The French Partridge

The food is good, and the restaurant has a nice atmosphere. But when it’s busy, service has been painfully slow on two of the three times we’ve eaten there. The quiet midweek visit was fine, with no more than 20% of the tables occupied. On busy nights, it seems they can’t manage with only 2 servers, one of them the manager, covering 2 dozen tables or more. Last night, on Valentines day, my wife and I were staying at the hotel and booked a 7pm table. After 2 hours 35 minutes, we’d had only our starter and main. I chased the dessert for the third time, then we decided to leave without it. The manager said it was “on its way,” as we’d already been told half hour earlier. We explained that at 9:35pm it was too late for sweet desserts, and that we’d booked for 7pm rather than 8pm. We made clear to the manager when leaving that this wasn’t acceptable. The other busy evening, we had to chase our order twice, and heard several other tables complaining too. The restaurant is so understaffed that it takes the shine off what could be a great night out. We won’t eat there again, which is a shame because the food itself is pretty good. The hotel is nice enough, but the rooms are very basic. We stayed in the “best room in the hotel,” yet there was no fridge to chill drinks, no table for reading or playing cards, and not even a coat hook on the bedroom door or a coat stand. At £180 per night, I think those basics should be included.

The massage was incredible and exactly what I needed. It didn’t feel rushed at all, though I wished I could have stayed a few more hours. The spa area was clean and calming. It’s a beautiful building with lots of character, and the staff were extremely friendly and attentive. I haven’t stayed overnight or eaten here, but I’ll definitely be back to try those too. Can’t wait to return!

Dinner in the bar was relaxed, and there was a good choice on the menu. The staff were so amenable, and the lounge looked inviting, with period decor that suited this charming boutique hotel. We didn’t get to use it, though. We really enjoyed our stay at The French Partridge. Our deluxe junior suite was beautiful and well appointed, especially the freestanding roll top bath. The spacious, well kept gravel car park also made arriving and leaving seamless.

We only arrived last night and are halfway through our stay, but the service and value have already blown us away. A really special hotel, full of character, with lovely staff. The beds are super comfy and the rooms are silent. Couldn’t recommend it highly enough!