The Caledonian Thistle Hotel
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Summary of reviewsThe The Caledonian Thistle Hotel in Callander enjoys a prime location in the heart of the village, earning high accolades for its central position that offers easy access to shops, restaurants, takeaways and scenic nature spots. Guests appreciate the convenience of free parking and the hotel's proximity to local amenities, making it a superb base for exploring the area.
While breakfast at the hotel has seen mixed reviews, those who experienced it praised the quality and variety, particularly the traditional Scottish offerings and vegetarian options. However, the availability of breakfast has been inconsistent with many guests noting that it was often unavailable due to staffing shortages or other issues, leading to some disappointment.
Dinner experiences have also received varied feedback. Guests commend the high quality of the food and the charming atmosphere in both the bar and restaurant. However, the frequent closures of these facilities due to staff shortages have been a notable concern, prompting guests to seek dining options elsewhere.
The spacious, clean and cozy rooms at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel are consistently praised. Many rooms offer beautiful views, enhancing the overall stay. While some guests feel that the decor is outdated and certain maintenance issues need addressing, the overall room experience is positive, particularly the family rooms which are noted for their ample space and cleanliness.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel is generally well-regarded with many areas being described as very clean and comfortable. However, there are occasional lapses, including dirty showers and dusty surfaces, indicating a need for more consistent upkeep.
The staff at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel receive high praise for their warmth, friendliness and helpfulness. Their exceptional service significantly enhances the guest experience, making visitors feel welcome and well looked after.
Free WiFi is offered but has received mixed reviews with some guests finding it excellent while others report reliability issues. Despite these occasional connectivity problems, other aspects such as the breakfast remain a highlight.
Parking facilities at the hotel are highly appreciated for their convenience and security, offering ample space and proximity to EV chargers. This feature adds considerable value to the stay, particularly for guests traveling by car.
The hotel stands out for its family-friendly environment and excellent accommodations for guests with pets. Spacious family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere make it a suitable choice for families and pet owners. The friendly staff further contribute to the positive experience.
Guests generally find the beds to be comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, although there are occasional remarks about mattress firmness and bed sizes.
As a three-star establishment, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel offers a budget-friendly and practical option, appealing to those who prioritize affordability and basic comforts. While the building and decor may be dated, the historical charm and exceptional value make it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers.
In conclusion, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel presents a blend of charm, convenience and value with a few areas in need of improvement. Its location, friendly staff, spacious rooms and pet-friendly policies make it a commendable choice for visitors to Callander.
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While breakfast at the hotel has seen mixed reviews, those who experienced it praised the quality and variety, particularly the traditional Scottish offerings and vegetarian options. However, the availability of breakfast has been inconsistent with many guests noting that it was often unavailable due to staffing shortages or other issues, leading to some disappointment.
Dinner experiences have also received varied feedback. Guests commend the high quality of the food and the charming atmosphere in both the bar and restaurant. However, the frequent closures of these facilities due to staff shortages have been a notable concern, prompting guests to seek dining options elsewhere.
The spacious, clean and cozy rooms at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel are consistently praised. Many rooms offer beautiful views, enhancing the overall stay. While some guests feel that the decor is outdated and certain maintenance issues need addressing, the overall room experience is positive, particularly the family rooms which are noted for their ample space and cleanliness.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel is generally well-regarded with many areas being described as very clean and comfortable. However, there are occasional lapses, including dirty showers and dusty surfaces, indicating a need for more consistent upkeep.
The staff at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel receive high praise for their warmth, friendliness and helpfulness. Their exceptional service significantly enhances the guest experience, making visitors feel welcome and well looked after.
Free WiFi is offered but has received mixed reviews with some guests finding it excellent while others report reliability issues. Despite these occasional connectivity problems, other aspects such as the breakfast remain a highlight.
Parking facilities at the hotel are highly appreciated for their convenience and security, offering ample space and proximity to EV chargers. This feature adds considerable value to the stay, particularly for guests traveling by car.
The hotel stands out for its family-friendly environment and excellent accommodations for guests with pets. Spacious family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere make it a suitable choice for families and pet owners. The friendly staff further contribute to the positive experience.
Guests generally find the beds to be comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, although there are occasional remarks about mattress firmness and bed sizes.
As a three-star establishment, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel offers a budget-friendly and practical option, appealing to those who prioritize affordability and basic comforts. While the building and decor may be dated, the historical charm and exceptional value make it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers.
In conclusion, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel presents a blend of charm, convenience and value with a few areas in need of improvement. Its location, friendly staff, spacious rooms and pet-friendly policies make it a commendable choice for visitors to Callander.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Parking
EV charging stations
Cheap Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Guest Reviews
The The Caledonian Thistle Hotel in Callander boasts an exceptional and highly praised location, situated right in the heart of this charming village. Its central position on the main street allows guests easy access to a variety of shops, restaurants and takeaways, as well as beautiful scenic spots such as the nearby river and surrounding nature reserves.
