The Blazing Donkey

The basic room standards weren't up to scratch, even if you like a rustic look. If there's a wedding on and you're staying as a guest, you can't get anything to eat or drink from the hotel apart from breakfast. The venue let down the bridal party and their guests. Staff seemed young and inexperienced with everything from clearing tables and pouring drinks to serving meals. Such a shame. If you're thinking about having your wedding here, I'd reconsider. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone, let alone for a wedding. It could very likely ruin your big day.

The couple are still trying to get their deposit and bar tab refunded weeks later. During the wedding, wine they'd paid for in advance never reached the tables, guests were turned away from tap water and asked to pay £5 for bottled water, and one person was given alcohol after asking for a non-alcoholic drink. There were interruptions from music in the middle of the ceremony, the DJ was aggressive, and the staff were disorganised, rude, and unhelpful throughout. I was genuinely shocked by how badly the day was handled. It completely spoiled what should have been a joyful occasion. Avoid this venue at all costs. It's a total shambles.

We got married there in June, and still haven't had our deposit back despite calling, emailing, and going to the venue in person many times. All we've received are false promises. I spoke to a family member who's a police officer, and they said to file a fraud report against Richard. My partner and I are going to do that. They told us that if more people report him, the police will look into it and may be able to get him done. The only way for us to get our money back from this scam artist is for all of us to do it together. Let me know here if you want to get in touch.

The DJ was told by the venue to stop 40 minutes early and not to play songs the couple had sent weeks beforehand. The venue also changed the food menu, even though the bride and groom had chosen it carefully. Guests were charged despite a bar tab, and people got the wrong orders. The disorganisation was unbelievable. This place was lucky to be chosen for my good friend's wedding, but they made a mess of it. I could go on about how rude the staff were and how badly they let the couple down, but I'd be writing a book. Steer clear.