Fieldways

The hotel is a beautiful building with significant historic character, often described as a charming old manor house that offers a unique and distinctive experience. Its ambiance is particularly appealing to leisure travelers and sightseers looking to explore nearby attractions like Bath and Longleat Safari Park. Pet owners also find it highly accommodating due to its welcoming policy for animals, while families and couples seeking a value-for-money stay in a characterful setting appreciate its charm. While many guests are drawn to its historical allure and perceived value, a consistent theme is the property's clear need for modernization and upkeep. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to manage expectations regarding contemporary amenities and to confirm the operational status of specific facilities, such as the swimming pool, prior to your arrival. Bringing personal toiletries and extra lighting for reading is also recommended.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's swimming pool is a frequently discussed amenity, though most guests express disappointment as it is often closed for repairs or maintenance, sometimes without prior notification. When operational, some find the pool cold or not as clean as expected, with the jacuzzi and sauna also commonly reported as being out of order. The gym facilities receive mixed feedback; while some guests find them adequately equipped for a hotel gym, others note they are outdated or have limited operating hours. Wi-Fi connectivity is a notable concern, with many guests reporting poor or non-existent signal in their rooms, impacting their ability to stay connected. Ample parking is consistently available and appreciated by guests. The absence of an operational bar or evening restaurant is a common point of feedback, and the reception area itself is sometimes described as unwelcoming or unstaffed, requiring guests to seek assistance. The grounds are generally seen as lovely and spacious, offering a pleasant outdoor environment.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Many guests describe the rooms as spacious but frequently note they are dated and in need of significant refurbishment, with common issues including peeling wallpaper, cracked tiles, broken cupboards, and insufficient electrical outlets. Some rooms are reported as cold due to heating problems, occasionally requiring supplemental heaters. Feedback on cleanliness is highly mixed; while some guests find rooms clean and tidy, others report issues such as dust, cobwebs, and mould in bathrooms, with a few extreme cases mentioning bedbugs. Bed comfort also varies, with some guests praising comfortable beds and soft towels, while others find mattresses too hard or too soft, and pillows inadequate. Noise levels can be a concern, with reports of sounds from other guests, noisy plumbing, loud extractor fans, and even fire alarms causing disturbances. Bathrooms are often described as needing updating, with issues like mould, leaking fixtures, and inconsistent hot water temperature.

Dining & Food Quality
The cooked breakfast generally receives high praise for its quality, taste, and being freshly prepared, with many guests particularly enjoying the traditional full English breakfast. While the cooked options are well-regarded, the breakfast variety for continental items like cereals, fruit, and bread is often described as limited. However, the overall breakfast experience can be inconsistent; some guests report delays in service, issues with food temperature (e.g., cold items), or problems with basic provisions like clean tables, sauces, or gluten-free options. The dining room itself is often appreciated for its historical character and ambiance, though some find it cold or cramped. A few guests noted that the hotel does not offer evening meals or a full-service restaurant, which can be a drawback for those seeking on-site dining beyond breakfast.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is widely praised for its convenience, offering easy access to nearby towns like Trowbridge and popular attractions such as Bath and Longleat Safari Park. Guests appreciate its quiet setting while still being within a short drive or walk to local amenities, including pubs and restaurants. Ample parking is available on-site, adding to guest convenience. However, accessibility can be a challenge, particularly for guests with mobility issues, due to the presence of multiple staircases and the absence of a lift. The hotel's night entrance can also be difficult to locate and navigate in the dark, with some guests reporting poor lighting and signage. Despite its convenient proximity to attractions, some guests note that the immediate surrounding area lacks vibrant activity, making it more suitable for those with their own transportation.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and welcoming demeanor, with many guests highlighting their genuine efforts to ensure a pleasant stay. Their attentiveness and willingness to go "above and beyond" are frequently mentioned, contributing significantly to positive guest experiences. The check-in process is generally described as easy, though some guests report initial difficulties finding staff or navigating the reception area. A recurring concern is the limited staff presence, particularly after 8 PM and during early morning hours, which can lead to issues with assistance or check-out. While overall feedback is positive, a few isolated incidents of rude or unprofessional conduct from specific individuals have been reported, particularly concerning communication about complaints or service delays.

Additional Information
Many guests highlight the hotel's value for money, especially considering its historical setting and the inclusion of breakfast. The pet-friendly policy is a significant bonus for guests traveling with animals, with specific rooms and outdoor areas accommodating pets. The hotel's historical charm and unique character, stemming from its origins as an old manor house, are frequently cited as a reason for choosing to stay, despite its acknowledged need for modernization. A consistent theme across reviews is the property's urgent need for significant investment and upkeep to address its dated appearance and various maintenance issues, which many believe would unlock its full potential. Some guests express frustration over a lack of communication regarding facility closures or other changes, impacting their expectations. The hotel operates more like a bed and breakfast, with limited on-site services outside of breakfast hours.