St James Hotel

Breakfast was great, and the staff were informative and efficient. I had a lovely night there. The hotel was clean, though there was dust above head height and behind the TV; I had to call down for it to be recleaned after the previous occupant, and staff dealt with that promptly. The classic room seemed designed in the 1960s and built in the 70s. Both hair dryers were out of order, a comfy chair needs to be put back in the room, and it would be worth turning on the heating.

We had a lovely Christmas lunch there last year, so the three of us booked again yesterday. This time was a real disappointment. It was very busy, mostly with what I guess were office staff having afternoon teas. After we were shown to our seats, nobody came over for 20 minutes. I had to ask when service would start, and was told to go to the bar if we wanted a drink. Our starter eventually arrived, then we waited another ten minutes for the Christmas meal. The vegetables were awful, mainly cabbage with very few sprouts and just a bit of broccoli and carrots. The meal was cold, and the soggy, cold Yorkshire pudding says enough. Money wasted, and we definitely won't be going back.

The deep white bath was pure bliss, and although it's an older hotel, I found it very comfortable. The friendly staff made a point of greeting me, which I noticed. Very good, I'd certainly stay again.

Breakfast and our evening meal were both very good. The St James Hotel was clean and comfortable, with plenty of polite, helpful staff. We had an excellent stay and I'd highly recommend it.