The Westminster Hotel

Breakfast was excellent, with a freshly cooked hot option and a small continental selection. Our room was a reasonable size, with a full-size wardrobe and plenty of drawers. The bathroom had a bath, which is a must for us, and there was plenty of hot water. Good thing we brought our own shampoo, conditioner and bath products, as the bathroom only had one product. The location was excellent for the Frankie's Guys show at the Opera House, just a short walk away. The building has lovely original features and feels spacious, warm and cosy, with welcoming staff. It doesn’t feel like a four-star hotel to me, more like a B & B.

The room was lovely, immaculate and very clean, and breakfast was nicely prepared and served quickly. We planned to stay two nights, but left after the first when the forecast warned of more snow. I sent a courteous message to explain why we were leaving, but got no reply. Despite the beautiful place, I wouldn’t consider staying again. The man struck me as unwelcoming, and the service amounted to being handed a room key and told when breakfast was. For the one star on service, that was all there was. We travel a lot, and I’ve rarely encountered a proprietor so unfriendly.

We slept peacefully in a comfortable bed, looking out over the lake. The building is lovely, with original details, and feels spacious, warm and cosy. Staff were welcoming, breakfast was tasty and set us up well for the day, and the location made it easy to walk to plenty of bars and restaurants. Great value. I’d recommend it and come back for a trek into the Peaks.

The lovely lady who served an excellent breakfast the next morning was such a contrast, smiling warmly and making us feel welcome. Our first impression, though, was very disappointing. We’ve stayed at hotels around the world and seldom come across such an unwelcoming attitude. The gentleman who opened the door for us yawned and behaved without any grace. He seems poorly suited to dealing with guests. Overall, we still enjoyed our stay.