The Morritt Hotel

The hotel is widely recognized for its historic charm and beautifully maintained gardens, offering a picturesque and tranquil escape. Guests frequently commend the exceptional friendliness of the staff and the high quality of the food served across its dining venues. A notable feature is the hotel's dog-friendly policy, which is highly appreciated by pet owners. While many guests enjoy the traditional ambiance, a recurring theme in reviews highlights that some rooms are dated and could benefit from refurbishment. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a relaxing retreat, dog owners traveling with their pets, and stopover travelers due to its convenient location for longer journeys. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to confirm the operational status of all spa facilities in advance and to consider requesting a room away from the main road or kitchen areas for a quieter experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, with the adjacent Garage Spa being a significant draw for many guests. This spa features several outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, sauna, relaxation rooms, and a mud rasul, providing various options for unwinding. While some guests found the spa impressive and relaxing, others noted occasional issues such as non-functioning steam rooms or cold hot tubs, and some felt that certain previous amenities had been removed. The hotel's beautiful gardens are consistently praised as a peaceful and well-kept area for relaxation. The Dickens Bar, known for its painted mural walls and cozy atmosphere, is a popular spot for drinks and features real ales. Ample parking is available, and an EV charger is a convenient addition, though only one is present. Wi-Fi is generally available, but some guests experienced intermittent connectivity. It is important to note that the hotel does not have a lift, which may be a consideration for some visitors.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed among guests. Many describe their rooms as clean, spacious, and comfortable, with some highlighting large rooms and comfortable beds that ensure a restful night's sleep. However, a significant number of reviews mention that rooms can appear dated or "tired," with some reporting issues such as mould on walls or in bathrooms, stains on carpets, and general dustiness. Some guests found their rooms to be cold, with heating systems not always functioning optimally, sometimes requiring portable heaters. Bathrooms receive varied comments; while some appreciate their size and features like deep baths and good showers, others note them as dated, poorly maintained, or lacking proper amenities like replenished toiletries. Noise levels are also a concern for some, with reports of thin walls, creaky floorboards, and disturbances from kitchen operations or other guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience generally receives high praise, with many guests commending the food quality as excellent, delicious, and superb. The breakfast is a particular highlight, often described as very good with a choice of buffet items and freshly cooked breakfast options, including well-prepared eggs and sausages. Most guests found the restaurant food to be of high quality, with dishes like belly pork and lamb receiving specific commendation, though some noted that the menu could be limited or repetitive for longer stays. Bar meals are also popular, often seen as good value and offering a satisfying alternative to the main restaurant. While many enjoyed their meals, some reviews mentioned instances of food being overcooked, cold, or not matching menu descriptions, particularly concerning larger event catering. Afternoon tea also garners mixed reviews, with some finding it pleasant while others were disappointed by the selection, freshness, or presentation of items.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, being very conveniently situated just off the A66, making it an ideal stopover point for journeys to or from Scotland and the Lake District. Guests appreciate its quiet, rural setting amidst beautiful scenery and close to attractions like Barnard Castle. The hotel offers ample parking, which is a significant convenience for travelers arriving by car. While the location is generally peaceful, some guests in rooms facing the main road reported hearing traffic noise. Accessibility within the hotel itself receives some mixed comments; while staff are noted for accommodating requests for accessible rooms, the absence of a lift means guests with mobility issues might find navigating upper floors challenging. The hotel's surroundings also offer pleasant walks, including a dedicated dog-friendly field, enhancing its appeal for pet owners.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, frequently described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, attentive, and efficient. Guests often highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, from quick check-in processes to assisting with luggage and resolving issues promptly. Many reviews commend individual staff members for their warm demeanor and professional service in both the dining areas and at reception. The pet-friendly service is particularly noted, with staff making efforts to accommodate furry companions. While the majority of interactions are positive, a few guests experienced slower service, particularly during busy breakfast periods, or felt that some staff lacked engagement. However, the overall sentiment is that the staff are a significant asset, contributing greatly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere and guest satisfaction, especially in event coordination.

Additional Information
Beyond the primary categories, several important details contribute to the guest experience. The hotel, while possessing significant historic charm and a traditional ambiance, is frequently noted for its general maintenance needs, with many areas appearing tired or dated. Guests often mention issues such as peeling paint, worn carpets, and minor structural imperfections that suggest a need for refurbishment. Despite these observations, many guests still perceive the hotel as offering good value for money, especially when booking deals. It is worth noting that mobile signal can be limited in the area, though Wi-Fi is available to help guests stay connected. The hotel is also a popular venue for various events, including weddings and Christmas parties, which can sometimes impact the general atmosphere or noise levels for other guests.