The Royal Oak Hotel And Restaurant

The cooked breakfast the next morning cost an extra £8 each, but it was worth it. Good coffee and a hearty breakfast made a fantastic start to the day. We'd eaten in the pub the night before, and the food was fresh, tasty and nicely prepared. After a local brewery tour at Weetwood Ales, we came back for drinks and live music. The atmosphere was great. Laurel welcomed us warmly and showed us to a really nice room, clean, comfortable and well equipped. She made us feel at home from the start. When we returned to the pub, Kristen looked after us and made us feel special. My wife and I stayed one night, and we'll be back.

The evening meals were excellent, as good as any starred restaurant, and the continental breakfast was fine. Our room was spacious and well equipped, with a good shower. The Royal Oak decor is beautiful. We stayed four nights from 29th Jan. Bands play on Friday nights, which is good fun, and there are quieter seating areas for anyone who'd prefer less noise. The management and staff were friendly and helpful, with advice on places to visit and walks. There's no lift, but I use a stick and managed the stairs. Anyone with serious mobility concerns should check what options are available for a stay. It's easy enough to get around for a visit without staying. An hourly daytime bus stops outside and runs between Norwich and Chester. We'll be returning.

They thoughtfully gave us a larger room and a cot without us having to ask, since we were travelling with a toddler. The room was spacious, clean and exceptionally comfortable. The building and pub have plenty of character, and the food was great. We'd happily stay again.

The service felt kind and friendly, with real people doing a really nice job instead of the usual “have a nice day” banality. We stayed one night and would gladly come back when we're in the area. The bar had a good choice of drinks, and the food was very nice. The soup and real ale pie was especially good. I stay away three or four nights a week most weeks, and this was a great change from business hotels with ready meals. Thanks, Royal Oak, you're doing a great job.