The Hotel Inspector Feedback

 jhf Keith Rodgerson wrote from Bristol on Wed 28 Nov 2007

Ruth was right on all points and I think that providing this forum is a great idea and shows that you're open to suggestions. It can be so difficult when you're immersed in a business to stand back and look afresh. Her input was invaluable. The programme of course is also to be criticised for the incessant narration and repitition which puts me off watching it other than on a recording with fast forward!! I've told them!! Good luck

- Thanks for the comment. We have taken Ruth's comments to heart and welcomed her imput.

 Mr and Mrs Nina and Gerard Basset wrote from Netley Marsh on Wed 28 Nov 2007

We are the owners of the "other" hotel, Hotel TerraVina next door. We would just like to say that it was great fun making the TV programme with Jenny, David and John- they really are charming people who look after their guests in a very warm, friendly manner. They should be highly commended for having the courage to invite and action Ruth's comments; they have been working very had to refurbish the hotel since the programme was filmed way back in the early summer and we are very pleased to have them as our neighbours and enjoy a very good relationship with them. Each hotel happily recomends guests to one another when either is full. From the comments posted on Woodlands website, we are thrilled that so many people enjoyed the show.

- Thank you so much, it is good to have such good neighbours with whom we can work

 Mr David Mockler wrote from Rustington on Mon 26 Nov 2007

My wife and I watched the tv programme last Thursday having already booked for that coming weekend. My immediate reaction was to cancel our reservation, but we were so glad we didn't. We stayed in the suite featured in the programme, and it was great! The sunken bath has been replaced by an all singing all dancing jacuzzi - bath - multi shower, with built in TV ! It was great fun ! We loved the room, the furnishings, the service - particulalry the friendly and attentive waitresses, and the general location. We would whole heartedly recommend your hotel, particularly to people who prefer a friendly relaxed family run hotel, as opposed to those gleaming impersonal monoliths. We'll be back. Thanks.

- It was lovely to see you, thanks for the vote of confidence.

 Mrs C Goodwin wrote from Wales on Sun 25 Nov 2007

Hi there, Well, we are just watching the programme on Sky channel 182 ( Sunday 25th. Nov.) - So, We'll let you know when its done... but, you must feel like its putting your head in the noose with Ruth!

- Yes, that sounds about right

 Miss Allyson McCarthy wrote from Brecon, Powys. on Sun 25 Nov 2007

I love watching the Hotel Inspector as I own a little B&B in Brecon and always looking for new ideas. I think the modernisation of your first room was excellent, personally I think its looks clean and modern and relaxing - well done.

- Thank you, we like it too

 Mrs V Ash wrote from Chester on Sat 24 Nov 2007

Why not replace some of your beloved, seemingly 'romantic' whirlpool baths, with very stylish double rainshowers, walk-in wet-rooms style showers, deep rolltop baths and if any bedrooms have a private courtyard - hottub. Boutique hotels are the way forward, and you can incorporate their very popular facilites into your more traditional setting. In my opinion, bathrooms sell a hotel room more than anything else

- Agreed, we have done just that in the latest room to be refurbished. Thanks for the comment.

 Mrs Sally Snook wrote from Castle Cary, somerset on Sat 24 Nov 2007

I watch Hotel Inspector as often as possible because I run a 4 star B&B, and am always looking for new ideas to please my customers. I have read all the comments in your guest book and agree with many. I am sure that, above all, the programme enthused you all again, as running any hospitality business can be totally exhausting. To my mind you have to 'listen' to the house and not try to make it into something that it isn't. I agree that the refurbishment of Room 1 was too modern, but clean, plain subtle colours and carpets, comfortable beds and white bathroom suites with good showers are a must. Then the room, the view and the wonderful situation, rather than the wallpaper has a chance to be appreciated. Similarly with the restaurant food-good cooking that does not try to be pretentious but savours local produce. I was very disappointed that the website has not been updated with photos of all your rooms-surely this is your main advertising, especially after the show when so many of us will be looking for it? Good luck-especially to Jenny-I do realise that TV editing has to make a story, but I too have had to battle with my husband for all the changes I have made over the years!!

