The Goodwood

We were lucky enough to get upgraded to an amazing suite for my wife’s birthday stay. The Goodwood estate is a beautiful setting, and walking around it was great despite the weather. Dogs are welcome, with treats available. We also ate at the neighboring restaurant and loved both the food and service; see my separate review. Very highly recommended.

The staff seemed very young, and I think older, more experienced people are needed. We booked this for a romantic spa weekend, but found little flexibility around guest needs. On arrival we were told the spa was busy and advised to try the next day. We did, only to be turned away because it was at capacity. Then the same girl at health club reception let a woman behind us in the queue enter. She said afterward that she shouldn’t have done that. It was bizarre. About an hour later, they let us into the pool area, which was half empty. Women in the changing area were gossiping about hotel guests, and staff joined in. It felt totally unprofessional and soured the weekend. They advertise spa facilities, but we couldn’t get in for much of the time, and it seemed they picked and chose who could enter. I’d spend £250+ a night elsewhere, to be honest.

The cottages are amazing, and we stayed in one of the five for two nights. They’re self-contained, so there’s no room service; you bring your own food or walk five minutes to the hotel to eat. A courtesy car from the hotel to goodwood house is provided. We didn’t use the pool or leisure facilities, perhaps next time. Dogs are allowed in most places, even the restaurant, so bear that in mind at breakfast. Lovely staff, especially Claire and Gareth and reception. The cottages are beautiful, though I can’t comment on the hotel rooms. One suggestion for the people running the hotel: soft music in the evening and at breakfast would add atmosphere, instead of just a radio at the top of the area. Some pleasant scents at reception and a welcome water container with fruit, as some top hotels have, would be nice too. Thank you for such lovely memories.

The little details in our room didn’t go unnoticed, and the team were great with children and accommodating. Standards across the hotel were fantastic, from the staff and cleanliness to the facilities. We felt right at home and would definitely stay again. Well done to the team and management!