Noel Arms Hotel

My family and I stopped by for a quick drink because we were early for a reservation at another restaurant on the high street. There were 5 of us, my brother, his girlfriend, my sister, my younger brother and me, and it was also my older brother’s birthday. We felt unwelcome from the start. At the bar we were stared at instead of greeted, and each drink order was met with looks that made us feel as if we were doing something wrong, even though we were paying customers. We tried politely to make conversation, but got almost no response. The man behind the bar was blunt and unfriendly, though not outright rude. An older woman folding napkins kept staring at us too. We saw her serve other customers with a friendlier greeting and without the same looks. It was disappointing to have this happen during a birthday outing. We felt so unwelcome that I won’t return or recommend the pub. I hope the feedback is taken on board, because a more welcoming and respectful approach to customers would make a real difference.

The location was ideal for exploring the lovely village of Chipping Campden, and we’d certainly stay at the Noel Arms again. We liked our room and were glad it had a bathtub for a soak after a long day of walking. The old building is a bit like a maze, with squeaky floors, but that adds to its charm. Service was fine, though perhaps not as welcoming as at some other places we stayed, and perfectly adequate. The only real niggle was a cookie from the lobby cafe that seemed quite stale.

I had the fish and chips and was disappointed by the portion for the price. There were 5 chips on my plate. How is that ample? I’ve had much better value elsewhere. The manager was extremely rude and a poor host too. I’d strongly advise people to stay away.

Two words: don't bother. I really wanted to enjoy my 2 night stay. The room was OK, but upstairs looks very tired, and the hotel’s breakfast lets it down. Breakfast had to be pre-ordered the night before. I chose a full English on the first morning and waited 1/2 hour for it. It was quite small, and the sausage was anaemic and only just cooked. The next day I switched to scrambled eggs and smoked salmon. After 35 minutes, that meagre breakfast arrived, with no apology for the wait. The restaurant atmosphere felt like being at church. Sorry, I won’t be back.