Cliveden House

The hotel is a magnificent historical stately home renowned for its opulent setting and extensive National Trust grounds, which include stunning gardens and direct access to the River Thames. Its signature feature is the blend of historical grandeur with modern luxury, making it an ideal destination for couples celebrating special occasions, history buffs eager to explore its rich past, and spa enthusiasts seeking relaxation. The property also stands out for its exceptional dog-friendly policy, welcoming pets in many areas. While most guests praise the comfortable accommodations and attentive service, some note areas for improvement in dining consistency. To fully appreciate the experience, guests are advised to dedicate ample time to exploring the vast gardens and to indulge in the hotel's comprehensive spa facilities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed for relaxation and enjoyment. The spa is a major highlight, featuring both a heated indoor pool and a heated outdoor pool, along with hot tubs, a steam room, and a sauna, providing ample opportunities for rejuvenation. Guests frequently praise the quality of the massage treatments available. The inviting bar area and elegant lounge areas are perfect for unwinding, with many appreciating their cozy ambiance. A unique and delightful feature is the Butler's Pantry, offering complimentary snacks and drinks for guests. While a fitness center is available, some guests have noted it is small and could benefit from more equipment. Wi-Fi is generally available, though some found it to be weak in certain areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally commend the hotel's high standards of cleanliness, describing rooms and common areas as immaculately maintained. The accommodations are often highlighted for their spacious rooms, luxurious decor, and the exceptional comfort of the beds, with many specifically mentioning the inviting four-poster beds that ensure a restful night's sleep. The bathrooms are frequently praised for their size and features, including marble baths and soaking tubs. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; while many find them stunning, some have noted minor issues such as dated decor, yellow stains in toilets, or water marks on wallpaper. A few guests also experienced issues with bathroom amenities like shower pressure or lack of an extractor fan. Noise levels are typically low, contributing to a quiet and peaceful stay, though occasional external sounds like wind have been mentioned. Some rooms lack modern conveniences like USB charging points or a minibar.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers diverse dining experiences, with afternoon tea consistently receiving high praise for its delicious food, generous portions, and beautiful setting, often described as a faultless and memorable occasion. Breakfast generally garners positive reviews for its quality and variety, including an impressive buffet, though some guests have reported issues with lukewarm food, slow service, or specific items like overcooked bacon. The main dining room is celebrated for its elegant ambiance and ambitious tasting menus, which many find exceptional. However, some guests have expressed disappointment with the food quality in the main dining room, citing overcooked dishes or unbalanced flavors that do not always meet the high price point. The Astor Grill offers a more casual yet equally popular dining option, with many guests enjoying its tasty food and lively atmosphere, including notable plant-based options. Conversely, a few found the Astor Grill's menu to be inconsistent or overpriced for the quality. The bar also receives positive mentions for its delicious cocktails.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant draw, set within extensive grounds that are meticulously maintained by the National Trust. Guests particularly enjoy the vast gardens, including the Long Garden and Water Garden, which offer picturesque walks and stunning views. The property's proximity to the River Thames allows for delightful activities such as boating and riverside strolls, with some guests appreciating the option of a buggy service back to the hotel from the river. While the hotel provides a serene escape, it is also conveniently accessible from London via the Elizabeth Line and a short taxi ride from Taplow station, making it suitable for both leisure and pre-airport stays. However, some guests note its somewhat remote nature from other shops or local amenities. Parking is available, though a National Trust entry fee was unexpectedly applied to some guests' bills, which was later rectified upon inquiry.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendly staff, attentive service, and professionalism, with many guests highlighting their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. From the quick check-in process to the efficient valet service and helpful concierge, the team is often described as welcoming and accommodating. Housekeeping is frequently commended for keeping rooms beautiful and tidy. The hotel's dog-friendly service is particularly noted, with staff genuinely loving and catering to canine companions. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests have reported isolated instances of perceived snobbishness, lack of warmth, or unenthusiastic service, particularly during busy breakfast periods. One review mentioned an inappropriate remark from a staff member, and another noted a rude hotel manager, though these appear to be rare exceptions to the generally excellent service.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably dog-friendly, allowing pets in many areas and providing dedicated services, though guests should be mindful of finding suitable outdoor areas for their dogs. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to participate in history talks or guided tours of the house, enriching their understanding of the property's unique past. The hotel excels at making special occasion celebrations truly memorable, often surprising guests with personalized touches like birthday cakes, cards, and room upgrades. However, some guests have expressed confusion or dissatisfaction regarding the hotel's service charges or destination fees, finding them to be less transparent or not adequately explained at booking. The hotel is also a popular wedding venue, which can sometimes lead to crowded common areas or impact the ambiance for other guests. While generally positive, one review raised concerns about the hotel's health policy, feeling it did not prioritize guest well-being when dealing with a potentially contagious guest.