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Summary of reviewsShillingford Bridge Hotel, situated along the scenic banks of the River Thames, boasts a serene and picturesque location that captivates guests, providing stunning vistas and tranquil nature. As a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Oxford and Wallingford, the hotel’s idyllic riverside setting enhances the overall guest experience with its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Guests appreciate the spacious, comfortable and newly refurbished rooms, often highlighted for their cleanliness and modern amenities. Many rooms offer breathtaking river views, contributing to a restful stay with large, comfortable beds that consistently receive positive remarks. Despite some dated decor in certain areas, the general room experience is overwhelmingly positive.
Dining experiences at the hotel receive mixed but largely favorable reviews. Breakfast is praised for its variety and quality with many enjoying freshly made-to-order options. Evening meals are commended for their taste and presentation with a notable focus on freshness and value. Although some find the dining cost slightly high and desire more vegetarian options, the overall dining experience significantly enriches guests' stays.
The hotel staff are frequently lauded for their friendliness and professionalism. They are described as attentive and accommodating, adding a personal touch to the overall hospitality experience. From reception to the restaurant, the team often goes the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.
While the cleanliness of individual rooms is praised, the common areas need improvement, often described as tired and in need of updating. Guests note that the hotel's overall decor would benefit from a refresh to meet expectations fully.
Free WiFi is available, but the connectivity can be inconsistent, leading to mixed reviews about its reliability. Some guests find the connection strong and reliable, while others encounter issues with signal strength and coverage.
Parking is ample and mostly convenient with free on-site options readily available. However, during busy periods, parking can become limited, though the overall sentiment remains positive.
Family and pet-friendly offerings make the hotel an appealing choice for those traveling with loved ones or pets. The spacious family rooms and accommodating services ensure a comfortable stay for all members of the family, including four-legged ones.
Overall, Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a three-star experience characterized by good value, excellent service and a stunning location. While some areas need updating, the hotel's setting and amenities generally meet guest expectations, making it a recommended choice for those seeking tranquility and convenience along the River Thames. Show more
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Categories
Hotel for Honeymoon
This hotel offers riverside views, comfortable rooms, and a restaurant. Its scenic location and relaxing atmosphere provide a romantic setting for a honeymoon.
Family Friendly Hotel
Located near the river, offering scenic views and opportunities for family walks. The hotel provides a relaxing environment and is suitable for families seeking a peaceful retreat.
3-Star Hotel
Located in Shillingford, near Wallingford, this hotel offers a pleasant stay with scenic views. It provides a comfortable and reliable experience for guests seeking relaxation.
Dog Friendly Hotel
Room Types
Standard Single RoomThis comfortable room features a TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a private bathroom with hairdryer.
Standard Double or TwinThis comfortable room features a TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a private bathroom with hairdryer.
Riverview Double or TwinFeaturing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The double room features a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, a flat-screen TV, as well as river views. The unit has 1 bed.
Riverview Single RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this single room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The single room features a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, a flat-screen TV, as well as river views. The unit has 1 bed.
The SnugProviding free toiletries, this single room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The single room provides a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, heating, as well as a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 1 bed.
Riverview StudioThe studio has a private bathroom, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a seating area with a flat-screen TV. The studio features a wardrobe, a sofa, a carpeted floor, a TV, as well as river views. The unit has 1 bed.
Riverview SuiteOffering free toiletries, this suite includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The suite offers a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, a flat-screen TV, as well as river views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Large Double or Twin RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this twin/double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The twin/double room features a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, heating and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.2
Good
Location
Nestled along the scenic banks of the River Thames, the Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a beautiful and serene location that consistently garners praise from its guests. This idyllic spot is perfect for both work and leisure, surrounded by tranquil nature and picturesque river views. The hotel's riverside setting provides stunning vistas that are especially appreciated by those enjoying riverside walks or traveling with pets.
Guests highlight the hotel's proximity to key locations such as Oxford and Wallingford, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions, universities and picturesque villages. Whether you're planning a family gathering, visiting friends or setting out on the Thames Path, this hotel's location caters to all needs with ease.
Many reviews emphasize the beauty of the surroundings, noting the hotel's exceptional situation directly on the river. The scenic river views from the rooms add to the charm, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere that enhances the overall guest experience.
Despite some mentions of dated accommodation and the occasional inconvenience, the spectacular location remains the hotel's biggest selling point. For those seeking a tranquil escape with easy access to nature and nearby destinations, the Shillingford Bridge Hotel's setting is truly unparalleled.
Breakfast
The breakfast offerings at Shillingford Bridge Hotel receive a mix of reviews, but many guests speak positively about their morning meals. A significant number of reviewers highlight the excellent quality, describing the breakfast as very good, delicious, lovely and even superb. There is praise for the variety available, including a buffet with both hot and cold options, plenty of choices for gluten-free guests and a freshly made-to-order English breakfast. Some noted specific items like amazing sausages and tasty cooked options.
