With apologies to Yeovilites, anyone unfortunate enough to need to stay overnight in Yeovil will be relieved to know that there is a ray of sunshine in the gloom of this town. The Keep, a self titled ‘sleep boutique’, is a charming little hotel on South Street; an easy 5 minute walk to the centre of town.
As the description would suggest, this is not a traditional style of hotel, rather a bridge between a hotel and a B&B. This would not normally be my choice of hotel but having to be in Yeovil for a family celebration we found the other hotels booked because of a half marathon being held the following day. The Keep still had a vacancy and the deal was closed.
The Keep is family-run and it is very evident they care about their guests. The hotel and our room were modern and spotless. The room had the usual amenities, including an extremely well-stocked tea and coffee making tray which would put even the best hotels to shame. Free water, several types of teas and coffees, ample milk, cookies and shortbread and two lovely little chocolates. There was also free wifi throughout.
The bathroom had a large walk-in shower (although some other rooms do have baths). The only downside was that the shower gels were attached to the shower in quite a high position and were not easy to reach and there was no shower cap. There were lots of towels, all good quality and very soft.
Breakfast was included in the rate and was a very adequate selection of juices, hot drinks, fruit salads, cold meats, breads and croissants and eggs made to order. For an additional charge a full English was available.
Our room was on street level and there was some noise around 11pm as people left pubs, but it wasn’t for long and nothing some ear plugs didn’t sort out.
One major plus was the hotel, unlike others in the area, had parking (and was gated for extra security). Being family-run, the reception was not manned all hours but was open from 3pm to 8pm, however there was direct dial if anything was needed.
There are family rooms and accessible rooms, so the hotel is suitable for all demographics, although during our stay it was mostly half-marathon runners!
All in all it was a pleasant surprise. Don’t expect anything beyond room and breakfast, but it was excellent value for money and we would stay there if we ever end up in Yeovil again.
