Swinton Park Hotel

The staff were attentive and so helpful, and the afternoon tea was a lovely treat. We had homemade sandwiches and pastries in a wonderfully relaxing bow-shaped room. My only small quibble was that I’d have preferred a fruit scone, though the plain one was light and fluffy. I hope to return for a proper stay with the hounds soon. Can highly recommend it as a special treat, and it was well worth the money.

We had afternoon tea for 16 in a private room, then went for a walk through the light show. The whole experience was fantastic, and the staff and service were great. The grounds are stunning, close to Masham, and the tea was just what you’d expect. The light show made for a nice walk, but taking a wheelchair around it was definitely a bad idea. They should have discouraged us from doing that.

The place could be special with proper management and trained, motivated staff. Instead, the running of it was poor. Food was inconsistent and sloppy: there was a human hair at a neighbouring table’s lunch, and the dish billed and described by staff as mainly trout had virtually no trout. Staff were indifferent, got basic orders wrong, and couldn’t open a wine bottle with their new corkscrew. The receptionist didn’t seem to know what month it was. The formal restaurant has been changed from a classic world-class dining room into an indifferent bistro, with cheap tables and chairs crammed in and a hideous plastic-looking partition. Such a pity, because the building and interior are stunning, the grounds unsurpassed, and everything is beautifully preserved in a classic, tasteful style. The modern spa and restaurant development is also well designed and maintained to fit the setting. This is the best of a classic British grand country house hotel, but it doesn’t live up to that potential.

The estate staff were friendly, and we really enjoyed the complimentary activities for guests. They’re well worth doing and a fabulous idea. The accommodation and location were both fabulous. The food options let the place down, especially at the Terrace cafe restaurant. The selection was odd, portions small, and prices high for what you got. It seems geared more toward country club visitors than guests staying at the estate.