Several guests appreciated the hearty and plentiful nature of the breakfast, which provided a fantastic start to the day. Highlights also include efficient service with hot food delivered quickly and polite breakfast staff, enhancing the dining experience.
However, not all feedback is glowing. A few guests experienced slower service, occasional shortages of items like plates, milk or butter and issues such as overcooked eggs or lukewarm food. Despite these drawbacks, the overall impression remains that the Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a satisfying and varied breakfast experience with ample options to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
Dinner
Nestled along picturesque surroundings, Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a range of dining experiences that have resonated positively with many guests. The evening meals consistently earn high praise, described as excellent, exceptional and delicious. The food quality is notable with numerous comments on how it is freshly cooked and value for money. Guests have enjoyed a variety of options including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, although some felt there could be even more choices, especially for vegetarians.
The dinner service, although at times chaotic, typically features dishes that are superb, first-class and fantastic. Popular sentiments reflect a high satisfaction with taste and presentation, often deeming the meals as very good or even brilliant. Highlights include freshly prepared foods and a variety that ensures a satisfying dining experience. Meals like roasts and bar selections have also been well received.
However, there are mixed reviews about the cost with some diners finding the restaurant expensive or overpriced. A few guests encountered issues such as poorly prepared food and limited menu options, which were unimpressive to those expecting more for the price. Vegetarian offerings, in particular, were noted as needing expansion.
Despite these occasional drawbacks, many visitors rated their food and service experiences highly, making Shillingford Bridge Hotel a recommended spot for dining while appreciating its beautiful location. Overall, the dining experience is portrayed as delicious and enjoyable, significantly enriching the stay at the hotel.
Rooms
The Shillingford Bridge Hotel has garnered positive remarks for its rooms, which are often described as spacious, comfortable and newly refurbished. Guests frequently mention the large size of the rooms and bathrooms, praising the modern amenities and tasteful decor. Many rooms offer stunning views of the River Thames, adding to the appeal. Cleanliness is consistently highlighted with rooms being noted as clean, tidy and welcoming.
While some rooms are newly renovated with bright and modern designs, there is room for improvement in certain areas. A few guests noted issues like small sizes, dated decor and occasional maintenance needs. However, the overwhelming sentiment is that the refurbished rooms are delightful and meet expectations.
The beds are often described as large and comfortable, contributing to a restful stay. Guests appreciate the efforts to maintain a cozy and warm atmosphere, especially in the refurbished rooms with excellent views. Some rooms in the annex or overlooking less desirable areas may need additional attention, but the overall experience remains favorable.
In conclusion, the Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a mix of well-appointed, spacious and clean rooms, particularly excelling in those that have been recently refurbished. The scenic river views and comfortable accommodations ensure a pleasant stay, even though some parts of the hotel might benefit from further updates.
Beds
Many guests of the Shillingford Bridge Hotel praised the beds, often describing them as very nice, comfortable and even super comfy. Large beds, including king-sized ones, were a recurring highlight with several reviews noting spacious and clean bedding. Positive comments were frequent about comfortable beds with some guests particularly enjoying the surprise of a four-poster bed. Cleanliness of bed linen was also frequently appreciated.
However, some guests experienced issues, mentioning beds that felt old, creaky or too soft for their preference. The use of single beds, sometimes described as narrow or firm, was also noted. There were complaints about rooms being hot and the occasional discomfort from beds pushed together without a proper mattress topper. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the predominant sentiment was that the beds contributed to a comfortable stay at the hotel.
Cleanliness
Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a dichotomy in terms of cleanliness, drawing mixed reactions from guests. Rooms generally receive high marks for being clean and comfortable with several guests praising them as spotless, very clean and tidy. Bathrooms, in particular, have been highlighted for their cleanliness, though there are occasional mentions that they need more attention. Newly refurbished rooms also get positive feedback for their fresh and well-maintained condition.
However, the common areas of the hotel tell a different story. Corridors, stairways and other shared spaces are often described as tired and in need of updating. Carpets throughout these areas are frequently mentioned as threadbare, dirty and held together by black tape. The hotel’s general areas and public restrooms have also been criticized for lacking cleanliness and maintenance with specific mentions of dirty carpets, walls and windows.
In summary, while the individual rooms at Shillingford Bridge Hotel are generally clean and inviting, the common areas and overall décor of the hotel seem to be in need of significant improvement to meet guest expectations for cleanliness and upkeep.
Staff
The Shillingford Bridge Hotel receives high praise for its staff, who are consistently described as friendly, welcoming and accommodating. Many guests highlight the exceptional and efficient nature of the team, from the reception and bistro to the bar and restaurant areas. Words like helpful, courteous and attentive frequently appear, emphasizing the team's dedication to providing a positive guest experience. The reception staff, in particular, receive numerous commendations for their organization and warm hospitality.