- Thasnk you for taking time to comment and agree with all you say.

 Mr & Mrs S B wrote from South on Fri 23 Nov 2007

We watched the programme and I have to let you know that I thought they portrayed you in a most unkind way. Ruth simply didn't understand what is so good about the hotel as she only thinks about business and money. It's not the bedrooms that make the place (and by the way we prefer a bit of character to a modern look), it is the staff who are so friendly and helpful and the fact that you are obliging (how could Ruth say that was a fault?!). So don't worry about Ruth's comments. She may be a specialist but it is only her opinion. At the end of the day we are the clients and we loved it there, so did our friends. We intend to come back many times.

- How kind, nice to hear we have our fans

 Mr Chris Cox wrote from Godalming on Fri 23 Nov 2007

We watch this programme avidly, as we enjoy staying in Hotels. I thought that Ruth's comments were valid and concur with previous comments that you all seem to be nice people and I am sure would be good hosts and provide an excellent service. The problem is that in this fast moving pace of life you really do need to keep up with modern tastes. Indeed my wife and I were just saying that we had a new bathroom fitted 5 years ago and its aleady dated. Having stayed at the Chewton Glen, Rhinefield Royal Bath and Harbour Heights we are aware of what is available in your area and you really need to bring the decor up to date. I was dismayed however, regarding your comments on the Rosette, we have stayed in lots of Hotels after experiencing a meals in their restaurants and the only reason we went there is because of these accolades. I do hope it all works out for you as you seem to be deserving of it, it also would give us another nice Hotel to experience Best wishes Chris & Sandie Cox

- Thanks for your comments and wishes, it may not be immediately, but I think a Rosette will be achieved

 Mrs Val Lloyd wrote from Herts on Fri 23 Nov 2007

We thought you came over really well & I found myself shouting at the screen (is this as sign of getting old??) when the inspector said that she wanted to criticise you for being too nice!! Since when was that a fault??? It was your unfailing courtesy & helpfulness which made our two New Year stays & our 60th birthday celebration weekend so enjoyable. Please don't change!

- Me, change? never! the hotel will though.

 Mrs Alison Jordan wrote from Newbury, Berkshire on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I really enjoyed the prgogramme. You have a beautiful hotel and in such a beautiful location. I agree with the upgrading the bedrooms but keep to furniture that bigger people can sit on, some of the modern chairs can only cater for thin people, for example, the chairs you have in the dining room are brilliant and as a bigger person I would be able to sit on them. Keep up the good work as it looks a beautiful hotel and location. I would love to stay in the near future.

- Thank you, we love it of course, hope to see you soon

 Ms Carol Harrison wrote from Ireland on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I watched the Hotel Inspector last night and was particulary interested as I originate from the area. I just want to wish you all the very best for the future of your hotel and hope the much needed improvements and publicity from the programme pay off!!

- Many thanks for your comments, as well as bedrooms we have now completed the lounge as well

 Ms June Warren wrote from - on Fri 23 Nov 2007

We spent a lovely break at the hotel in October and enjoyed it so much.The only comment I would like to make about the web site is that I think you should remove the picture of the wallpapered ceiling as we had to check before we booked as it rather put us off. After last nights Hotel Inspector people will check on the pictures. Best wishes to you all. June Warren

- Taken on board, thank you

 Ms Jane - wrote from - on Fri 23 Nov 2007

Having watched the programme I agree entirely the old rooms have to be updated/upgraded. The boutique look was not right for the house, though the bathroom suited. A fresh, airy, relaxed, country air should be nurtured. I like the look of the room shown on your website. Good luck with the rest! Jane

