Risley Hall, Derbyshire – pet-friendly, country-style luxury
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A hotel which promises to be pet-friendly is always perfect for me and Ruby, my 11 year old pooch. So, how happy was I to find that Risley Hall Hotel in Derbyshire lived up to my requirements for a weekend mini-break with the dog and my partner? (Note the order in which my two loved ones appear!).
Always my top priority, I like to know Ruby will be made welcome and that I can relax without worrying that people will think she's a nuisance. I'm glad to say she was the centre of attention at Risley Hall, a wonderful 11th Century Saxon country house set in 10 acres of private landscaped grounds in the village of Risley.
And you wouldn't think Risley Hall is classified as a three-star property. As part of the Oxford Hotels & Inns group, this country-styled hotel offers a luxurious experience with spacious suites and rooms amid beautiful gardens, plus there is a pool and spa to truly unwind while staying here.
It was a joy to discover that the suite we'd been allocated in the Willoughby Court wing did not cry out 'dog owner's room' also, as often is the case in hotels which allow pets. Our appointed room was as luxurious and stylish as the other suites, with a large en suite bathroom, huge bedroom, lounge and additional toilet. This meant that we could shut the bedroom door on the dog, who snores very loudly, and let her sleep in the lounge away from us.
On the Saturday night, we dined in the Abbey's Restaurant which has been awarded an AA Rosette and we found the service and food to be of a superior standard. I'd highly recommend eating here on a Friday or Saturday, when the menu is imaginative and presentation is impeccable.
However, on the Sunday evening, the menu had changed to a less appealing one, and the waiter said this was because the hotel awaits its delivery on Monday, and Sunday is really just 'whatever is left'. After the previous night's experience, we were disappointed when faced with options like 'prawn cocktail' and 'chicken supreme', and the food was nowhere near as good.
Still, this did not heavily detract from the positive experience that Risley Hall did offer, including the fact that the property is well-located for walking – always important if you do have a dog. Very close by off the main road there are several public footpaths which take you on various walks over the local fields or golf course. And the Hall does have its own gardens for a late night or early morning stroll, too.
Whether you have a dog or not, if you're looking for a weekend break in a warm, friendly and relaxed environment, then Risley Hall Hotel, set into the heart of England, makes an excellent and very reasonably priced choice.
Contact tel: 08444 146570
Cost standard double room: £££
Services spa, swimming pool, fitness equipment, parking, hotel restaurant, hotel bar, pets accepted, room service, internet access, wheelchair accessible, air-conditioning
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