However, some comments note specific shortcomings. The breakfast staff were criticized for being inflexible and occasionally disorganized, while a few younger male staff members were mentioned for their lack of customer service skills. Despite these few critiques, the overwhelming sentiment remains favorable, appreciating the staff's ability to stay pleasant and professional even during challenging situations.
Overall, the hotel's staff are seen as a significant asset, often going the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests. Their professionalism, combined with a friendly demeanor, leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors.
Wi-Fi
The Shillingford Bridge Hotel presents a mixed bag when it comes to WiFi connectivity. On the positive side, several guests praised the WiFi as good, strong, fast and reliable, which made it a satisfactory experience for some. The presence of free WiFi is another plus, though it seems the experience varies significantly among different areas of the hotel.
The downside, however, is noted by multiple guests who found the WiFi to be nonexistent in their rooms, slow, intermittent or that it kept dropping out. For some, the WiFi was appalling and only worked for a day or was plagued by poor signal areas throughout the hotel.
For those needing a stronger connection, there was the option to pay for better WiFi, though this is not ideal for everyone. Overall, while the WiFi experience can be strong and reliable at times, it seems inconsistent and patchy, showing room for improvement in delivering consistent internet service to all areas and rooms of the hotel.
Parking
Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a variety of parking options that generally satisfy its guests. One of the standout features is the availability of free on-site parking, which multiple reviewers appreciated. The hotel provides ample parking with plenty of spots available outside the venue, making it relatively easy for guests to find a space. Additionally, some guests highlighted the large car park and the convenience of parking directly in front of their rooms.
However, there are mentions of limited parking spaces at times, particularly during busy periods, which can make parking a bit more problematic. A few guests noted the need to pay for parking, although some received refunds from the reception. The organization of the car park could be improved, as suggested by some reviews, but overall, the parking is deemed good, secure and adequate for most guests' needs. The presence of nice views from the parking area adds to the overall pleasant parking experience at the hotel.
Family
Shillingford Bridge Hotel proves to be an appealing destination for families. It is described as a good place for family gatherings, visits and getaways, making it suitable for spending quality time with loved ones. The hotel's family-friendly atmosphere extends to its restaurant and high tea offerings, which are appreciated by family visitors. The family rooms are noted to be large and beautiful, adding to the comfort of a family stay. Additionally, the hotel is both family and dog-friendly, accommodating various family needs. Even the travel cot provided for toddlers is reported to be very comfortable, ensuring a pleasant experience for the youngest guests. Overall, Shillingford Bridge Hotel suits the whole family and is highly recommended for those visiting with local family and friends.
3 Star
The Shillingford Bridge Hotel offers a decent three-star experience, albeit with some noticeable shortcomings in its decor and overall management. The furnishings and the general state of the hotel clearly show their age with numerous areas that could benefit from updating and a fresh coat of paint. Despite its dated appearance, the hotel maintains its three-star rating through core services and amenities.
Guests can expect good value for money, particularly when considering the affordable pricing. Many found the hotel's rates to be reflective of its three-star quality, making it a budget-friendly option. The hotel staff receive praise for their helpfulness and attentiveness, striving to accommodate guest needs even amidst limitations due to awaiting a new manager.
While the rooms and public areas could use some tender loving care, the overall experience at Shillingford Bridge Hotel is deemed satisfactory for those seeking a typical three-star stay. For travelers who prioritize value and service over modern decor, this hotel might just fit the bill.
Dog Friendly
Nestled in a picturesque location, Shillingford Bridge Hotel stands out as a haven for dog owners, offering an array of facilities and services tailored for canine companions. The hotel is praised for its convenience with excellent walking opportunities straight out of the hotel, making it an ideal spot for those who relish outdoor activities with their dogs.
The accommodations, particularly the studio rooms, are described as perfect for guests traveling with dogs, ensuring comfort for both humans and their furry friends. The hotel’s commitment to being dog-friendly is evident with dogs allowed in the bar area for a modest surcharge. This inclusive policy extends to the bar restaurant, where dogs can join their owners for all meals.
The warmth and hospitality towards pets are frequently highlighted. Dogs are not only welcomed but are often treated to special touches, such as sausages at breakfast, which many guests and their pets greatly appreciate. This thoughtful gesture underscores the hotel’s pet-friendly ethos.
Overall, Shillingford Bridge Hotel is recognized as an accommodating and welcoming place for dog owners. The availability of good walks right on the doorstep, combined with the friendly atmosphere and dedicated pet services, makes it a favored choice for those traveling with dogs.
No, Shillingford Bridge Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Shillingford Bridge Hotel.
Yes, Shillingford Bridge Hotel welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Shillingford Bridge Hotel.