- Thank you

 Mrs Sally Long wrote from Surrey on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I watched the Hotel Inspector with interest last night and have read and agree with many of the comments made on your site since then. I'm sure much of the programme was 'edited TV', and it is hard to listen to critism of your own business, but please embrace much of what Ruth had to say. I am pleased to hear that you are going through a refurbishment, I'd encourage you to get fresh pictures of the other refurbished rooms asap onto your website to capitalise on the publicity you have gained from this programme. I visited the site as a result of the programme and was disappointed not to find more updated pics of any additional changes you may have made since Ruth's visit. Highlight your refurbishment on your homepage - don't bury it on the Hotel Inspector pages. I located you as a result of a google search which means you are paying for good ranking on Google Room, so don't squander the oppportnity to attract new customers like me. I nearly turned away because I thought you hadn't taken any notice of Ruth's suggestions. Happily you have, but I won't be convinced to part with my hard earned cash until I feel comfortable with the standard of accommodation I may stay in, so a www refresh should also be quickly considered. I'd also like to give my feedback on the changes you seem to be making, you can embrace modern minimalist look with country house chic without making it look too dated too soon. Please go easy on the floral paper (even if it is small florals) and stick to white bathroom suites (minus a whirlpool bath ;-)), white painted ceilings and white woodwork - colour painted woodwork will date so quickly. Good luck with your refurbishment and improving your business.

- Love white paint, new pictures up soon

 Mrs Annie Thompson wrote from berkshire on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I booked to stay at the Woodlands Lodge in April last year as a surprise for my partners 60th birthday.As it was a special celebration I booked the Garden Room with the now famous 6 foot circular whirlpool bath. I would like to say we were both delighted with the room and had a wonderful weekend.I do not think that the programme did the Woodlands justice. I know we did not see any other room but ours was light and airy, probably due to the small conservatory at the back. The food was very good and the menu variable. We will be back to stay, preferably in the same room, in the future and perhaps you can notify us when the refurbishment of this room is complete.

- Thank you so much. The bathroom is complete now and the sunken bath banished to the scrap yard.

 Miss Julie Hunter wrote from Southampton on Fri 23 Nov 2007

We are having our Wedding Reception at the Woodlands Hotel next April and are very much looking forward to it. We initially viewed the Hotel before much of the renovations and were impressed enough to make a booking! Keep up with the refurbishments, the new bathroom in room 1 looked fabulous. I prefer the country house feel, rather than modern minimalist style, but agree that the overly floral decor was a little overwhelming... We have eaten in the restaurant and it was superb. Can't wait to see more updated pictures on the website and hope to arrange another visit again soon.

- We look forward to meeting you again.

 Ms Maria von Wrede wrote from Colchester on Fri 23 Nov 2007

Hi guys, The show was very interesting and there is no doubt that Ruth's suggestion for a refurbishment is a good one. You have already made significant progress by putting your hotel on the map and creating a buzz around it. So now, you need to capitalise on this and really get your marketing and hotel development off the ground. I can understand your hesitation about simply replicating what your competitor is doing, because it might not be the right strategy and result in turning away your traditional customers. Hotel TerraVina's business model is that of a chique, boutique hotel that caters to young, ambitious Urbanites looking for a trendy weekend getaway. You could so easily picture the likes of Elizabeth Hurley or Kate Moss hanging out there. So in that sense, TerraVina have got their model right. However, Woodlands Lodge - simply by its name - connotes a sense of warmth, comfort, ease and homely surroundings. It's a place where people across all ages would stay and reconnect with each other. And from what I sense, this is what has attracted people to your hotel for many many years. For that reason, perhaps turning Woodlands Lodge into a stylish boutique hotel may not be the way forward because you're not niche marketing to a certain type of people. Therefore, I agree with some of the comments here and like your approach of remodelling the rooms in a style that would preserve its country, homely feeling. A good interior designer should be able to help you create a chic, luxurious country-style look that befits the surroundings without compromising comfort. When you combine that with the hotel's lovely grounds, location and an award-winning cuisine, you've got yourself a winning recipe! And always remember the motto: "Less is more!" Definitely too many patterns with those wallpapers... Kind regards, Maria

