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Summary of reviewsThe William Cecil is a historic hotel conveniently located off the motorway on the edge of Stamford. Guests appreciate its beautiful building and grounds, ample parking and pet-friendly policy. Its proximity to Burghley House makes it an excellent choice for those attending events such as the Burghley Proms. The combination of a great setting, excellent decor and friendly staff complements the unbeatable location, making The William Cecil an ideal base for exploring Stamford and the Burghley Estate.
The breakfast offerings receive high praise for their quality, variety and presentation with guests frequently describing it as "amazing," "fabulous," and "fantastic." The menu includes a range of options like kippers, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and a traditional full English breakfast, bolstered by fresh fruit salads, homemade jams and mini pastries. Despite occasional mentions of longer waiting times, the overall breakfast experience is overwhelmingly favorable.
Dinner at The William Cecil also garners consistently positive feedback with guests impressed by the quality and presentation of the food. The ambiance of the bar and dining areas enhances the experience. However, some note the menu could be limited and portions on the smaller side. Despite these minor setbacks, the dining experience remains a highlight of the stay.
The hotel's rooms are described as spacious, beautifully decorated and clean, often featuring unique elements like four-poster beds and original fixtures. While some found their accommodations warm and cozy, others noted issues like noise from the main road and room conditions needing refurbishment. The large free parking and efficient check-in process, complemented by helpful staff, add to the positive experience.
Cleanliness is generally well-maintained with many describing the hotel as clean and spotless. However, some areas, particularly bathrooms, received critiques for needing more frequent deep cleaning. The hotel's adherence to Covid-19 protocols reassured guests of their safety during their stay.
The friendly, welcoming and helpful staff are consistently praised by guests. Their accommodating nature and professional service significantly contribute to the positive atmosphere of the hotel. Specific individuals often receive commendations for their outstanding service, enhancing the overall guest experience.
The WiFi service, however, is frequently criticized for its poor and insecure connection, slower speeds and absence of clear instructions for access. Despite this, the hotel receives commendations for its impressive parking facilities with ample and convenient spaces available for guests.
Families find the hotel accommodating with staff ensuring suitable room arrangements and child-friendly amenities. The William Cecil is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for those traveling with children.
The beds are highlighted for their comfort and high-quality linens, contributing to a restful stay. However, some reviews mention less comfortable beds for children and an occasional issue with pillows.
As a four-star hotel, The William Cecil provides very good service and facilities, offering excellent value for money. While some aspects may not fully meet four-star expectations, the hotel's charming atmosphere and friendly service make up for these minor shortcomings.
For business travelers, the hotel provides a convenient and professional environment, although some WiFi issues and lack of business-focused amenities are noted.
Accessibility feedback is mixed. While there are accessible rooms and good general access, the absence of a lift poses challenges for those with disabilities. Despite these limitations, the hotel's beautiful setting and helpful staff provide a generally positive experience.
In summary, The William Cecil offers a charming and historically significant setting with commendable service, delightful dining experiences and comfortable accommodations, making it an attractive choice for visitors to Stamford. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses
Situated a short drive from Burghley Park Golf Club.
Offers access to local golfing opportunities in the Stamford area.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Located in Stamford, this hotel offers a charming and elegant setting. Its well-appointed rooms and fine dining options create a romantic atmosphere for honeymooners.
Dog Friendly Hotel
The William Cecil is listed as a dog-friendly hotel.
Romantic Hotel
A historic property offering a boutique-style stay on the beautiful Burghley Estate in Stamford. Combines elegance with a desirable location.
Hotel with Parking
The hotel provides free private parking on site with 100 spaces available. Electric car charging points are also offered.
EV charging stations
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
This hotel provides two electric vehicle charge points with a maximum capacity of 7 kW.
4-Star Hotel
Located in Stamford, this hotel provides an elegant and comfortable stay. It offers convenient access to the town's attractions. The hotel is valued for its refined atmosphere and excellent service.
Boutique-style Hotel
Family Friendly Hotel
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Room Types
Cozy RoomPlease request a double or twin room at time of booking (subject to availability).
Large RoomElegant rooms with Egyptian cotton bed linen and luxurious aromatic bathroom products.
