Stonecross Manor Hotel

The stairs looked like a building site, with thick dust and debris on the carpet. You could write your name in the banister dust, and the overpowering smell of industrial glue or fibreglass was enough to make you feel high. The pool and spa were closed for renovations, which we should have noticed in the description, but the hotel itself felt dismal and had no atmosphere. On the Friday before Christmas, it was empty. We were glad we'd cancelled our dinner booking and gone into town instead. Maybe it's too far out for people to come in just to eat. Breakfast was just as bleak, with only the two of us there. The menu listed breakfast for non-guests at £15.50, but I’d go elsewhere for that price. The fruit salad was turning brown and seemed a day old. The photo made it look better than it was. There were just a couple of slices of bread for self-service toast until the girl brought more after we asked. The cooked breakfast was nice, though my husband asked for just bacon and got two rashers on a large plate. He had to ask for more. We paid far too much for what we got. It was disappointing, and I wouldn't recommend the place or stay there again.

There were only two of us in the restaurant, so we didn't need to reserve a table for lunch. I wanted to try the menu before taking my neighbours from an independent living retirement establishment there for their Christmas Fayre lunch. The pork loin and venison were tough, and the potatoes were burnt. I only saw the receptionist, who seemed to be acting as chef and waitress too. We left to find dessert elsewhere, having skipped a starter. Lunch for two came to £56 with a glass of wine and coffee. I won't be going back.

The shower sprayed water all over the bathroom, and the whole place should probably be shut for refurbishment. I booked for the spa facilities, only to find they were closed for renovations. That should be stated on the website. Then they had the cheek to ask whether I'd pay extra for breakfast. I felt ripped off and should get a full refund.

About 30 of us had a great time at our Ski Club Christmas dinner on Saturday 29th November. The food was very good and the service excellent, so we've already booked again for next year. Thanks to Helen for sorting out the table names and everything.