Sun Hotel Warkworth

We booked through booking.com and had to pay up front. I've never been more disappointed. The place was run down and dirty, and our room was very small. The bed badly needed a new mattress. The fabric headboard looked like it hadn't been vacuumed in well over a year, there was so much dust you could lift it. The laminate floors needed a proper sweep and wash. There were hairs and debris on the floor by the dressing table that looked like dog biscuits, so it seemed a previous occupant had had a dog there. The bathroom needed a damn good clean, with untouched corners and pipework thick with dust and fluff. It was all unacceptable, and we cut our anniversary celebrations short. The breakfast was good and the food in the bar was lovely, the only redeeming things about the hotel. Wouldn't go back.

Warkworth is a gem for exploring the castle, walking by the river or enjoying the peaceful village, and The Sun Hotel is perfectly placed. We won a complimentary night's stay through the Hotels International Lady Violet competition, which was a fantastic surprise, and this 17th-century coaching inn opposite Warkworth Castle exceeded my expectations. Harry, the manager, was friendly and attentive, knew a lot about the area, and he and the team made us feel valued even though we'd won the stay. The room was cosy and comfortable, with lovely views towards the castle and river. Waking up to that historic scenery was unbeatable. The creaky floors and other character of the building add to its Northumberland feel. Breakfast in the traditional dining room was hearty and delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed, with friendly locals popping in. Huge thanks to Harry and the whole team for making a free night into a memorable getaway. I'd happily return and pay next time. Highly recommended for a characterful stay in a stunning location. 5 stars!

The location is stunning, and the staff were very friendly and helpful when we attended a wedding. But the cleanliness needs a lot of attention. There was a nasty sewage-like smell in the rooms, and the dust shocked me. There were cobwebs in the shower, dust on the bathroom bin lid and toilet roll holder, and the back of the TV was thick with it. The entrance was disgusting. I can't understand how anyone thought it was suitable for a bride. The place felt disorganised, from checking into rooms through to the wedding day itself, with things lying around that shouldn't have been there. It didn't have the luxury feel shown online. I can imagine it was once stunning, but it's well overdue for a deep clean and decorating.

We're local and usually the food here is very good, which made this evening disappointing. We arrived at 16:50 and ordered two meals and two kids' meals. The pub was quiet and we were the only people waiting for food. It took 40 minutes for the kids' meals and one adult meal to arrive. We were told the sausages had exploded, so they needed to make another meal. Another 15 minutes went by with no food and no update. By then everyone else at the table had finished, so we asked for a refund for the last meal. Staff huffed and puffed before eventually giving it to us. We still got no explanation or apology, which was a shame since we eat here regularly.