- I could not have put it better myself. Thank you

 Miss L Kennedy wrote from New Forest on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I loved the programme and think your hotel is a lovely country house, but i do think Ruth was right in saying it needed updating. The new room was fantasic, bright and fresh. I understand your need to look after all ages of guests and not everyone will enjoy the new or old rooms but i am sure you can find a happy balance. Out with the old bathrooms and in with the new ones. As parts of the New Forest are looking a little built up it is great to see we still have old country houses looking just what they are "country Houses". I moved away from London 8 years ago to live near houses just like yours. Good Lucky for 2008

- Thank you for taking the time to comment.

 Mrs Michelle Chilton wrote from Winchester on Fri 23 Nov 2007

Hello, I work for a venue/accommodation finding company based in Winchester and watched the programme last night. I haven't visited your hotel but thought from the outside the building was lovely, I think Ruth was quite correct in saying that the hotel needs updating. I see from the website that you have a picture of one of the newly decorated bedrooms, I think it looks more in keeping with the hotels age & style. There are many hotels now updating their look to the current modern brown/cream style which is very in at the moment but I think if you can keep the traditonal style with a more modern edge then maybe this will last longer! I think the reception areas also need updating, if you look at some of the 5 star country house hotels they often keep the traditonal look but also have modernised in other areas. I think you have to be careful not to overdo the chintzy flowery style. A simple unstated style with homely touches, fresh flowers, daily newspapers, lovley homemade cakes & biscuits with afternoon tea all these things add to the experience of stay. I wish you well and hope to see the hotel again when its finished.

- Thank you so much for your comments.

 Ms Jane Eyre wrote from Fleetwood on Fri 23 Nov 2007

You have a lovely hotel, and you came across as really nice people. I think the new decor was a great improvement. Room 1 is lovely now and you should do all your rooms like that. It is stylish and not too modern. Stick with the women's views!!!!!

- Thank you, keep watching the website as we put up more pictures of the rooms we have done.

 mr steve tames wrote from rading on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I thought the new bedroom decoration was too bland and would prefer plain simple english food and forget about a rosette if you have to have that new fancy stuff from the chef! She also did not mention your website which is good but is less marketed than the woodlands in brent Knoll

- Thank you .

 Mrs Margaret Rugg wrote from Devon on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I hope you don't take any notice of what the Hotel Inspector said because frankly I don't think she knew what she was talking about. I would hate it if you changed your decor to the bland characterless style that she wanted. My favourable impressions of your hotel were of the homely atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff and I see no reason why you should compare yourselves or compete with the new hotel, the Terra Vina (what a daft name). The food at your hotel was superb when we visited. I don't know why you lost your rosette but I felt rather sorry for the young chef in the programme who seemed to have the responsibility put upon him to have the award reinstated. He was out of his depth, especially when he was sent to learn from a French chef, instead of being allowed to develop his own style. My only criticism of your hotel was the whirlpool bath which was too small to be enjoyable, only just big enough to sit in, let alone to lie down. Furthermore, although the bath was clean on the inside, outside it was very dirty and greasy and when I filled the bath with water and turned on the jets, a lot of dirty stuff came out of the jets and fell into the bottom of the bath, which made me wonder how often the pipes were cleaned, if at all. Needless to say, I didn't use the whirlpool at all, which was a pity in view of it being such an important feature of your advertising.

- I notice you stayed just under two years ago since when I can guarantee that our housekeeper has put procedures in to prevent this happening again. All baths are being updated.

