Retreat East

For my partner’s birthday, we stayed here a few weeks ago and absolutely loved it. The staff were so welcoming, and they’d put a birthday card and treat in our cabin, which was really kind. The spa facilities were brilliant, the food excellent, and the place felt very cosy. We couldn’t fault it and will definitely be back. Highly recommended, and thanks again!

The grounds are lovely for a relaxing walk, and the spa was great. Breakfast was excellent too. We had a fantastic stay at Retreat East and would happily return. Our apartment was large, warm and extremely well equipped, with a spacious bathroom, comfortable bedroom, living room and modern kitchen. Private parking right outside the room in the forecourt was an added bonus. The staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming and helpful throughout our visit.

The main surprise on the walk to the restaurant at 7pm, in winter darkness, was six or seven large brown rats running around the courtyard. Staff didn’t seem especially concerned. Later, ladybirds started emerging from hibernation in the cabin after a few hours in the evening, and there was nobody in the office, so we didn’t know what to do. We stayed two weeks ago. The parking felt like a “there will do” arrangement. Check-in with Max was fine, but the young lad who showed us to our cabin was somewhat curt. We knew the included spa slots had to be booked in advance and had done so, but it was a shame they started late and finished early both times. The hot tub booking was closer to 20 minutes, and many sauna floor panels were coming up. Our cabin at the bottom of the field was nice and quiet, but nothing special. There weren’t enough teabags and so on, though toiletries were well stocked. The wood burner worked, but there was only enough wood for a short evening fire. The food was nice, though I strongly disagree with adding a service charge to the bill automatically, and I was shocked the venue is cashless. Breakfast next morning was okay, not a great offering, and the coffee was bland. Checkout was handled by a lady who seemed rushed. It felt like the venue was focused on generating as much revenue as possible. We visited in low season, which in my opinion should let staff focus on exceptional customer service instead of making customers feel like a hindrance.

My husband and I spent our wedding night here, and the staff made the day feel as relaxing as possible. They were incredibly flexible, letting us check in late, check out, then return for lunch and our spa treatments. The food was absolutely incredible too. I recommend their Sunday pork roast.