Bestwood Lodge

The hotel's historic character as an old hunting lodge, set within beautiful parkland, is its most distinctive feature, offering a unique blend of heritage and natural tranquility. Guests consistently praise the outstanding staff for their helpfulness and attentiveness, contributing significantly to a positive stay. The picturesque location provides a serene escape, ideal for nature lovers and walkers seeking peaceful surroundings. While the food quality, particularly breakfast and bar meals, receives frequent commendation, many guests note that the building, despite its charm, is dated and in need of refurbishment in certain areas. This blend of historic appeal and a need for modernization makes it a unique choice for history enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic retreat, and event attendees, especially those celebrating weddings. To maximize your experience, embrace the hotel's old-world charm and consider its tranquil setting for leisurely strolls.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities that contribute to the guest experience, though some areas show their age. The bar area is frequently highlighted as a beautiful space, featuring old English wood paneling and a grand stone fireplace, providing a cozy atmosphere for drinks and casual dining. Guests appreciate the convenience of ample free parking on site, making arrival and departure straightforward. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests reported it to be intermittent or weak in their rooms, though generally better in public areas like the bar. A notable aspect is the absence of a lift, which can pose a challenge for guests with luggage or mobility concerns, as rooms are spread across multiple floors accessible only by stairs. Some reviews also mentioned the lack of a mini-fridge or a hairdryer in certain rooms, requiring requests from reception.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, often reflecting the hotel's historic nature. Many guests found their rooms to be spacious and equipped with comfortable beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The presence of tea and coffee making facilities with complimentary biscuits and water was also appreciated. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that rooms are dated and in need of refurbishment, with common complaints including peeling wallpaper, worn carpets, and general signs of wear. Issues with heating were reported, with some rooms being cold and radiators not functioning effectively, sometimes requiring additional heaters. Shower pressure was a recurring concern, described as weak or inconsistent, and some bathrooms lacked modern amenities or showed signs of wear. Noise from events or other guests was occasionally mentioned, along with observations of cobwebs or a musty smell in some areas.

Dining & Food Quality
Dining at the hotel generally receives positive remarks, particularly for breakfast and bar offerings. Most guests praise the breakfast variety, noting a plentiful selection of hot and cold options that are well-cooked and presented, often described as delicious and good value. The bar food is also frequently commended for being tasty, filling, and reasonably priced, with good service. However, feedback on the main dinner service is more varied; while some found the evening meals excellent and of high quality, others experienced issues such as lukewarm dishes, dry meats, or inconsistent menu offerings. Some guests found the buffet breakfast unappealing or the coffee tepid, and there were isolated incidents of service issues during breakfast. Despite these occasional inconsistencies, the hotel is noted for accommodating dietary requirements, and the afternoon tea service is often highlighted as a delightful experience with a good selection of treats.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location within Bestwood Park is a significant draw, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying country views. Guests appreciate the ample and free parking available on site, making it convenient for those traveling by car. While situated about a twenty-minute drive from Nottingham city centre, providing a peaceful escape from urban bustle, some guests found this distance to be a drawback, particularly regarding taxi fares. A major point of concern for many is the hotel's accessibility, as there is no lift and rooms can be located far from reception, requiring navigation through multiple long corridors and stairs. This can be particularly challenging for guests with luggage or mobility issues. Despite some minor issues with overgrown vegetation obstructing views from dining room windows, the overall setting is highly valued for its serene environment.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise, often described as the highlight of the guest experience. They are widely commended for being friendly, helpful, attentive, and professional, going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests frequently mention their willingness to accommodate requests, such as opening the bar late, providing extra heaters, or arranging room upgrades for special occasions. The check-in process is generally reported as quick and welcoming, and housekeeping is noted for maintaining clean rooms. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few isolated incidents mention initial unresponsiveness to complaints, perceived inexperience among some staff members, or service being stretched during busy periods like large events. Despite these occasional challenges, the staff's dedication to providing excellent service is a recurring theme, making guests feel valued and well-cared for throughout their visit.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard amenities, the hotel offers several unique aspects that enhance the guest experience. It is a highly popular wedding venue, with many reviews detailing positive experiences regarding event planning, catering, and staff support for special days. The hotel's rich history is a significant feature, with guests often enjoying learning about its past, including its reputation for being haunted, which adds an intriguing element to the stay. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy in its bar area, welcoming guests with dogs. While the building's age contributes to its charm, it also means some areas are undergoing ongoing refurbishment, which guests should be aware of. The hotel's unique character, distinct from modern chain hotels, is often highlighted as a reason for its appeal, offering a refreshing change for those seeking a more traditional and soulful accommodation experience.