was our coordinator and was down to earth, knowledgeable and happy to handle every request. She arranged several meetings beforehand, checked all the details and even fluffed my dress. The new management had taken over, and although we’d read some worrying reviews, I’d felt this venue was right for us. The connected rustic barns and flat layout worked well, with only a couple of steps, and the Christmas decorations helped bring our plans to life. Our spacious, comfortable bridal suite had room for us to get ready along with our suppliers. We could see deer, Guinea fowl and other animals outside. The waiters and bar staff worked hard, stayed cheerful and were helpful throughout. I caught the names Charlie, Jess and Sam, and Alex coordinated in the evening. Guests said the food was some of the best wedding food they’d tasted. Dietary needs were catered for, and the dishes were cooked well. The pork belly starter could have been a little crispier, if I’m being picky. The short rib was tender and full of flavour, and the sticky toffee pudding was so good. Canapés and evening food were great too, though the pulled pork rolls were a bit underfilled for our liking. Drinks were at standard wedding venue prices, and nobody waited long at the bar. We made it a three night stay to stretch out the wedding bliss, sleeping in a cosy Deer Hut with a comfortable bed and lovely decor. We’d definitely stay there again. Breakfast was fresh, tasty and good quality each morning. Ellie and the other restaurant staff were friendly and helpful.

The special deal we booked made the stay much better value. The team were kind and efficient when my husband left a couple of clothing items in the room. They arranged to post them back very quickly, which we appreciated. We loved the manor and its grounds, especially the setting beside the deer park. Spotting deer from our bedroom just before Christmas felt special. Our room was big, quiet and comfortable, and we slept well, though it could use some care and didn’t look quite as polished as the website photos. Breakfast was enjoyable, although a few cooked dishes seemed a little rushed.