Bartley Lodge Hotel

Our room smelled unpleasant, and the mugs at breakfast were all dirty. The glass cups felt sticky, even though they were supposed to be clean. The pool was grubby and mouldy, and I wouldn't bother going down to it. Outside tables were visibly dirty too, although the gardens were well kept. We were there one night with our children and found the hotel's cleanliness below expectations. Service was also poor. When our key card stopped working, no one was available at reception, and staff didn't seem sure who could fix it. We felt there was little interest in guest care. I wouldn't recommend the hotel based on this stay. Thankfully it was only one night; if we'd stayed longer, I would have checked out early. Basic cleanliness matters.

The team were warm and attentive, and breakfast was fresh and well organised. Our room was comfortable and nicely presented, while the peaceful grounds made it easy to unwind. The hotel has a relaxed countryside feel with a little refinement. We came to visit Paultons Park, and Bartley Lodge Hotel was a convenient, calm base in the heart of the New Forest after a full day out. We'd happily return if we wanted somewhere quiet to recharge.

I loved my autumn visit, especially spotting fungi, and I'm already looking forward to coming back. There are lovely forest walks just off the lane on the way in, and ponies on the cricket field about ten minutes away. The grounds and hotel are beautiful, with log fires often kept going, though it's warm anyway. The hotel is clean and stylish, and the staff are super friendly and efficient. As you'd expect, the better rooms cost more. Breakfast was delicious: I had the vegetarian option with halloumi, spinach, poached eggs, avocado, tomato, mushrooms, beans and hash brown, all cooked perfectly.

The food was a definite plus, especially the beer battered fish and excellentpeed, and the house itself is pretty grand. It's family and dog friendly, and there's a pool that would have been useful if we'd brought the kids. The current average rating of about 3.9 feels fair. Value for money seemed about right, and it could work for a special weekend away, though I suspect most people would only go once. What held it back for me was the lack of atmosphere and the sense that nobody was in charge. One staff member stood out as genuinely enthusiastic and friendly, with a real hospitality spirit. The others were all lovely people, without exception, but seemed under duress, and morale felt low.