Champneys Henlow

I booked and paid for a superior room based on your offer, as I have stayed in this room before. However, I was given a shabby, small room, number 14. It seems rooms 14 and 15 are reserved for guests you no longer wish to see. The explanation from the friendly receptionist was that the hotel was fully booked, which was not true. She tried to make up for the situation with a practical gift from Champneys, but the claustrophobic room and the difficulty of accessing it with a large suitcase after a long journey were unpleasant. The hotel incorrectly judged me based on my attire, even though I intended to use their facial massage services, which were very professional, as were their massages and the products they use. Everything that was old seven years ago is now seven years older and even more worn out. Breakfasts are modest but healthy. They could use more fresh herbs, which they once grew in the spa gardens, now overgrown with weeds. Guests leave their plates and glasses on the lawn, and no one picks them up promptly. The spa lacks organization, except on weekends when older women step in to help, solving problems more quickly and efficiently. I am disappointed because it is not fair to deceive customers regarding room types. While the room lacked nothing and was regularly cleaned, it was next to a smelly toilet, and I was promised a superior room but given a standard one, as indicated on the temporary card received upon arrival. However, I must commend the lady who has diligently worked there for 30 years. It would be nice if she were friendly even when not promoting their services. If improvements are not made to the facilities and surroundings, there is no reason for me to return specially after the room switch and no difference in the price.

Thank you for a great 3 day break. A special thanks to Tigan on reception, Siobhan and Jenny in housekeeping and Jackie in restaurant. They are all a ray of sunshine. We are always pleased to see them, they do an excellent job at Henlow. My daughter and myself have been going for 32 years and it’s always a great pleasure to return. Thanks again from Susan and Angela Gill

I’m here now for a day spa and I’m sorry to say that it was not at all what I was expecting. It all feels a bit dated and shabby. The jacuzzi isn’t hot at all. Too cold for me to sit in it and enjoy it that’s for sure. The hydra pool outside is shut. Nobody advised this. The sauna is literally big enough for 3 people so we’ve not been able to get in there yet. There’s very few seating areas: so much so that we’re just sat in the lounge just off of the changing rooms. It’s too cold to stay in my wet swimwear so I’m now changed back into my clothes, just sat here reading my book. Which quite frankly I could have done at home, and been more comfortable! The ‘breakfast’ if you can call it that, was not breakfast. Everything had run out and there was nobody about topping up. No juices, just water. All the fruit had gone, there were just a couple of yoghurts and croissants. We arrived at 9:30 so maybe we were a bit late? I’ve spent a lot of money, and it’s my husbands 50th birthday, so I wanted something special. This is not that sadly. Definitely won’t be returning to a champneys that’s for sure. You can get a lot more elsewhere for the same money. I would strongly advise against booking.

The classes and PT here are excellent. Really been in the best shape ever, thanks to Jameila who has gradually added to and stretched my programme. And also a lovely environment to train in! Excellent coffee in the coffee house and Toby is brilliant at welcoming everyone.

Andrew on front of house just made our trip!! He is an absolute delight and champneys wouldn’t be the same without him!!!! The facilities are great and do get a time table if you want to join a particular class. You might have to pay for some classes but you’ll have a wonder time whatever you do!