Balloch, The Balloch House, Balloch Road56.003848,-4.580636(Show on Map)
8.0
Very Good
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Checkin - Checkout dates
1 Room2 Guests
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Summary of reviews
Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection is highly praised for its picturesque location by the River Leven and near Loch Lomond, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those exploring the Trossachs. The hotel's proximity to key attractions, local amenities and transportation options enhance its appeal. Ample parking makes it particularly convenient for car travelers. Its charm extends to the beautiful landscape views and practical accessibility for both relaxation and active pursuits.
Guests commonly describe the breakfast as delicious and abundant with freshly prepared meals and a wide range of options. The quality of the food and the friendly, attentive staff add to a positive dining experience. Specific dishes such as eggs benedict and full English breakfasts receive notable praise. Some minor negatives include occasional waiting times and a wish for more variety, but the overall sentiment remains positive, deeming breakfast a valuable inclusion.
Dinner at Balloch House also garners great reviews with many guests lauding the exceptional food quality and diverse menu. Favorites like the Sunday roast, rib of beef and pizza margarita are frequently highlighted. The warm, inviting pub ambiance and efficient, friendly service further enhance the dining experience. While some menu limitations and instances of slow service are mentioned, the general consensus is that dinner at the hotel is a delightful experience.
Rooms are mostly appreciated for their cleanliness, spaciousness and attractive decor with modern amenities. Scenic views of the river and Loch Lomond add a special touch. Family rooms are noted for their comfort and ample space. Though some reviews mention that certain rooms appear dated or in need of minor repairs, the overall perception is one of comfort and charm, making the rooms a pleasant aspect of the stay.
Cleanliness receives mixed feedback. While many guests commend the clean and well-maintained rooms and bathrooms, some note issues in communal areas and occasional lapses in room upkeep. Despite this, the hotel maintains a generally positive impression of cleanliness.
The staff at Balloch House stand out for their friendliness and helpfulness, significantly contributing to the hotel's warm and welcoming atmosphere. Numerous guests highlight the exceptional service, particularly praising individual staff members for their dedication. There are occasional reports of rushed or inattentive service, but the majority view the staff as a major asset, enhancing the overall guest experience.
WiFi service, while adequate for basic needs, receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback includes good speed and stable connections, but frequent log-ins and inconsistent connectivity in certain areas detract from the experience. An upgrade could likely improve the overall service.
Family-friendly accommodations are notably praised with spacious and comfortable family rooms that cater well to children. Features like fold-out sofas and engaging room layouts contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families. While minor issues such as the comfort of sofa beds are noted, the positive aspects make it a great choice for families.
The beds receive mixed reviews with many finding them comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, enhanced by cozy linens and pillows. However, some guests find the beds too firm and sofa beds particularly uncomfortable. These aspects could benefit from some improvements to ensure a universally comfortable sleep experience.
Overall, Balloch House by Innkeeper’s Collection provides a satisfying three-star experience, aligning well with its rating. While some external aspects of the building might look worn, the interior facilities and service meet modern expectations, offering good value, particularly for families and travelers seeking a comfortable, budget-friendly option.
Categories
4 Star
This hotel provides comfortable accommodations with a restaurant and bar on-site. It offers a convenient location for exploring Balloch and the surrounding area.
Family
Small
Room Types
Double RoomThis en suite room comes with a TV, desk and tea/coffee making facilities.
Family Room (2 Adults + 2 Children)This en suite room comes with a TV, desk and tea/coffee making facilities. Comes with a double sofa bed for children up to 15 years.
Small Double RoomThis single room features a private bathroom, and an electric kettle. This single room offers a flat-screen TV.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Review Summaries
Location
Nestled in a beautiful setting by the River Leven and just beside Loch Lomond, Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection boasts an ideal location acclaimed by guests. This charming hotel offers stunning views of the loch and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the picturesque landscapes.
Visitors rave about the hotel's proximity to key attractions, such as Balloch Castle and country park. The convenient location also ensures easy access to boat trips and scenic walks along the loch, which guests thoroughly enjoy. The hotel's central position in Balloch means it's within walking distance to cafes, restaurants and other amenities, including the railway station, making it a practical choice for both leisure and functional purposes.
The location not only provides beautiful views but also serves as an excellent base for further exploration of the Loch Lomond area and its surrounding villages. Many guests appreciate the hotel's ample parking, enhancing its convenience for those traveling by car. Whether for a quiet retreat or an active exploration of the Trossachs, Balloch House positions itself as a central and serene hub, much to the delight of its visitors.
Breakfast
The breakfast at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection has garnered a variety of feedback from guests with many praising the quality and range available. Numerous guests described the breakfast as delicious, fantastic and exceptional, highlighting freshly prepared and well-cooked meals. Large portions and a wide range of options were frequently mentioned with some reviews noting the availability of unique highlights like fresh fish and various meats.