Visitors repeatedly mention the convenience of free parking and the hotel's proximity to local amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring Callander and the wider Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park area. Despite occasional mentions of noise from the main road, the consensus is that the geographical location of the hotel is superb, offering picturesque views and a lively town atmosphere.
Whether for a short stopover or a longer stay, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel's prime location offers a blend of accessibility, charm and convenience, earning it high marks from guests.
The breakfast experience at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel presents a mixed picture. On the positive side, guests who managed to have breakfast praised it as excellent, delicious and fulfilling. Many appreciated the traditional Scottish offerings, noting the breakfast was good, fresh and provided plenty of options including vegetarian choices. Some mentioned that the in-house cafe served a good, filling cooked breakfast, while others highlighted an exceptional breakfast selection and great value for the price. Those who dined in the pub beneath the hotel also found the breakfast to be superb and fresh.
However, numerous guests faced significant issues regarding the availability of breakfast. There were repeated mentions of no breakfast being available at all during their stay, despite it being advertised or included in the booking. This was often attributed to staffing shortages or closures of the hotel's restaurant and bar facilities. Some guests were directed to nearby bakeries or coffee shops to find breakfast. The timing of the breakfast service was also a problem for some with delays until nearly 8:30 am, which was inconvenient for early risers.
Additionally, when breakfast was provided, it was typically limited to a continental selection, which many found disappointing, preferring a full cooked option. This continental option often consisted of pre-packaged, minimal items, falling short of guest expectations. The inconsistency and cost of the breakfast service were also points of dissatisfaction.
In summary, while the quality of the breakfast at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel received positive remarks from those who experienced it, its availability and reliability were significant concerns for many guests.
The dinner experience at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel garnered a mix of feedback from guests. Several reviews highlighted the high quality of the food, praising it as very good, lovely and delicious. Both the bar and restaurant are acknowledged positively with guests describing the bar atmosphere as brilliant, super cozy and the pub downstairs as great with a good choice of drinks. The setting is noted for its charm, contributing to a great atmosphere for diners.
However, there were significant issues with the restaurant and bar availability. Many reviews pointed out that these facilities were frequently closed, often due to staff shortages or COVID-19 measures, leaving no dining options for guests. As a result, visitors had to seek meals elsewhere, despite the hotel staff's efforts to accommodate needs by providing cutlery and plates for takeaway meals.
In summary, while the food and atmosphere received commendations, consistent access to the restaurant and bar facilities was a notable concern, affecting the overall dining experience at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
At The Caledonian Thistle Hotel, guests consistently highlight the spaciousness of the rooms, often describing them as very large, roomy and cozy. Many rooms feature beautiful views, whether of the street, the river or the surrounding areas, enhancing the overall ambiance. Cleanliness is frequently noted with numerous reviews mentioning that the rooms were spotlessly clean, tidy and comfortable, making for a satisfactory stay.
However, the hotel is not without its downsides. Several guests point out that the rooms are outdated and could benefit from modernisation or a refresh. Some issues with maintenance, such as broken drawers, missing light bulbs and non-functional showers, are occasionally mentioned. Additionally, soundproofing could be improved, as noise from neighboring rooms is sometimes noticeable.
Family rooms, in particular, receive positive comments for their size and cleanliness, making them a preferred choice for larger groups or those needing extra space. The decor of the rooms, while traditional and charming to some, is considered old-fashioned and in need of an update by others. Despite these detractors, the comfortable beds and adequate room facilities contribute to a generally pleasant experience for most guests.
In summary, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel provides spacious and clean accommodations with lovely views and a touch of historical charm. Although some updating and minor maintenance are needed, the hotel offers good value for money, especially for those prioritizing room size and cleanliness.
Guest reviews of the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel present a mixed yet generally favorable impression of the bed quality. Keywords frequently used include comfortable, clean and comfy, reflecting that many visitors experienced a high level of comfort during their stay. Numerous mentions of comfortable beds and clean bedding highlight the hotel's commitment to cleanliness and guest comfort. Beds were often described as very comfy with high-quality mattresses and linen contributing to good nights' sleep. However, some reviews noted issues with bed comfort, mentioning too-soft or hard mattresses and instances of discomfort. Double beds were occasionally described as small, not sufficient for two people and there were mentions of beds being far apart or located in specific room areas like the kids' section. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment points towards a generally comfortable and pleasant sleeping experience at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
The The Caledonian Thistle Hotel has generally received mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. On the positive side, many guests have noted that the rooms and public areas such as hallways, reception and dining spaces are very clean. Clean towels and linens are reliably provided and some guests found their rooms to be spotless and spacious. The overall environment is often described as clean and comfortable, adding to the charm of the hotel.