 Mrs Debbie Mayes wrote from Cheltenham on Fri 23 Nov 2007

I think a lot of hotels and restaurants nowadays have all jumped on the 1970s revival bandwagon and now most restaurants are in the same style with tables in rows, no tablecloths and uncomfortable looking chairs. Most of them look very stark and uninviting. I think your restaurant looks lovely though and so nice to actually still have tablecloths. I love the ceiling too. However I think the heavy floral wallpaper in some of the bedrooms is very oppresive and spoils the rooms. I think plain walls would immediately brighten the rooms and create a calmer, more elegant feel. The rooms would still look nice with traditional style furniture but more modern touches such as flat screen TVs and updated bathrooms. I am not a fan of the contempory (ie 1970s) style furniture that seems to be everywhere now, so it is good when some hotels still have a style of their own which is more traditional.

- Thank you so much.

 mrs sue nightingale wrote from York on Thu 22 Nov 2007

We stayed at Woodlands hotel last year we thought the hotel was lovely and our room was superb, it was the family room our boys loved it and it was great to be able to bring our dog, the walks around the hotel were great. I was quite suprised to read that the hotel inspector was going to the Woodlands lodge and we watched the programme with interest. I suppose to be fair the decor did need updating a little (but not because it was shabby) and I did think the restaurant did seem a little bit too 'stuffy'and not very relaxing although the conservatory area was quite nice although the 4 of us couldn't sit together at breakfast which was a shame maybe we went to breakfast too late! I dont think Ruth had a huge task on her hands tonight and her comments were fair, there was probably a little more she could have changed for example making the hotel slightly more child friendly by having a games room with a snooker table in or a table tennis table, nothing too noisy because that wouldn't match the style of the hotel, you never know some of the adults may enjoy it too! We enjoyed our stay and we are looking forward to our return.

- Thank you for taking the time to cheer us up!

 Mrs Victoria Horwood wrote from Derbyshire on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I thought that your hotel looked lovely although I certainly felt that it was in need of redecorating - not in a stark, minimalistic, ultra modern style but a restful, elegant, far less fussy style with soft, tranquil colours and lots of white paintwork (ceilings, doors etc). I also felt that Head Chef Stuart was put in extremely difficult position and he must have suffered considerable stress by having his cuisine(which looked delicious, by the way) criticised so publicly. He seemed such a pleasant, creative, enthusiastic and conscientious young man and I hope that all is going well for him now.

- Thank you for taking the time to comment. To quote Ruth 'You sound like my sort of woman'

 Mr. Nick Mason wrote from Winchester on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I thought Ruth was very fair - in her own way, of course - and overall the programme reflected the hotel in a very good light. It hasn't deterred me from staying there, in fact on the positive side it prompted me to check out your website to look at prices/availability. I agree with Ruth's verdict on the decor, I must add. Mauled? No, I think the publicity will be far more beneficial than any negative feelings about the "Dante" wallpaper.

- Thank you. very little of the original decor left!

 Mr David Wilkinson wrote from Sanderstead, Surrey on Thu 22 Nov 2007

My wife Catherine and I (middle aged!) sometimes stay at country house hotels with our well-behaved border collie (Jed). We just watched the programme by accident and both strongly feel you should take Ruth's advice. Catherine just looked at the rooms featured on your website and immediately gained the impression that the decor featured in the rooms does look dated and would put her off booking to stay. It's good you are improving the bathrooms and whirlpool baths would not be an influential feature for us. We look for relaxed peaceful country house ambience but with a bit of luxury and good food. If the bedrooms are tired looking and the beds not good quality then we would be disappointed. We feel your hotel is very well situated with nice gardens and could be extremely popular with the right image and if marketed correctly. It would definitely have more appeal to a wider range of ages if you modernise and this should not mean you lose existing older clientele. Good luck with the improvements and hopefully the restaurant menu will also improve in line with Ruth's suggestions. Developing a good relationship with the new hotel next door shopuld be beneficila for business but you would need to show them that modernisation of the rooms is an ongoing process. We'll monitor your website and perhaps we might visit one weekend in 2008..........

