Poets House

The hotel is praised for its comfortable beds, stunning rooms, and friendly staff. Guests also appreciate the central location and excellent breakfast. However, no negative comments were found.

My partner booked afternoon tea for us, we had never been to the hotel before. We were greated warmly and shown to our table, the environment was lovely. Drinks were bought promptly followed by our sandwiches and cakes. Everything was delicious, the only small point I would make is the poor quality, jelly jam which didn't match anything else we were served. The service was perfect, friendly professional and attentive, I am looking forward to going back to the hotel.

This was the ideal place for a writing retreat. Residents can sit in the large lounge area as much as they want with little pressure to constantly order food. Similarly, there are about 10 tables outside with umbrellas that appeal in good weather. The staff are very kind and friendly: both a very fine hotel but unpretentious at the same time. Gabriella and Christine, the managers, were both absolutely superb for their service. I also throughly enjoyed the bar and food staff, including Antonia, Silver, Mercedes, Maddox, and Ollie. (Be sure to ask for your mojito to be 'shaken not stirred'.) There are only 22 rooms, so very cosy, and lots of locals stop by for coffee or drinks. I stayed for 10 days, so was delighted to be put in Room 14, with a view of the cathedral right above my desk (after I moved the desk). Ely is a charming city to walk around in, and the cathedral is gorgeous. The Engine House restaurant across the street (ask for Iona) is another good place to sit and eat, as is the Almondry. Afternoon tea at Peacock's down by the river is excellent. Having breakfast at the hotel was quite good, nice variety, and also very handy--highly recommend. Overall, I can't say that the food was wonderful, but it was more than adequate, and everything else was quite wonderful! I sincerely hope I can come again for another writing retreat or, frankly, for any other excuse ;)!