However, there are noticeable issues that need attention. While some rooms are kept in pristine condition, others fall short. Specific complaints include dirty showers, dusty and dirty surfaces, cobwebs and musty odors. Problem areas also extend to moldy shower curtains, old curtains and dated decor that detracts from the overall cleanliness.
In summary, when booking a stay at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel, guests might encounter varying levels of cleanliness with some rooms being exceptionally clean while others may require more thorough attention to detail.
The staff at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel receive consistent high praise for their warm, friendly service and helpful demeanor. Guests frequently mention the exceptional friendliness and approachability of the team, from the bar and reception staff to the management. Many reviews highlight that the staff go out of their way to assist visitors, providing excellent recommendations and willing support for various needs, including managing luggage and addressing maintenance issues. The manager, Leo, is particularly noted for his professionalism, hard work and welcoming nature, often making guests feel right at home. The hotel owners and housekeeping staff also contribute to the positive experience with their politeness and readiness to help. Overall, the staff’s kindness, charm and dedication significantly enhance guests' stays, making the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel a highly recommended choice for those seeking exceptional service and a friendly atmosphere.
The The Caledonian Thistle Hotel offers free WiFi, which some guests found to be very good or excellent. However, the hotel appears to have significant issues with internet connectivity overall. Many guests reported poor, unreliable or non-existent WiFi with some finding it necessary to stay in specific spots to maintain a signal. There were mentions of the WiFi working only in the lobby or being generally slow. Despite these issues, the hotel does provide an internet connection, albeit one that could benefit from substantial improvements. Other aspects of the stay were positive, such as the good breakfast offered. However, there were additional inconveniences like non-working TV remotes, card payment issues and the lack of a bar or food service which may detract from the overall experience.
The Caledonian Thistle Hotel offers a variety of parking options highly appreciated by guests. The hotel boasts ample, convenient and free parking on-site, often described as private and secure. There is a large car park at the rear, providing a safe spot for both cars and motorbikes. Additionally, there is plenty of public parking nearby, including areas next to EV chargers, which enhance convenience for electric vehicle owners. Some reviewers noted the car park could be better sign-posted and improved in terms of lighting, yet generally, guests found parking to be good, easy and of considerable value. Despite minor observations about the car park being basic and on a slight slope, the availability of abundant and free parking remains a standout feature for those staying at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
The Caledonian Thistle Hotel has garnered considerable praise for its family-friendly environment, particularly highlighting its spacious family rooms. Reviewers frequently appreciated the large and comfortable accommodations that provide ample space for families, making stays more relaxing. Many guests emphasized the welcoming atmosphere, noting it is suitably family-friendly and even accommodating to pets.
The hotel staff received positive remarks for their friendliness and readiness to assist with all aspects of the stay, further contributing to the family-friendly atmosphere. The presence of a family pub and a restaurant on the premises also added convenience for guests looking to dine without leaving the hotel. Children are welcome and there are family activities available, ensuring that younger guests remain entertained during their stay.
Overall, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel stands out for its excellent services tailored to families, as well as its spacious rooms that offer comfort and a welcoming environment for both parents and children.
The The Caledonian Thistle Hotel offers a budget-friendly stay that is fitting for its three-star rating. Clean rooms and an old-fashioned aesthetic characterize this establishment, which, while not luxurious, adequately serves its purpose for visitors. Though the building and décor are undeniably dated with some areas in need of updates and repairs, many guests find this acceptable given the affordable rates.
The facilities and services align with standard three-star offerings in the area, providing a basic but satisfactory experience. Guests should manage their expectations as the hotel looks better in photographs than in reality with older furnishings and an unsightly façade reflecting its age. Despite these imperfections, the exceptional value and fair pricing make it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Guests who appreciate historical charm and can overlook the lack of modern updates often find themselves content with their stay. The overall sentiment is positive with many willing to recommend the hotel to family and friends and expressing a willingness to return. For those seeking a no-frills, economical option, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel stands as a solid choice that meets basic needs without breaking the bank.
The The Caledonian Thistle Hotel stands out for its exceptional dog-friendly facilities and services. Guests frequently highlighted the hotel's welcoming attitude towards dogs with numerous mentions of the property being dog friendly and even very dog friendly. Pets are allowed and welcomed in various areas of the hotel, including the family and dog-friendly bar. Additionally, many guests noted how their dogs were made to feel very welcome during their stay.
The hotel does charge an extra £10 per night for those bringing their furry companions, although some reviewers mentioned there was no additional cost for their dog. The friendly staff further contribute to the positive experience, often being described as dog-friendly themselves. The hotel's central location adds to its appeal, making it a convenient option for pet owners visiting the area. Overall, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel is a super place if one travels with dogs, providing a warm and accommodating environment for both pets and their owners.
