Ettington Park Hotel - Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom 

Spent 2 nights here having found the hotel thru TripAdvisor. As usual found that the reviews just about match my opinions and this one deserved its no.1 rating for the Stratford area. Even using the hotel's own directions it was not that simple to find (but very easy when you know how!). Very glad indeed that we did find it. The location is very pretty and totally peaceful. Lovely old building in beautiful grounds. The staff were very friendly and helpful especially one of the porters for whom nothing was too much trouble. Only meals we had were breakfasts which were good without being exceptional. You could easily spend a few hours wandering around the grounds which is welcomed by the management - wellies and bikes available to borrow by reception. Am sure will stay again and maybe next time take in one of the nightly performances at the RSC in Stratford. You would need a car unless you are happy to take cabs into Stratford (about 20 mins). Would highly recommend Ettington Park.

We arrived at Ettington Park at teatime on Saturday and were made to feel welcome immediately. We were meeting friends as part of a surprise 50th birthday treat and started the break with a delightful cream tea outside on the pretty terrace. The waiter was charming and even brought us homemade cookies whilst we awaited the arrival of our scones and cream. Following a walk around the stunning grounds we went to our rooms which were beautifully decorated and furnished to a very high standard and we relaxed there ( my husband was delighted to have a huge wide screen TV in the room-so he was extremely happy!) We met for champagne in the bar at 9pm and the young lady in the bar was very sweet and attentive. Our dinner was superb, the sallops were perfectly cooked(sometimes an issue!) and tyhe venison that I had as my main was tender and tasty.The chocolate pistachio terrine rouded the meal off beautifully. The combination of excellent food, great wine and disceet but high quality service, ensured that it was a celebration dinner to be remembered. Breakfast was of the same high calibre and we convinced ourselves that we all needed to taste the American pancakes with bacon-absolutely delicious. We departed after another stroll around the grounds and were interested to hear some of the history of the Park from Damion, the charming young chap on duty in reception. Despite being busy preparing for a wedding later in the morning , everybody was charming and made a real effort to make our departure relaxed and unhurried. I would recommend this hotel to anyone who exp[ects high standards of care, service, cuisine and friendliness. Ettington Park will not disappoint.