The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa

Visited for my sister’s special birthday celebration! The staff were amazing, nothing was too much and they were genuinely happy to serve. Food was fantastic - breakfast was a feast and great choice. The room was indulgent in a classic way, think towels, quality linen, big comfy beds fit for a princess! Fresh bottled milk I fridge! The only thing was TV took a while to work out and no instructions! But that not enough to ruin my stay! Will definitely be back!

I had booked a private dining room in November 2024 for my 60 th birthday lunch in September 2025. I emailed MARCLIFFE events last week to confirm time as that had been left open but wasn’t an issue as room was free all day. As I didn’t receive any response I called. To my dismay and disappointment I was told we were now in the restaurant. They have moved a wedding party into the room I had booked and received confirmation so they can have drinks outside. One of the small function suites has been changed to a bedroom and they are making other changes which I didn’t quite follow. If I hadn’t called I’m not sure when I would have found out. When I turned up in September? The person I spoke to is new and didn’t really know or could offer any help until I persisted I talk to a manager. I asked for her to call me back, which she didn’t, I called again and she went off to speak to the deputy manager who was too busy to speak to me direct. We have been offered complimentary drinks and canopies but am so disappointed and annoyed at the lack of communication and that my birthday plans have been changed without any thought or consideration. I am looking at other options now as I don’t feel it will be the same if I do go to MARCLIFFE and don’t think they deserve my business. So the rumours are true the once great MARCLIFFE has gone down hill what a shame.

Best hotel experience I’ve had, great reception and dining staff, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Selection of fresh fruit in the spotless bedroom. Breakfast beyond expectations, wonderful selection and service great. Each member of staff seemed hand picked, good fun and professional. Can’t wait to return.

Our first visit to The Marcliffe for dinner since change of ownership celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary. Delighted to report, absolutely excellent. Lovely welcome, beautiful menu and fabulous wine list. The food was AMAZING!… staff - brilliant. 10/10… Jenna looked after us - wonderful. And absolutely delighted Graham still on the piano, anchoring the prior Marcliffe to today - his soft touch on the keys is beyond compare. Congratulations to the chefs, waiting staff, bar staff snd reception… well done everyone, so much appreciated. Jon & Sue Ruszka

From the moment Matthew and his team welcomed us into the drawing room to the moment we left we were treated to five star service. My younger son had chosen the conservatory restaurant for his birthday dinner and it was a fantastic decision. Our welcome drinks and nibbles were followed by three delicious courses and drinks with Jamie also getting a decorated sweet plate to mark his birthday. I opted for cheese soufflé, cod and crème brûlée and all were exceptional. My husband and elder son confirmed that the Marcliffe still serves the best steaks they have ever eaten. The birthday boy opted for venison which also received the thumbs up. All te staff were polite, attentive and efficient which added that extra element to compliment the delicious food.

I am rather sad to be writing this review of a hotel I've known and admired from the day it was opened some 35 years ago. We arrived 10/15 minutes before the time we'd booked (which was 7.30 pm) and, as expected, were shown to a table in the lounge. It took some considerable time for us to be offered drinks and then a little longer for them to arrive. We then waited an age to be given menus. We declined more drinks and our order was eventually taken and we were shown to our table almost one hour after arriving. I accept that it was busy and food is cooked to order but if the kitchen cannot cope then surely fewer bookings should be taken. We were certainly not late and therefore the kitchen should have had us scheduled in. Over the course of the evening we were served by a variety of staff and twice were brought drinks when none had been ordered. Also, twice, we received apologies for delays. As the restaurant thinned out considerably we were asked if we wanted sweets and replied in the affirmative. However no menus were produced and we had to get the attention of a server and ask again for them. As we had our sweets the only other customers left and we were treated to staff setting tables for breakfast and the chefs, who work at an open kitchen, cleaning and tidying up and eventually leaving - this at little after 10.00 pm. The food was excellent and some of the staff were very engaged and pleasant. However we felt the attitude of one person (supervisor?) in particular, left much to be desired - drink we had not ordered and failure to return with menus.