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Location
Visitors repeatedly mention the convenience of free parking and the hotel's proximity to local amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring Callander and the wider Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park area. Despite occasional mentions of noise from the main road, the consensus is that the geographical location of the hotel is superb, offering picturesque views and a lively town atmosphere.
Whether for a short stopover or a longer stay, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel's prime location offers a blend of accessibility, charm and convenience, earning it high marks from guests.
Breakfast
However, numerous guests faced significant issues regarding the availability of breakfast. There were repeated mentions of no breakfast being available at all during their stay, despite it being advertised or included in the booking. This was often attributed to staffing shortages or closures of the hotel's restaurant and bar facilities. Some guests were directed to nearby bakeries or coffee shops to find breakfast. The timing of the breakfast service was also a problem for some with delays until nearly 8:30 am, which was inconvenient for early risers.
Additionally, when breakfast was provided, it was typically limited to a continental selection, which many found disappointing, preferring a full cooked option. This continental option often consisted of pre-packaged, minimal items, falling short of guest expectations. The inconsistency and cost of the breakfast service were also points of dissatisfaction.
In summary, while the quality of the breakfast at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel received positive remarks from those who experienced it, its availability and reliability were significant concerns for many guests.
Dinner
However, there were significant issues with the restaurant and bar availability. Many reviews pointed out that these facilities were frequently closed, often due to staff shortages or COVID-19 measures, leaving no dining options for guests. As a result, visitors had to seek meals elsewhere, despite the hotel staff's efforts to accommodate needs by providing cutlery and plates for takeaway meals.
In summary, while the food and atmosphere received commendations, consistent access to the restaurant and bar facilities was a notable concern, affecting the overall dining experience at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
Rooms
However, the hotel is not without its downsides. Several guests point out that the rooms are outdated and could benefit from modernisation or a refresh. Some issues with maintenance, such as broken drawers, missing light bulbs and non-functional showers, are occasionally mentioned. Additionally, soundproofing could be improved, as noise from neighboring rooms is sometimes noticeable.
Family rooms, in particular, receive positive comments for their size and cleanliness, making them a preferred choice for larger groups or those needing extra space. The decor of the rooms, while traditional and charming to some, is considered old-fashioned and in need of an update by others. Despite these detractors, the comfortable beds and adequate room facilities contribute to a generally pleasant experience for most guests.
In summary, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel provides spacious and clean accommodations with lovely views and a touch of historical charm. Although some updating and minor maintenance are needed, the hotel offers good value for money, especially for those prioritizing room size and cleanliness.
Beds
Cleanliness
However, there are noticeable issues that need attention. While some rooms are kept in pristine condition, others fall short. Specific complaints include dirty showers, dusty and dirty surfaces, cobwebs and musty odors. Problem areas also extend to moldy shower curtains, old curtains and dated decor that detracts from the overall cleanliness.
In summary, when booking a stay at the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel, guests might encounter varying levels of cleanliness with some rooms being exceptionally clean while others may require more thorough attention to detail.
Staff
Wi-Fi
Parking
Family
The hotel staff received positive remarks for their friendliness and readiness to assist with all aspects of the stay, further contributing to the family-friendly atmosphere. The presence of a family pub and a restaurant on the premises also added convenience for guests looking to dine without leaving the hotel. Children are welcome and there are family activities available, ensuring that younger guests remain entertained during their stay.
Overall, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel stands out for its excellent services tailored to families, as well as its spacious rooms that offer comfort and a welcoming environment for both parents and children.
3 Star
The facilities and services align with standard three-star offerings in the area, providing a basic but satisfactory experience. Guests should manage their expectations as the hotel looks better in photographs than in reality with older furnishings and an unsightly façade reflecting its age. Despite these imperfections, the exceptional value and fair pricing make it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Guests who appreciate historical charm and can overlook the lack of modern updates often find themselves content with their stay. The overall sentiment is positive with many willing to recommend the hotel to family and friends and expressing a willingness to return. For those seeking a no-frills, economical option, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel stands as a solid choice that meets basic needs without breaking the bank.
Dog Friendly
The hotel does charge an extra £10 per night for those bringing their furry companions, although some reviewers mentioned there was no additional cost for their dog. The friendly staff further contribute to the positive experience, often being described as dog-friendly themselves. The hotel's central location adds to its appeal, making it a convenient option for pet owners visiting the area. Overall, the The Caledonian Thistle Hotel is a super place if one travels with dogs, providing a warm and accommodating environment for both pets and their owners.
No, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
Yes, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Caledonian Thistle Hotel.
No, The Caledonian Thistle Hotel doesn't have a gym.
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