Farington Lodge Hotel

This was our third visit, and it felt even better than the previous times, which have always been good. I don't know whether there has been more attention to training or a new manager, but the service was superb. The team made a fuss of our dog, and the hotel is genuinely dog friendly. Our downstairs room was warm, clean and spacious, with a lovely comfortable bed and easy access to the grounds for walks. The location near the motorways was handy for seeing friends and family, and it was nice to have a good choice of vegan food. Dean in the bar was excellent. At breakfast, a lovely young woman set us up in the bar with a white tablecloth so the dog could stay with us without disturbing anyone in the main breakfast room. She remembered our breakfast order and couldn't have been more attentive. Sorry, I didn't get her name. Thank you.

The breakfast was freshly cooked and tasty, served in an elegant dining room with white tablecloths. It made the morning feel special, and the staff were polite and efficient. We stayed one night to visit friends who live a short walk away. I already knew of this lovely historic building. The room was bigger than expected, with a bath and separate shower, and everything was clean and well maintained. I'd definitely stay again. Thank you.

Seven of us from the family booked rooms, and the hotel was comfortable, with a lovely location near rail links. They arranged taxis for us too. The bedroom heating was good despite it being 2° when we visited, and the bathroom underfloor heating was excellent. Just watch out when you step from the shower, as the mat slipped. The younger family members in their thirties thought the hotel was dated, while the parents saw it as traditional and comfortable. Staff were welcoming and lovely, though I think management should review their induction training. I'm sorry to say the buffet breakfast wasn't up to standard. The food was cooked and I'm sure met food hygiene rules, but it looked undercooked and everything was tepid. Some bread was toasted on only one side. I'd plated my breakfast when I got to the eggs, only to be told they weren't ready and I'd have to come back. Happily, the eggs were very good once they arrived. We were only there for one night. I'd return if I were in the area, but I wouldn't have breakfast again, even though it was included. It's sad to feel that way, but I wanted to give an honest review.

Dinner was good, and the restaurant staff were friendly and attentive. The deputy manager was around on both days and took care to make sure the stay suited us. It was a relaxing, pleasant visit. My wife and I stayed for one night on Valentine's Day. We'd visited earlier and the deputy manager showed us the rooms after we asked for a downstairs room with a walk-in shower. The one we chose was spacious, comfortable and had a nice outlook.