The Howbeck and The Retreat

We stayed there for 2 nights having seen the web site stating it to be a 5 star accomadation. Whilst there are no major complaints, we were disappointed with the room described as superior. We felt that the room was too small, the bathroom door stuck and was difficult to close and the toilet seat was loose. The bed was uncomfortable and an extension lead was laid at the side of the bed for the bedside light to connect to. Whilst the breakfast was of good quality there was only a half hour window between 8.30 and 9am when it was served and you have to order what you want the night before. Our opinion was that this was an adequate, albeit expensive establishment. Overall we were dissapointed with the quality especiallly as we were there for a birthday celebration.

I booked a twin room for my mother, who is 80 and myself. The hotel did not realise it was a twin room booking. The room was small, not really appropriate for two people like us. Because we hadn't booked dinner 24 hours in advance we had to go out in the rain and find somewhere to eat. Breakfast was served betweent he hours of 08.30 and 09.30. We got to the dining room at 9.20 and someone was already clearing away the breakfast thinks. When we finally got out breakfast it wasn't cooked fully. Overall charging £125 for our stay was disgraceful.

Breakfast was overcooked, shower did not work and staff were abrupt when we complained about the shower not working very effectively and were a little late checking out - The check out was 10.30 in all other hotels I have ever stayed in it is usually midday after all it was a Sunday and it was out weekend break. This is no way a 4 start establishment! We shall not be staying here again.

Very Disappointing. Not good value for money.