Rokeby Manor

The room felt dreamy, with a lovely view right outside the window, and the food was a treat. The whole stay had a fairytale feel, tucked away from the crowds. If the property photos have already caught your eye, go ahead without a second thought. You won't be disappointed.

The room at Rokeby Manor was clean and nicely presented, and the staff were courteous. It's a pleasant enough hotel, but the restaurant prices left a bitter taste and soured the stay. We arrived after dark and, like plenty of guests, didn't fancy heading out to find somewhere to eat, so we chose the hotel bar and restaurant. Most of the menu is Indian, which suited us, but £7.50 for an average canned Guinness, £25 for a good but not exceptional curry, and £10.50 for a starter-menu samosa felt excessive. I don't mind paying more when the meal lives up to the price, but this one certainly didn't, and we felt taken for a ride.

The manor looked incredible in the winter snow and fog, and the Indian food was delicious, definitely worth trying. It's a beautiful place for a fairytale Scottish experience, but the reception staff felt cold and unfriendly. Watch the menu prices too: dinner for four cost £130, which limited what we could enjoy. The atmosphere gets 5/5 from me, but value was 3/5. Bring a big budget.

The food was delicious at both breakfast and dinner, and the staff were so welcoming and lovely that we felt at home. It's a beautiful rustic hotel with loads of charm. We'll definitely come back.