Saltmarshe Hall

We had a lovely, relaxed afternoon tea, and I’ll definitely come back. I’d recommend it for a laid-back lunch with your mum or a bestie. I told the hotel about my food allergies in advance, and they adjusted the choices on my plate to suit. Everything was beautifully presented, well made, and really tasty. It was worth every mouthful.

We fell for Saltmarshe Hall because there were so many options for how to shape the day. We married in the Walled Garden after a torrential downpour the day before. The team knew how much we wanted an outdoor ceremony and made it happen, setting up both outside and inside as a backup. We also loved the bright Morning Room, and the main hall staircase made a beautiful backdrop for some of our favourite photos, including the cake cutting. Having the venue to ourselves, with rooms for our closest friends and family, was a big plus. The food had been incredible on our visits, though we wondered if it could be just as good for 70 guests. It was. There were three choices for each course, and the food, drinks, and service were excellent. Our family and friends praised the meal too, which meant a lot. More than anything, the Saltmarshe staff made our wedding. Amy, Ellie, Mark, Michael, and the rest of the team felt like friends beside us all day, while staying completely professional. Amy’s planning meetings were thorough and reassuring, with helpful ideas about what to include and what to avoid. She wanted all the little details, including key vendor information, so nothing came as a surprise. She was always at the end of a call or email, even for my smallest questions, and on the day she seemed to have thought of everything before I had. Seeing her nearby was a real comfort. The whole team went out of their way for us: they put personalised gift bags in every guest room, got our favourite champagne even though it wasn’t usually on the bar menu, brought me water as soon as I said I was thirsty, and kept our flower girl company after she fell five minutes before we walked down the aisle. Nothing felt like too much trouble. The night porter packed everything up after the wedding, so we could enjoy every last moment before checkout. We booked about 18 months ahead and got married on the late May bank holiday in 2025. Guests told us the day ran more smoothly than other weddings they’d attended. I sometimes wonder if we’re biased because it was our once-in-a-lifetime day, but we’re so glad we chose Saltmarshe Hall, Amy, and her team. Our only complaint is that we can’t do it all again! Photo credit - Natalie Hamilton

The staff were lovely throughout the hotel, and our room was comfortable and nicely decorated. Breakfast was very tasty, and we enjoyed the delicious food in general. We had cream tea in the library with music playing, too. It’s a great place to switch off, with nice walks and a chance to watch the changing tides. There’s a swimming pool on site, and hopefully a gym will be added soon. The place lets you sink into the past. They also put on events for adults and children, including yoga, Mother’s Day, and Easter egg hunts. I’d love to return for afternoon tea or a Sunday roast. Definitely hoping to visit in spring or summer.

We cycled over from York, and the location is beautiful. The staff were really helpful and happily stored our bikes in the cellar. Breakfasts were wonderful, and the food was great. The only possible downside was an oddly entertaining couple who seemed like professional complainers. The staff dealt with them with amazing patience, which was quite something to watch.