Lillypool Lodges

We shortened our trip because we couldn't face another night in those beds. The springs pressed into my hips after a five-hour drive, and my daughter's pull-out sofa bed wasn't much better. A bright light above the door also kept the room from getting dark. The rooms themselves were clean, but the online photo of a farm among rolling hills hides the busy road behind a long hedge. We heard traffic instead of animals. The cafe was very basic, with only a laminated notice about allergies and intolerances, and no non-dairy milk for my coffee. The food was basic and very greasy, too. Getting in was a struggle: the mobile number on the sign belonged to the old owner, nobody answered the landline, and there was no signal on site. We had to drive to a nearby town to check our email for the key safe code. Internet access supplied by lilypool farm was very poor.

The staff gave the impression they didn't want us there, and the food was disappointing too. Our muffin was burnt, and the full English didn't seem fresh. I'd expected better, since the good reviews and the 'farm shop' label made me think the food would be fresh and high quality. We ordered a full English and an English muffin, and asked for two lattes, but there was some confusion and we got two instant coffees with just a little milk. Wouldn't recommend it.

The food was great, though it was a pity the large breakfast came without tomatoes or mushrooms. We went on a Saturday morning and found the place full, so there was a bit of a wait for a table. Our order took around 20-30 minutes to arrive. The loaded breakfast felt pretty overpriced, and the coffee was instant coffee made with hot water. Fine for a quick breakfast, but I wouldn't choose it for a long stay.

We spotted it on Google near our holiday park and decided to give it a try. Glad we did. The food was fantastic, and the staff were genuinely helpful and friendly. I'd highly recommend it.