Ashwell

The attention to detail really impressed me. It's a beautiful country hotel overlooking Rutland Waters, with modern amenities for every need. The restaurant and bar are very good, with an excellent menu and attentive service. There's also a nice outdoor terrace with seating for hot summer days. Looking forward to coming back.

The staff gave two elderly people a remarkable amount of care, and we really appreciated it. We enjoyed a very comfortable three-night stay. The shower could be better with walls around it, so the rest of the bathroom wouldn't get soaked.

Breakfast was incredible, and the rooms are cleaned especially well. We first had room 28, which was dog friendly, but also seems to be a disabled-access room. It was much smaller than the spacious 'Culture' room shown on the website. The toilet wasn't working properly, the shower riser wouldn't stay up, and the shower wasn't a power shower as advertised. The staff couldn't have been more apologetic or helpful when we asked to move to a room like the one pictured. We were moved to room 17, which matched the website and was wonderful. A few things to be aware of: there was no decaf coffee in the room, no shaver or toothbrush sockets in the bathroom, and the restaurant adds a 12.5% service charge by default, which you have to ask to have removed if you want. That's quite high. We'll definitely book again if room 17 is available.

Even travelling by myself for the whole week, I felt completely looked after and came away relaxed and refreshed. I'm already planning a return and would highly recommend Barnsdale Hotel for a memorable, well-cared-for stay. The staff's care and attention stood out from the moment I arrived. Breakfast each morning felt welcoming, with a friendly, attentive team making sure everything was right. In the evenings, the dining staff kept up that same warm, professional service, and the meals were delicious. The whole team clearly takes pride in their work, which made the stay feel special.