The Wood Norton had been open less than two weeks when we stayed there. We needed a night in that area and it offered a dinner, bed and breakfast break for £119 per room which seemed good value for a 4* hotel. We were slightly apprehensive that it might be disorganised so soon after opening but our fears were completely unfounded. Everything went very smoothly and the staff could not have been more welcoming or helpful.
The house stands in its own large sloping grounds about 100 yards from the main road. You can park in front of reception to unload but as we only had the one case we drove straight to the car park and came down the slope to reception in the main building. We were greeted in a friendly manner, asked what time we would like dinner, and told we could have a complimentary glass of fizz in the bar before our meal.
Our room was in what I assume was originally the stable block – up a slope and through a courtyard. There was no lift in this building so I would suggest if you are disabled you request a room in the main building (where there is a lift) or on the ground floor if in one of the other buildings. Our room was of a reasonable size with a very comfortable bed. Our only, minor, complaint was that the lighting in the bedroom was not really bright enough for reading. The bathroom was excellent with separate shower and bath, big fluffy towels and plenty of hot water and good toiletries.
We went over to the main building for dinner – you would need an umbrella if it was raining as the main building is a 3-4 minute walk away. The bar was relaxed, country house, style and we were served our complimentary drinks and canapés whilst we looked at the menu. Our included meal had three options for each of the three courses. There was also an à la carte menu which we did not look at as the standard menu was very good with meat, fish and vegetarian options. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, in a lovely room, with excellent friendly service; coffee and petits fours were also included after the meal.
After an excellent night’s sleep we went back to the restaurant for breakfast. This consists of a table of fruit, cereal, juices etc from which we helped ourselves. The “full English with variations” was ordered from the menu and cooked to order. All very good with local bacon and sausages.
We arranged a late checkout – no problem – as we had a lunch time appointment and wandered round the grounds. These are currently being landscaped, a fountain is in front of the main building and there will be a rose garden, beds full of lilies and peonies and a wilder planting between the house and the car park. Masses of bulbs are promised for spring.
We shall definitely return as the food and service were great and we would love to see the gardens in full bloom and to visit some of the stately homes in the area.
