Hand and Spear

I was surprised to find the hotel really as near to the train station as I had expected – it all felt wonderfully safe for me as a single traveller. The staff were extremely friendly without exception, everyone always had a smile for me and was full of kindness and warm-hearted humour. The room was spacious and bright, and equipped with lots of very tasty tea and an honesty bar with lots of lovely bits and pieces for the occasional sweet or savoury nibble. Even the little booklet with information about the hotel and things to see and do in the area was fun to read. The hotel is full of character, some places modern, some as if time had stood still and you were transported to cosier times. The staircase was wonderfully creaky and comfortably carpeted, the wallpaper rich, and the rooms easy to get to and safe. The curtains really darkened the room 100%, and the bed was equipped with plenty of cushions – great for reading in bed, sleeping and waking up relaxed! When I opened the curtains, the sunlight poured through the large window wall, and it was all just heavenly. The breakfast times were generous, from very early until 11 o’clock. The choice was wide, and I thoroughly enjoyed everything at my own table, with plenty of space to start the day at my own pace. Dinner in the pub was very tasty and plentiful, the prices all reasonable for both food and drinks, and I was welcomed very warmly. The pub was always well visited in the evenings and full of laughter and conversation, which I enjoyed from my single table. I always found just the right amount of entertainment or quiet, whatever I wished for. Help, if needed, was always near, and there was always a good, lighthearted spirit to feel throughout. This hotel isn’t for those who expect flawless polish or shiny perfection, but for those who love a place with soul. I would highly recommend this warm-hearted hotel. Was genuinely a bit sad I had to go.

An excellent overnight stay at the Hand and Spear. The welcome was warm and friendly, the room was spacious and tastefully presented, everywhere was clean and fresh. The bar area is divided into areas representing the original use of the original house which gives it interest and character. The Sunday dinner was absolutely yummy and just what we wanted.

We had a very relaxing and enjoyable stay for two nights. Comfortable and attractive room, great pub food which we were able to enjoy in the garden and superb breakfast at the very respectable time of 11.00 ! The staff were very friendly, helpful and attentive.

I don’t like leaving negative reviews so I will start by saying that the food we had, evening meal and breakfast, was absolutely first class. The location for our trip was also great. Staff were very helpful and pleasant. Now for the bad bits. Rooms are definitely not boutique and are tired. Rooms are nothing like the pictures portray. There were crisps on carpet, everywhere was full of dust, shower tray was filthy and shower seal needed a good bleaching. Front of toilet pan was dirty. There were coffee pods in the machine from previous guests. Room was poorly lit and bathroom was even worse. There was a strong smell of sewerage in bathroom and I didn’t hear a fan working at all. The room felt grubby but the sheets and towels were very clean. I would not recommend staying here. I expected far more for the money we paid.

Second visit after a good first one a couple of years back...overall ok...staff pleasant and engaging but ...food was very average and breakfast pretty poor ..got the impression that because so few overnight guests were in that no real effort had been made. Room ok...clean but shower area needs attention ...new sealant etc and the place overall needs a tidy up...and a bit of investment..not what I'd call a smart pub and we won't return.