Macdonald Compleat Angler

We’ve stayed at The compleat angler 17 times, and it’s become one of our favourite places to celebrate Christmas. It’s always beautifully decorated, and I could happily spend the whole day in the lounge. This year was especially memorable. The restaurant was very busy, but during our Christmas Eve dinner and lunch, om looked after us attentively and was always there with a smile whenever we needed anything. The staff were excellent, and Manager Charles was very accommodating. Room 94 was lovely, and housekeeping came every day. Thanks, om, for making the stay memorable. We’ll be back in summer to enjoy lawn dining.

I followed the instructions I was given for my work event, and now I’m facing court action and the threat of a CCJ over parking. Last May, I booked Feast Over Flames exclusively for a work event and was explicitly told to park at Macdonald Compleat Angler and meet the boat at their dock. We even had drinks at the pub beforehand and were clearly paying customers. I’ve sent the parking contractor email confirmations showing the event was booked, but they’re still pursuing me aggressively, saying only paying patrons can use the car park. This was a quiet Tuesday evening and the car park was practically empty. Instead of sorting out what seems to me an obvious mistake, they’ve escalated it to court action, which could damage my credit. I did nothing wrong and followed their directions. This isn’t just about parking, it’s about the principle. I wouldn’t spend my money at a place that treats paying customers this way and won’t correct the issue.

The setting by the river made for a really peaceful stay, and my room had a lovely view. It was spotless, spacious and beautifully furnished, with a very comfortable bed and clear attention to detail. The Macdonald Compleat Angler Hotel has classic charm while still feeling modern and comfortable. I stayed for two nights, and the staff were warm and attentive throughout. Check-in was smooth, and everyone I met was friendly and professional. Breakfast and dining were excellent, with high-quality food, great service and a lovely setting. I felt well looked after and would happily return. It’s a relaxing place for a memorable getaway.

Update: The hotel Reception Team responded very quickly and professionally, and helped resolve my complaint. Thank you. I’ve changed my rating from 1 to 5 stars. My complaint was about a parking ticket I received while charging my electric car at the public Roam EV charger in the hotel carpark. I used it on the evening of 23 Dec and didn’t realise I also had to pay for parking. Looking at Google maps now, I can see the car park sign, but it’s black and hard to see at night. It refers to car parking and doesn’t mention charging. From the reviews of the Roam EV charging station, it seems I’m not the first person to be fined while charging without paying for parking. Since the chargers are open to the public, please make it clear on the signs that parking charges still apply when you charge. The hotel website FAQs mention parking charges and that EV charging is available, but don’t say that you have to pay for parking while charging. A simple sticker on the charging machines beside the payment terminals would be enough. Clearer information could save people the unnecessary cost and hassle of tickets, and help keep the chargers available for hotel guests.