Stonehouse Court Hotel

This historic manor house hotel offers a memorable retreat, distinguished by its beautiful building and lovely grounds that extend to a picturesque canal. It serves as an ideal setting for various guests, including couples seeking a romantic getaway, families attending events, sightseers exploring the Cotswolds, and business travelers needing convenient access to local industrial areas. Guests consistently highlight the attentive staff and the overall comfortable rooms as key positives. While the dining experience receives mixed feedback, the hotel's charm and setting are widely appreciated. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a newly renovated room for optimal comfort, and be aware that as a popular wedding venue, there might be increased activity or noise during peak event times.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's gardens and grounds are a significant draw, offering beautiful spaces for relaxation and direct access to scenic canal walks. Guests appreciate the cozy bar area, often featuring a roaring fire, which provides a comfortable spot for drinks. While some find the Wi-Fi to be inconsistent in certain areas, it is generally available. Parking is ample and free, though some guests note that the gravel surface and lighting could be improved. The hotel also offers an EV charger, though some users have reported issues with its functionality. An interesting eco-friendly policy allows guests to opt out of daily housekeeping in exchange for drinks tokens, a thoughtful initiative that is well-received.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is generally praised, with many guests describing them as spotless and well-maintained. However, room condition varies significantly; some guests enjoyed newly renovated, spacious, and luxurious rooms, while others found their accommodations to be dated, small, or in need of refurbishment, citing issues like peeling wallpaper or scuffed paintwork. Bed comfort also receives mixed reviews, with some finding beds very comfortable and conducive to a restful sleep, while others describe them as too firm or small. Noise levels can be an issue, particularly from creaking floorboards, other guests, or events, though many rooms are noted for being quiet. Bathroom quality is inconsistent, ranging from spacious and well-appointed with walk-in showers and freestanding baths to small, dated, or experiencing issues like low water pressure, dripping showers, or mold. Heating can be temperamental in some rooms, and while amenities like coffee makers and blackout curtains are appreciated, some rooms lack sufficient power outlets or USB charging points. Many rooms offer pleasant views of the gardens or canal.

Dining & Food Quality
Breakfast receives mixed feedback; while many guests praise its excellence, variety, and the option for cooked-to-order items, others describe it as ordinary, cold, or suffering from slow replenishment and limited choices. The overall food quality in the hotel's restaurant is also varied, with some guests enjoying delicious meals, particularly the highly-praised Sunday roast with its tender beef and excellent side dishes like cauliflower cheese. However, other experiences range from disappointing and overpriced to bland, with issues noted for specific dishes like steak or certain bar snacks. Afternoon tea is generally well-regarded for its quality and warm scones, though some guests find it overpriced or the service lacking. The bar is a popular spot for drinks and lighter fare, though some find the prices to be high.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly praised central location, offering a beautiful and scenic setting that serves as an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds. Its proximity to the M5 motorway ensures easy access, yet the grounds provide a tranquil countryside feel. Guests particularly enjoy the direct access to canal walks from the hotel's garden, and the nearby historic church. The hotel is conveniently located for visits to Stroud, Cheltenham, and Gloucester, with public transport options available. Parking is readily available on-site. However, a significant concern for many guests is the hotel's accessibility, due to numerous stairs and the absence of a lift, making it challenging for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage. Rooms can also be a long walk from reception through winding corridors.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, described as friendly staff, helpful staff, and providing attentive service. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, from accommodating special requests to offering warm welcomes. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some guests have experienced slow or uncommunicative service upon arrival. Service speed in dining areas can be inconsistent, with some guests noting long waits for food or drinks, particularly during busy periods or events. The hotel is a popular wedding venue, and the wedding coordination team receives high praise for their professionalism and attentiveness in making special days memorable. Overall, the staff's dedication to guest satisfaction is a recurring theme in reviews.

Additional Information
The hotel is a charming historic building, with parts dating back to the 17th century, offering a unique character that many guests appreciate. It is a very popular wedding venue, and while this is a positive for those attending events, it can sometimes lead to increased noise levels or impact service for other guests. The hotel promotes an eco-friendly policy by offering guests complimentary drinks tokens if they opt out of daily room servicing. Many guests utilize Virgin Experience vouchers for their stays, which are generally well-received, though some feel the experience differs slightly from direct bookings. A recurring issue for some guests has been intermittent hot water issues in their rooms. Furthermore, some guests have reported a lack of clear communication from the hotel regarding booking details or on-site issues, which can lead to frustration.