The ambiance contributed positively to the breakfast experience with several reviews commenting on the friendly and attentive staff. Notable dishes and chef specials, such as pulled ham on eggs benedict and full English breakfasts, were specifically applauded. Despite a few criticisms about limited choices, lengthy waiting times and occasional quality issues such as overcooked eggs and microwaved food, the overall sentiment toward the breakfast experience was positive.
Guests also appreciated the breakfast being included in the price of their stay, enhancing the perceived value. However, some noted that items wished for, like hashbrowns or yogurt with granola, were occasionally unavailable. While a small number mentioned being disappointed with the breakfast quality and variety, most found it hearty, satisfying and a perfect start to their day.
In sum, the breakfast at Balloch House typically offers a delightful and substantial morning meal with standout dishes and commendable service, although some minor areas for improvement remain.
Dinner
The dining experience at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection is generally well-regarded by guests. The restaurant offers a fantastic array of dishes with many diners praising the excellent food quality and diverse evening menu. The meals are described as delicious, hearty and well worth a visit with particular commendations for their Sunday roast and rib of beef with dauphinoise potatoes. Guests frequently mention the delicious pizza margarita, lovely tasting food and note that the dinner menu, though sometimes limited, provides a satisfying selection.
Service in the restaurant is often highlighted as excellent with friendly and helpful staff contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere. The food is considered reasonably priced, offering good value for money and many guests appreciated the cozy pub ambiance that complements the dining experience.
However, there are occasional mentions of limited menu options, especially for vegetarians and some instances of dishes not being available. A few reviews pointed out issues with slow service and the restaurant being closed during renovations. Despite these occasional drawbacks, most guests appear to leave satisfied, looking forward to returning for another meal at this charming inn. Overall, Balloch House’s restaurant is praised for its culinary offerings, warm service and inviting atmosphere.
Rooms
The rooms at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection have received mixed reviews, but the positive aspects stand out considerably. Many guests appreciated the cleanliness and spaciousness of the rooms with several pointing out the lovely decor and modern amenities. Rooms offering views of the river and Loch Lomond were particularly praised for their scenic beauty, adding a delightful touch to the stay. The accommodation was frequently described as comfortable, cozy and well-furnished with tasteful decoration that enhanced the traditional charm of the hotel.
The family rooms were noted for being large and comfortable, ideal for group stays. Some visitors highlighted specific room features, such as balconies and large bathrooms, which were considered bonuses. The hotel's commitment to cleanliness was commonly affirmed with several reviews emphasizing the spotless condition of both rooms and bathrooms. Well-maintained and nicely decorated rooms left a positive impression on guests, making their stays enjoyable.
However, some guests mentioned that certain rooms looked a bit tired, dated and in need of refurbishing. Issues with maintenance, such as broken fittings, stained carpets and poorly maintained fixtures, were pointed out. A few rooms also suffered from poor lighting, unpleasant smells and noise, particularly those facing the main road. Despite these drawbacks, the overall comfort and cleanliness of the rooms were generally well-received by visitors.
In summary, while some updating and minor repairs could enhance the overall experience, the rooms at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection offer a pleasant and comfortable stay with their spaciousness, cleanliness and charming decor. The scenic views and modern facilities further contribute to a positive lodging experience.
Beds
The beds at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection have left guests with mixed impressions, though the majority tilt towards comfort. Many guests frequently described the standard beds as comfortable, very comfortable or even exceptionally well-decorated, leading to restful nights. Words like cozy and comfy pop up regularly with several reviewers appreciating the cozy bed linen and fresh, fluffy pillows, contributing to an enjoyable sleeping experience.
However, there are consistent mentions of the beds being too hard or firm for some guests with a few even finding them comparable to bricks, while others noted slight discomfort from hard mattresses. The sofa beds, particularly in family rooms, received more criticism, often being described as uncomfortable and in need of improvement or replacement. Some guests also pointed out issues with noisy, squeaky beds or those sloping towards the headboard, which detracted from an otherwise comfortable stay.
Overall, while standard beds generally provided good comfort and contributed to a pleasant stay, improvements to the firmness and quality of sofa beds could enhance the sleep experience at Balloch House.
Cleanliness
Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection has received mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness standards. Many guests have highlighted the hotel as being very clean with housekeeping efforts noticeable and rooms described as warm, tidy and comfortable. Bathrooms are particularly praised, often noted as newly decorated and spotlessly clean. Rooms generally maintain a high level of cleanliness with some guests commenting on fresh, clean sheets and towels provided daily.
