Champneys Henlow

I booked and paid for a superior room based on your offer, as I have stayed in this room before. However, I was given a shabby, small room, number 14. It seems rooms 14 and 15 are reserved for guests you no longer wish to see. The explanation from the friendly receptionist was that the hotel was fully booked, which was not true. She tried to make up for the situation with a practical gift from Champneys, but the claustrophobic room and the difficulty of accessing it with a large suitcase after a long journey were unpleasant. The hotel incorrectly judged me based on my attire, even though I intended to use their facial massage services, which were very professional, as were their massages and the products they use. Everything that was old seven years ago is now seven years older and even more worn out. Breakfasts are modest but healthy. They could use more fresh herbs, which they once grew in the spa gardens, now overgrown with weeds. Guests leave their plates and glasses on the lawn, and no one picks them up promptly. The spa lacks organization, except on weekends when older women step in to help, solving problems more quickly and efficiently. I am disappointed because it is not fair to deceive customers regarding room types. While the room lacked nothing and was regularly cleaned, it was next to a smelly toilet, and I was promised a superior room but given a standard one, as indicated on the temporary card received upon arrival. However, I must commend the lady who has diligently worked there for 30 years. It would be nice if she were friendly even when not promoting their services. If improvements are not made to the facilities and surroundings, there is no reason for me to return specially after the room switch and no difference in the price.

Thank you for such a wonderful weekend So peaceful, quiet and calm. Lots of places inside and outside to sit and relax. The gardens and woodland are perfect for a mindful walk or more energetic run All of the staff were amazing. Particular thanks to Lisa, Maddie and Clare from the housekeeping team Chloe and Virginia - great beauty therapists Toby and Jackie in the restaurant Andrew at reception All perfect

We recently stayed at this hotel and had quite a mixed experience. Our first room (Room 5 – a "luxe" room) was uncomfortably hot, with little to no airflow. The windows barely opened and there was no air conditioning. While we were told this was due to the building being listed, there are definitely ways around that: portable air conditioning units, for example, would make a huge difference. The room also felt dated, and the bathroom was disappointing. At one point, the water even stopped working. I woke at 4:30am feeling physically unwell due to the heat and had to move rooms at 5am with the help of the night porter. The second room, in the more modern section of the hotel (though a downgrade), was much better: better bathroom, more comfortable, but still lacked air con. The indoor pool area was also far too hot and stuffy, making it uncomfortable to enjoy. It's clear the hotel needs to rethink ventilation and cooling in multiple areas, especially as summers continue to get hotter. That said, food and drinks were very good, and the massage and spa treatments were excellent. The ducklings in the courtyard were adorable. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout. With some upgrades to guest comfort - particularly around temperature control - this hotel has the potential to be a fantastic stay.