Alston Nenthead Mines Hotels

"This stay is hard to evaluate, because it was uneven. It is an experience staying in a medieval castle. We wandered around the interior to see the rooms, with old paintings, suits of armour, etc., which was interesting. The staff upgraded us from servants quarters to a cottage. The cottage was modernized with a living room and wide screen tv, a bedroom, and bathroom with a tub and walk-in shower. This was all good except for the mouse we saw in the bedroom. We had dinner in the dining room, which was kind of worn down, definitely in need of an upgrade. The food was good but not great, and it was expensive. Service was passable, but simple things like providing a bread plate and a functional candelabra were not done. The meal was fair but this was not as good as it could have been. The staff did upgrade us and helped with the internet and tv, but he was not to be found after our check-in. We never got a tour or got to climb to the top of the tower. I made a mistake in booking by one day, but I recognized and corrected that error on the internet. I asked more than once if they would waive the penalty fee for having to cancel the original registration date and rebook the correct dates, and staff replied to my emails but never responded to my request to waive the fee. In the end we were charged a fairly hefty cancellation fee, which is pretty shabby treatment. It was interesting staying in a castle and the upgrade was great, but the place was just a bit “off.”"

"A very clean and comfortable place. The rooms were very nice and the beds quite comfortable. The bathrooms were up to date and there was plenty of hot water. The pub next door was very hand for a drink and breakfast in the morning. Very friendly staff. "

"Rooms are small but well equipped. A bit hot at first but cooled off at night. "

"The hotel is located in a beautiful area, with stunning views. All of the staff were so friendly and the food was excellent from breakfast through to the evening meal. Our room.was very comfortable. Would definitely recommend this lovely hotel. "

"Definitely worth a visit. We only stayed for one night but we will be back. Staff all unbelievably good. Food exceptional. Very quiet. Really good nights sleep. Highly recommend this hotel. We also did the free history tour of the castle. Do not miss this as it includes a visit to the roof to take in the views."

"The bed is comfy and complement the serenity of the hotel environment. I haven’t tried the food options yet but soon i will "

"Right from the friendly welcome by Tom, my stay was fantastic. I was travelling myself with 2 young children for a family funeral in the area. All the staff were friendly and very good with the children. They were made to feel very welcome by all the staff. We enjoyed a meal in the evening. Good choice for adults and children. We also all enjoyed the buffet breakfast too. "

"Very efficient and friendly staff. Easy check in and check out. Lovely bar. Parking available. Penrith is a great little town."

"Very slick check-in with staff who clearly know their job, are all over the systems and clearly want you to have the best stay possible. Robes and slippers are available to use if visiting the pool or spa. Spacious, quiet room with tea/coffee making facilities and quality toiletries. Choice of pillows and large comfortable bed. We ate in the restaurant both evenings. The food choice was wide, well cooked and presented invitingly. However, the waitress who served us both evenings obviously knew “the drill” of her role, but in reality was far from assisting you to have a positive dining experience. She was going through the motions and really gave the impression that she did not want to be there. She did neither take nor act on criticisms seriously, appearing not to care if you enjoyed your dining experience or not. She chewed , presumably, gum throughout the service and was extremely sullen at all times. This is a very comfortable hotel and gives very good value for money."