However, not all feedback aligns with this positive outlook. A significant number of guests have reported issues such as mould in bathrooms, dirty communal areas, dusty lamps and poorly cleaned rooms. Public spaces, including hallways and stairways, are frequently mentioned as needing a thorough cleaning and some maintenance. There are mentions of stained carpets, cobwebs and mouldy showers, which detract from the overall experience.
While the hotel is generally praised for its spacious and clean rooms, some areas seem to require more consistent upkeep and attention to detail. Public areas and certain rooms are in need of a spruce-up to meet the higher standards observed in other parts of the hotel. Therefore, the hotel presents a mix of cleanliness experiences, shining in some aspects but falling short in others.
Staff
Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection boasts a team of incredibly friendly and helpful staff, consistently praised by guests for creating a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere. Numerous reviews highlight the exceptional attitude of the staff with special mentions for their kindness, attentiveness and overall professionalism. Elaine, a specific staff member and the excellent manager have received commendations for their dedicated service.
Guests often describe the staff as being very accommodating and always ready to assist with any requests, contributing significantly to a memorable stay. The bar staff also receive positive notes for their efficiency and polite demeanor, helping to enhance the experience further. The housekeeping team is noted for being reliably present and maintaining a clean environment.
There's a consistent theme of staff going out of their way to ensure guests' comfort, being described as super friendly, efficient and helpful. However, a few reviews mention less favorable interactions with some staff perceived as rushed, inattentive or even unwelcoming. Despite these occasional criticisms, the overwhelming majority of reviews emphasize the staff's genuine warmth and excellent service commitment, making guests feel truly valued and well-cared for during their stay at Balloch House.
Wi-Fi
The WiFi at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection has received mixed reviews from guests. On the positive side, there have been mentions of great WiFi speed, a stable connection, quick response times and good router function. Guests have noted that the WiFi mostly worked well and was stable with some describing it as generally okay. These aspects made it suitable for basic needs like keeping the kids entertained or casual browsing.
However, several issues have been raised. The WiFi required frequent log-ins and often necessitated inputting full details, which some found inconvenient. Connectivity was inconsistent with reports of patchy signals varying from room to room and occasional drop-outs. For some, this resulted in difficulties performing tasks such as accessing emails or using laptops. Despite these challenges, the WiFi did manage to fulfill basic services, though an upgrade could enhance the overall experience.
Family
Balloch House by Innkeeper’s Collection receives high praise for its family-friendly accommodations, specifically its spacious and comfortable family rooms. The family rooms are noted for their size and comfort, offering features like fold-out sofas which are particularly suitable for kids. The hotel's atmosphere is described as cozy and homely with a charming and inviting appeal that makes it perfect for families.
The hotel provides a variety of features catering to families, such as children's beds which are comfortably arranged and designed to offer a cozy environment. Certain rooms even include corner sofa beds that create a perfect play space for children, adding an element of fun to the stay. Additionally, the layout of the kids' beds near windows is seen as a positive feature, providing an educational opportunity for children to observe and learn about the surrounding views and birdlife.
The dining options at Balloch House also receive favorable mentions with a broad menu choice that caters to both breakfast and bar food preferences. However, some reviews noted the absence of a buffet breakfast, which might be less than ideal for kids who enjoy cereals like Rice Krispies.
Overall, the hotel is lauded for its ability to cater well to families, making it an excellent choice for travelers with young children or teenagers. While there were minor issues such as the comfort of the sofa beds, the overall experience appears to be highly positive with the hotel's environment and amenities contributing to a memorable stay for families.
3 Star
Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection offers a three-star experience that corresponds well to its rating and price point. Offering reasonable rates and being budget-friendly, the hotel delivers good overall service that meets the expectations of guests looking for a three-star standard stay. The bed quality stands out as higher than average within this category, making it a comfortable option for travelers.
The hotel’s layout and facilities are aligned with typical three-star basics, providing a sufficient and comfortable experience, especially for families. Many reviews describe it as a solid choice for its category with a new generation layout that captures modern expectations.
However, the exterior appearance of the building leaves something to be desired with comments highlighting its worn and uninviting look. Inside, public areas and hallways appear tired and in need of refurbishment. Issues such as chipped paint, bits of wallpaper coming off and dull corridors are mentioned, indicating that the property could greatly benefit from an update. Cleanliness in the rooms is generally acceptable, though improvements in tidiness and decor would enhance the overall guest experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the hotel remains a well-priced, serviceable option for those looking for a standard three-star stay. With some refurbishments and updates, Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection has the potential to offer a more appealing and inviting experience for travelers.
FAQ
No, Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection.
No, Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection.
No, Balloch House by Innkeeper's Collection doesn't have a gym.