Medium RoomThis room has an aromatic bathroom products and original and comfortable furnishings.
Please request a double or twin room at time of booking (subject to availability).
Suite with TerraceThis suite features a private terrace, two bathrooms and a seating area.
Guest Reviews
7.9
Good
Location
Nestled conveniently off the motorway, The William Cecil boasts a fantastic location that's repeatedly praised by guests. Situated on the edge of Stamford, this historic hotel offers easy access to the town center with many noting the short and enjoyable walk to downtown shops, restaurants and attractions.
The hotel's proximity to Burghley House is a significant highlight, making it an excellent choice for visitors attending events like the Burghley Proms. Guests appreciate the beautiful building and grounds, often mentioning the attractive courtyard and lovely gardens surrounding the property.
Practical amenities such as ample parking and the hotel's pet-friendly policy add to its appeal, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. The combination of a great setting, excellent decor and friendly staff complements the unbeatable location, making The William Cecil an ideal base for exploring both Stamford and the Burghley Estate.
Breakfast
Guests at The William Cecil were highly impressed with the breakfast offerings, consistently praising its quality, variety and presentation. The phrases like "great breakfast," "very good breakfast," and "delicious breakfast" were frequently mentioned, indicating a high level of satisfaction among diners. Many guests found the breakfast to be exceptional, describing it as amazing, fabulous and fantastic. The use of quality ingredients and freshly cooked meals were highlighted with specific mentions of perfectly cooked eggs, beautifully cooked poached eggs and a tasty English breakfast featuring local produce.
Additionally, the breakfast menu offered a good range of choices, including options like kippers, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, eggs benedict and a traditional full English breakfast. There were also positive remarks about the fresh fruit salads, homemade jams and a nice selection of mini pastries. The setting for breakfast, whether in the conservatory or the main dining area, was also appreciated by guests.
While the vast majority of the reviews were positive, a few guests noted longer waiting times and limited continental options. However, the overall impression of the breakfast experience at The William Cecil was overwhelmingly favorable with many guests keen to return and enjoy the delightful start to their day.
Dinner
Dining at The William Cecil has consistently garnered praise from guests who have enjoyed both dinner and breakfast at the hotel. Reviews repeatedly highlight the excellent quality and superb presentation of the food. Guests often describe their meals as wonderful, superb and amazing, noting that the culinary experience can be comparable to that of high-end establishments like The Ivy.
Visitors appreciate the ability to enjoy their dinners outside on lovely evenings with a fresh and delicious menu adding to the experience. The ambiance of the bar and dining areas is commonly mentioned, further enhancing the overall country-house style vibe. However, some guests do note that the menu could be limited with few options for those who prefer less meat and the portions, although delicious, can be on the smaller side.
While most reviews express satisfaction with the food's quality and presentation, there are occasional mentions of the meals being slightly overpriced. A few guests also pointed out longer wait times for dinner and an inability to secure a table due to reservations being fully booked.
Despite these minor setbacks, the overwhelmingly positive feedback on both the evening meals and the breakfast suggests that dining at The William Cecil is a notable and enjoyable aspect of staying at this charming hotel.
Rooms
The William Cecil is housed in a stunning, historic building adorned with beautiful oak furniture and impressive original features. It's a quintessentially charming location with a lovely ambiance, complete with beautiful gardens and a pretty exterior. The hotel blends traditional elegance with quirky details, offering a range of room experiences.
Many guests found their rooms to be spacious, beautifully decorated and very clean. Words like lovely, beautiful and comfortable frequently surface in descriptions with some rooms boasting unique elements such as four-poster beds, sloping attic ceilings and even personal gardens. The reception area and communal spaces also received positive mentions for their elegance and artistic decorations.
However, feedback on the rooms varied significantly. Some found their accommodations to be warm and cozy with large, comfortable beds and well-maintained bathrooms. Other guests experienced issues such as noise from the main road, small or poorly ventilated bedrooms and older interiors that felt tired or in need of a refresh. Rooms in the attic particularly stood out for their unique charm but also presented practical issues like low ceilings and uneven floors.