- We do have a lot of compliments on the comfort of the beds. We are really enjoying updating/upgrading all rooms and hope we may greet you some time in 2008 by which time we should be completed

 Mrs Jane Speare wrote from Chester Cheshire on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I found the programme very interesting, I reaaly liked the new look in bedroom 1 and think if you carry the decorations throughout it would be beneficial.I would like at some time in the future to visit with my husband for a short break the country surroundings are beautiful. I am sure your new chef will do very well but as it said on the programme will take a little longer than you had hoped. Good look to the 3 of you. Good luck with whatever you have in mind.

- Thank you so much.

 Mrs Yvette Wood wrote from Surrey on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I actually thought Ruth was right. After seeing the program this evening, i did think that your decor was far too dark and depressing. I did however like the antique looking furniture that you had around the hotel and the bedrooms. (except the floral chairs). I did find myself wondering why you had asked her to help you with your hotel seeing as you seemed so against everything that she seemed to suggest to you all. I did get the feeling of too many cooks. I do hope that you take what she said into account. I would love to book a romantic weekend with my husband to stay in your hotel, but if i had to stay in one of those floral rooms, i would be unhappy. I think you need to incorporate Ruths fresh look with your antique furniture (not the beds), maybe then you might have a winning formula.

- We took most of what Ruth said on board. Do not forget it was a very condensed account of many days of talking with her and other professionals.

 mr paul kane wrote from Birmingham on Thu 22 Nov 2007

Hello, The programme was good to watch, because as a viewer, you like to see, a negative situation become positive, within the 60 minutes.You did get a mauling, especially the 2 men and the chef to a lesser extent. But, prehaps the positive thing, is that it has put the fight back into your approach to this business. It is difficult and expensive to carry out repairs and upgrades on rooms. Money, money, money is always the problem. I feel positive looking at this web page, and do think you will rise to the challenge. Thank you. paul. P.S. do you have an asbestos survey. Thank you.

- Thank you for your positive comments. Ruth certainly put the enthusiasm back and we are well on the way to upgrading all rooms and bathrooms.

 miss k ashton wrote from leicester on Thu 22 Nov 2007

i have just watched the hotel inspector visit your hotel,what a beautifull place,but the decor has let it down alot.your new look in room 1 is fab,its what people want in a hotel and you should carry the theme through.it is what every one else has but they have a huge demand on there rooms and are always full.people like plain, modern and sheek!!!

- Not everyone, some like clean, modern and with character.

 Mrs Diane Eagles wrote from South of England on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I loved the contemporary look of the new Room 1 and the bathroom. Please use that new, light style for more rooms. It's so chic and clean and the floral feature wall showed up well against the light decor.

- Am doing. Thank you.

 A Hotel Inspector wrote from Edinburgh on Thu 22 Nov 2007

Hi team, We've just watched the programme and we thought you guys seemed really nice, but we think that you really should follow Ruth's plan for the updating the hotel. Jenny is right - press on with your plans. Remove the wallpaper! It's awful! Personally, we'd stay across the road (have you seen their website - it's beautiful!) If it's all too much, are you doing the right thing in keeping the hotel? All the very best and keep eating in your reataurant - go and stay in the hotel across the road and see how they do things (undercover of course!) learn from others and then keep making changes. Don't stay stuck in the 1980's! Jenny - keep going! Guys - put some fire in your belly!

- It is a lovely hotel and Gerard and Nina are great hosts.

 Dr Mary Symonds wrote from Oxford on Thu 22 Nov 2007

The programme was quite boring because you weren't on the brink of bankruptcy. I didn't like the new room at all - black and white aren't characteristic of the New Forest and though I thought the whirlpool bath was dangerous to use, I couldn't see the reason for putting in a freestanding one. they do all need to come out because they are very unhygienic. I think the hotel could gradually be modernised and, sorry to say, as I am nearly seventy myself, I think a 'bright young thing' on reception might be an asset. The wild overall wallpaper is definitely overdoing it but I think the hotel should keep its characteristic charm - even going back to the 'thirties - and don't throw away too much furniture - I get so tired of beech MDF and technology and fancy lights! There is no way you can 'compete' with next door - so don't try! All best wishes - and I'll call in soon as I am moving to Milford on Sea but the price is too high for me to stay.

