We had been invited to Cricket St Thomas by my Sister-In-Law and her husband on a Warner break. They are regulars but it was our first time. We went with no pre conceptions but were not disappointed in any way. It was the first week of their Chrsitmas countdown and so everywhere was decorated with Christmas Trees and garlands add to that the roaring log fires the ambience was amazing in the old part of the house. It was a huge complex but it had the most amazing family feel about it. Having said that no children are allowed so the age group does tend to be 50+ but the guests are all very relaxed and friendly with one another and the staff are fantastic in the service they offer, friendly and efficient.
The rooms are graded but the standard rooms are far from basic. They have all the usual modern hotel services with a very comfortable bed and were decorated well. I was a little disappointed with the bathroom as it was a little "tired" around the bath and basin.
The restaurant was very well presented and yet again the staff were effiecient and friendly. The food was mixed but ok for mass catering. Breakfast was good but nothing special (my husband ordered eggs benedict and the eggs came out of a packet and the yoke was solid) but the menu for the evening meal was variable and of a much better standard. I wouldn't like to say that this was awful it really wasn't but I couldn't do a review without mentioning it.
The leisure facilities were very good (just being refurbished) again staff were extremely helpful and friendly and the entertainment in the evening was first class.
We are not ones for going on organised holidays but this was far better than we had expected. The daily programme was full and varied and you could do everything or nothing. The grounds were amazing and we went on a guided tour with the deputy head gardener who was very knowledgable and turned an hour and half talk into an informative and light hearted stroll around the estate.
I would end by saying don't be scared to try this kind of holiday, it was one of the most relaxing and enjoyable breaks I've had in a long time.