Despite these inconsistencies, other aspects such as large free parking and fast, easy check-in processes received favorable comments. Staff helpfulness further added to the pleasant stay of many guests. For those seeking a touch of romantic, old-world charm in a historically significant setting, the William Cecil does deliver, albeit with some considerations regarding room variability.
Beds
In the charming ambiance of 'The William Cecil,' the beds are frequently praised for their comfort. Guests consistently highlight the high quality of the bedding with many noting the crisp, high-quality linens and the sheer comfort of the mattresses. The beds, often described as large and comfortable, provide a welcoming retreat after a long day. However, not all experiences are flawless; a few reviews mentioned that the beds for children were less comfortable and some beds seemed to dip in the middle. Pillows received mixed feedback with some guests finding them too soft or flat. Despite these few drawbacks, the overall verdict underscores a delightful sleep experience with exceptionally comfy and inviting beds, ensuring a restful stay in this hotel.
Cleanliness
The William Cecil in Stamford is noted for its general cleanliness among guests with many describing the hotel as very clean, clean and spotless. Rooms were frequently highlighted as being particularly clean and tidy with some guests even describing them as beautifully clean and very clean. The reception area also received positive feedback for being clean and cozy, contributing to an overall pleasant atmosphere.
However, not all reviews were glowing. Some guests pointed out issues like mould in showers and on bathroom tiles, dust on skirting boards, carpets needing vacuuming and refurbishment and window cleanliness. Specific critiques included dirty bathrooms, mouldy grout and cracked bathroom tiles. Some aspects of cleanliness, such as the need for deep cleaning, were noted as potential areas for improvement.
Despite these occasional shortcomings, the hotel's commitment to cleanliness standards and adherence to Covid-19 protocols received praise, ensuring guests felt safe and well-cared for during their stay. Public areas in particular were mentioned as very clean and comfortable. While there are areas that require more frequent cleaning and maintenance, The William Cecil generally maintains a standard of cleanliness that provides an enjoyable experience for its guests.
Staff
The William Cecil hotel boasts a delightful team of staff who consistently receive high praise from guests. The reviews portray the staff as exceptionally friendly, welcoming and helpful, always willing to go above and beyond to ensure guests have a pleasant stay. Many remarked on the accommodating and polite nature of the staff, often highlighting specific individuals by name for their outstanding service.
Guests appreciated the warm and efficient reception experience, noting the personal touches such as being walked to their rooms and having key amenities pointed out. The restaurant and bar staff were equally commended for their attentiveness and professionalism, making every dining experience enjoyable.
The team at The William Cecil is described as consistently professional and efficient, maintaining a high level of courtesy and warmth. They are well-organized with many guests noting the quick check-in process and knowledgeable service. The staff's attentiveness extends to special needs, such as dietary restrictions which were handled with great care and even making a fuss over guests' pets.
Despite occasional comments about staff being busy with other guests, the overwhelming consensus is that the staff are a significant asset to the hotel, creating a welcoming and accommodating atmosphere. The positive impact of their cheerful and helpful demeanor is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience at The William Cecil.
Wi-Fi
The reviews for 'The William Cecil' highlight some common issues with the hotel's WiFi service. Guests have frequently mentioned that the WiFi tends to be poor and insecure with slower internet speeds and intermittent signal fluctuations. Additionally, there have been complaints about the absence of WiFi codes and passwords in the room information. The lack of USB charging points has also been noted as an inconvenience. While the accommodation and services might have other redeeming qualities, reliable internet access appears to be an area needing improvement.
Parking
The William Cecil boasts an impressive and well-regarded parking facility with travelers consistently praising its large, well-maintained car park. Guests appreciate the ample parking available, which includes a roomy, private car park at the rear of the property. The convenience of easy and free parking adds to the overall positive experience, ensuring residents have plenty of space for their vehicles. The parking options are not only abundant but also considered essential by many visitors. Overall, the hotel's parking is highlighted as excellent and highly accommodating.