- Thank you so much for your comments. we have four very attractive receptionist ( two in their twenties) but they were shy! We look forward to meeting you, make yourself known when you do.

 Mr & Mrs Stephen Day wrote from Winchester, Hampshire on Thu 22 Nov 2007

From what we saw on the programme the hotel was obviously comfortable and welcoming but relied on its position to attract clients. As a previous comment has shown, a certain type of person willl enjoy this experience and may even return. However, with the competition able to provide a modern and high quality service, unless you move forward to compete on a similar level your business will continue to decline. The bedroom decor is reminiscent of French hotels we visited in the 1980s. We are in our 60s and support the Hotel Inspector's encouragement 100%.

- WE realised the need to move forward which is why we asked Ruth in and are grateful for all her advice.

 Mrs Debbie Serpant wrote from Stanwell, Middlesex on Thu 22 Nov 2007

Ruth is so right. You really need to sort those bedrooms out. Stop holding Jenny back, let her do what she is more than capable of doing with the decor. If you can get all of your room looking like bedroom one did on the show, we would not hesitate in staying with you when we visit our friends in New Milton. The fact that you allow dogs is a big bonus (for us anyway). We wish you the best of luck with the makeover, and hope you reap the benifits soon. Kindest regards Debbie Serpant

- Thank you .

 Mrs Sharon Binnersley wrote from Shropshire on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I really enjoyed the programme, I think your Hotel is set in an amazing location and the Hotel surrounds are fabulous. I do agree with the Hotel Inspector about the decor, as I feel I would not be attracted to your hotel from the images on your website or from the show. Although I would classfiy my husband and I as youngish (30-40) we enjoy visiting beautiful hotels like yours rather than a chain without character however I don't feel that I would visit unless I was guaranteed Room 1 (refurbished room). I hope you are nearing regaining your restauarant award and I wish you best wishes in your future plans for your hotel. Kind Regards Sharon Binnersley

- Thank you so much. Other rooms have been done. They are bright and fresh with a lot less pattern but not necessarily as contemporary as Ruths.

 Mrs Susan de Boeck wrote from twickenham on Thu 22 Nov 2007

although I agreed who;e eartedly with all of Ruth's criticisms (decor - especially that ghastly wallpaper on the ceiling!! and those horrid whirlpool baths) i did not think the newly decorated room one was what I would expect when staying in a hotel like that.

- Agreed, we are trying to keep the Country House feel with the light and freshness of Ruths suggestions

 ms anne price wrote from ongar on Thu 22 Nov 2007

I think you need to do up all your rooms

- Absolutely, more than half done now, website not yet fully updated

 Mr David Norbury wrote from New Forest on Thu 22 Nov 2007

What do you think - did we get mauled?

 Mr/s Eileen and Roger Bateman wrote from Rugeley, Staffs on Thu 22 Nov 2007

Our first encounter with Woodlands Lodge was back in 1993 which was for our silver wedding and we were in the Autumn in Abbottsbury Room. We came during March this year and it was nice to see that it still felt cosy and welcoming. We had a lovely two night break, the weather was superb, the food, the ambience the staff there was nothing we could fault. I expect it depends on what your aspirations are but it will be interesting to see what the hotel inspector says when we watch the programme tonight. I have seen a trailer already and can assure you that we did not have any meal that looked like cat sick, in fact all the food we had was delicious. Maybe the country feel wallpaper and traditional decor is not what young people want and is not in keeping with modern hotels today, but your hotel has such a lovely feel to it (very warm and inviting) I hope you are not going to change it drastically. The only comment we have about our room was the bathroom was very small and it had carpet on the floor and these days carpet is not good for bathrooms, but it certainly did not spoil our weekend, (I can't remember the room no but we were right at top at the end of the corridor overlooking the car park.) Do you think that the hotel inspectors visit did benefit your hotel it would be nice to hear from you.