Hempstead House Hotel & Restaurant is highly regarded for its myriad offerings and exceptional hospitality, set in a beautiful and serene location. This charming old manor house, nestled amidst well-maintained gardens, serves as an excellent backdrop for exploring the local area, including historical Faversham, Maidstone and the nearby Whitstable Beach. Despite Sittingbourne being relatively quiet, the hotel's peaceful atmosphere and convenient accessibility make it a favored choice.
Guests rave about the breakfast experience, praising the variety and quality of the food, from continental options to freshly cooked full English breakfasts. The dining experience extends to dinner at The Lakes restaurant, where the well-executed and beautifully presented meals, along with attentive service, leave a memorable impression. Although some feel the dinner menu could be more diverse and that prices are on the steeper side, the overall dining experience remains commendable.
The rooms at Hempstead House are celebrated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and stylish decor, blending historical charm with modern comforts. Descriptions highlight their pristine condition, attractive furnishings and restful beds, although there are minor mentions of narrow beds and occasional heating issues. The property is notably dog-friendly with facilities and services dedicated to making pets and their owners feel at home.
Cleanliness stands out as a prominent feature across the hotel, from the immaculate rooms to the well-maintained facilities, including the spa. The spa and pool facilities are particularly praised, offering a range of luxurious treatments, a warm indoor pool, a hydro pool and other wellness amenities that contribute to a rejuvenating stay.
The staff receive accolades for their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness, ensuring a welcoming environment and excellent service. This high level of hospitality extends from the reception to dining areas, significantly enhancing the overall experience.
Hempstead House Hotel & Restaurant encapsulates the essence of luxury, providing an opulent atmosphere without pretension, backed by superb facilities and decor that hint at a higher rating than its official three stars. Its historical charm, luxurious offerings and romantic ambiance make it a perfect retreat for special celebrations and intimate getaways. The delightfully dog-friendly policies further seal its appeal, inviting guests to return for another memorable stay.
Watercress Barns offers a serene retreat nestled in the heart of the countryside, making it an ideal escape for guests seeking peace and natural beauty. Its picturesque rural setting combines the tranquility of the countryside with convenient proximity to nearby towns and major routes, allowing visitors to enjoy both seclusion and accessibility. The accommodations at Watercress Barns are diverse and thoughtfully designed, providing spacious and exceptionally clean rooms that cater to a variety of tastes. Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable environment, with special mention of the well-designed hayloft. Despite occasional minor issues with some facilities, the property generally meets guests’ expectations for a pleasant and uncomplicated stay.
Cleanliness is a standout feature, and while there are isolated instances where it could be improved, the overall standard remains high, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The staff at Watercress Barns receive consistent praise for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring that guests feel well cared for throughout their stay. The hosts, particularly Paul, are noted for being accommodating and supportive, enhancing the overall experience with their exceptional service.
The beds are generally regarded as comfortable, with many guests commenting on the restful sleep they enjoyed. However, some mixed reviews highlight variations in bed comfort, particularly concerning the sofa beds. For those seeking affordability, Watercress Barns offers excellent value for money, despite needing some updates to certain fixtures.
Additionally, the property is notably dog-friendly, offering a secure doggy garden and direct access to Nature walks, making it an excellent choice for guests traveling with pets. Families, too, find the setting enjoyable, with opportunities to interact with local wildlife. Despite some minor areas for improvement, Watercress Barns presents a charming and inviting option for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the countryside, whether traveling alone, with family, or with pets.
Summary of reviews related to the 'Accessible' category
Holiday Inn Sittingbourne, an IHG Hotel, offers a convenient location, being a mere 10-minute walk from the station and close to the town center and main attractions. This makes the hotel an excellent choice for weddings and family stays. Rooms designed for wheelchair accessibility are available with thoughtful details such as placement near emergency fire escapes, which can be crucial for guests unable to use key card access through the reception.
Parking is generally plentiful and easily accessible. However, there have been issues with disabled parking spaces being used by non-disabled individuals and some guests faced difficulties with parking.
The hotel does face some notable challenges in terms of accessibility and maintenance. There have been multiple reports of accessibility issues, such as elevators being out of order and accessible powered sockets needing upgrades. The hotel's general state of repair has also been highlighted, including poorly fitted access doors and stained carpets. Despite these drawbacks, the location and family-friendly amenities make it a viable option for many travelers.
Summary of reviews related to the 'Accessible' category
Queen Phillippa offers an accessible and comfortable stay, particularly catering well to guests with mobility issues. The hotel's location is easy to access and well maintained, providing a pleasant environment by the sea with green areas. The management staff appear dedicated and responsive, often going above and beyond to accommodate guests' specific needs, such as moving rooms to better suit individual requirements. The presence of a dedicated parking area further enhances its convenience. While most facilities are suitable, it's noted that the toilet area may present challenges for larger individuals or those with significant mobility limitations. Overall, Queen Phillippa is a highly recommended, accessible option with a welcoming atmosphere.
This bungalow is explicitly noted as 'Accessible SEND Medway', indicating its suitability for guests with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. It also offers wheelchair accessibility and facilities for disabled guests, including a balcony and terrace.
*Additional taxes or fees may apply. Please check the final price before completing your booking.Showing 1-11 out of 11 hotels in and around Sittingbourne