Family
The William Cecil has consistently been praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a suitable choice for those traveling with children. Guests appreciated the accommodating staff who ensured they had the best rooms for their needs, particularly when traveling with a baby or young child. The hotel was described as feeling like part of the family, which added to the overall welcoming experience. Many guests noted the availability of good family rooms with some specifically mentioning the spaciousness of these accommodations. The hotel was highlighted as a good option for family stays and gatherings, cementing its reputation as a reliable family hotel. Whether for a casual family trip or a special event like a wedding, The William Cecil was recognized for its child-friendly amenities and environment.
4 Star
The William Cecil has been consistently praised for providing very good service and facilities befitting a four-star hotel. Guests frequently highlight the excellent value for money, noting it as good value for a four-star establishment. The hotel's charming atmosphere and beautiful period furniture contribute to its great historic allure. Visitors often commend the friendly and always excellent service provided by the staff. Despite receiving feedback about certain aspects not meeting the four-star expectation, the overall impression remains that The William Cecil offers a delightful stay with commendable service.
Business
The William Cecil boasts a convenient and comfortable environment suited for short business trips. Guests highlight its good wifi and a professional atmosphere, making it a favorable choice for work visits. The reception area is noted as an effective space for work and the overall impression is that of a good business hotel. Its ease of access to business centers adds to its appeal. However, some guests have pointed out that the WiFi can have occasional issues and there is a lack of extra facilities catering specifically to business travelers. Early breakfast options on Sunday are appreciated by those with tight schedules. The hotel provides a comfortable and professional setting for business needs, despite some areas for improvement in WiFi reliability and additional business-focused amenities.
Accessible
The William Cecil has received mixed feedback regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. The property benefits from good access for all, including the availability of accessible rooms and helpful assistance with access. Visitors also noted the hotel's beautiful setting and the convenience of getting to the hotel from the small wooded area at the back of the property.
However, several challenges were highlighted. There is no lift available in the hotel, which makes it less suitable for guests who rely on wheelchair access or for elderly visitors who may find stairs challenging. Although some accessible rooms are provided, the absence of walk-in showers posed difficulties and certain bath setups were not ideal for older travelers. Additionally, access to electrical sockets for charging devices could be a bit challenging.
Overall, while The William Cecil offers some accessible features amidst its historical charm, there are areas in need of consideration to better accommodate guests with mobility issues.
Boutique-Style
Situated within the picturesque Burghley Estate, The William Cecil seamlessly blends its 18th-century heritage with contemporary comfort and style. This charming boutique hotel in the historic market town of Stamford retains its original character while offering modern amenities. The property with its quirky and eclectic mix of furniture, exudes the cozy charm of a country-house style hotel. Guests appreciate the unique style and design of the beautiful, listed building, which is both attractive and rich in history. The hotel's prime location further enhances its appeal, ensuring a delightful stay for those who appreciate a blend of old-world charm and boutique comfort.
Luxury
The William Cecil offers an exquisite stay characterized by charm and beauty, creating an exceptional overall experience for guests. The hotel, a beautiful four-star establishment, is adorned with luxury amenities, including a Nespresso machine and homemade biscuits, enhancing its sophisticated ambiance. The bathrooms are equipped with premium products from White Company and Smith’s Luxe line, which further contributes to the luxurious feel of the hotel. With its array of luxury services and features, The William Cecil seamlessly blends elegance with comfort, ensuring a truly lavish experience.
Dog Friendly
The William Cecil stands out as a truly dog-friendly hotel, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to accommodating canine companions. Guests consistently praise the establishment for its welcoming attitude towards dogs with a notable emphasis on making pets feel special. Many reviews highlight the extra mile staff go to, such as making a fuss of their puppies and offering special amenities like dog beds, bags and treats. The hotel is described as not only allowing dogs but being very comfortable and accommodating for them with provisions like dining in the conservatory explicitly available for guests with dogs.
Visitors appreciate the convenience of being able to take long dog walks right from the hotel, ideal for those looking to explore the area with their pets. An additional touch that stands out is the offer of early breakfast options to guests, ensuring they can dine at their convenience, even amid special schedules like running events. The William Cecil seems to excel in creating a warm, inclusive environment for dog owners, earning accolades for being one of the best in welcoming guests traveling with their furry friends.
No, The William Cecil doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The William Cecil.
Yes, The William Cecil welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The William Cecil.