Retreat East

The spa was brilliant and the food was excellent. We stayed a few weeks ago for my partner's birthday and loved the place. Staff were so welcoming, and they'd put a birthday card and a treat in our cabin, which was lovely. It's a really cosy spot. We'll definitely be back, highly recommended! Thanks again!

The grounds are lovely, with great walks for unwinding, and we really enjoyed the spa and excellent breakfast. Our apartment had plenty of space and was warm, with everything we needed: a comfortable bedroom, large bathroom, living room, and modern kitchen. Having private parking right outside on the forecourt was a bonus. Everyone on staff was friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our visit. We had a fantastic stay at Retreat East and would happily come back.

The staff's attitude was frustrating. Nobody was in the office when ladybirds started coming out of hibernation in the evening, and then, at around 7pm on the way to the restaurant in the winter dark, we saw six or seven large brown rats running around the courtyard. The staff didn't seem very concerned. Checkout was handled by a woman who seemed rushed. It felt as if the venue was focused on making as much revenue as possible. We came in low season, which in my view should give staff a chance to offer good service instead of treating customers like a nuisance. Our cabin at the bottom of the field was quiet but nothing special. There weren't many teabags or similar supplies, though toiletries were well stocked. The wood burner worked, but there was only enough wood for a short evening. Parking seemed to be arranged on a 'that'll do' basis. Max handled check-in fine, but the young man who showed us to the cabin was curt. We knew the included spa slots needed booking and had booked them, but both sessions started late and ended early. The hot tub booking worked out to about 20 minutes, and several sauna floor panels were coming up. The food was nice, but I strongly object to having a service charge added automatically, and I was surprised the venue is cashless. Breakfast the next morning was only okay, not much on offer, with bland coffee.

We spent our wedding night here, and the staff made the day feel as relaxing as possible. They were incredibly flexible, letting us check in late, check out, then return for lunch and our spa treatments. The food was incredible too. I'd recommend the Sunday pork roast. Fantastic stay!