Elford House

Location: The property is frequently praised for its excellent location, being close to the town center and main attractions.

I booked two nights at Elford House based on the headline number of 5 star reviews. If I had looked further I would have seen that, out of a total of the 3 reviews left since Aug '21, two of those were 2 stars! My husband has left a 1 star review on their website (inadvertently stating payment as £195). I actually paid £178 (room only) up front for the worst B&B experience ever. From the inhospitable and dreary entrance lobby with the key boxes, through a tired and soulless trip to our room, and the actual room itself (No 9), described as DELUXE, our feeling was that of a hostel with no host present. The room was basically and unattractively furnished. There were no toiletries apart from one mini tablet of soap on the sink and there was black mould on the shower sealant. Having spent a short time in the room we decided to find somewhere else to stay. Eventually we found a really nice, welcoming place and transferred our luggage. I messaged Devon Howard, who had sent me the keycode and who I assume is the owner, to explain why we had left. Two weeks on and I have not had a reply or acknowledgement, or any offer to repay my £178. This says it all. I'm afraid. So be very wary.

Booked here because it came with parking . We had room 10 , and are sorry to say disappointed with it. No full height wardrobe ,a cupboard built into the eaves.Came with plenty of coathangers,which have to be on an angle so the doors can close, ill fitting handles /doors.In this cupboard was an iron but no ironing board . The mattress was very uncomfortable and noisy every time you moved,the pillows are hard and after the 1st night I had a bad back and stiff neck! The curtains are pale and thin and let a lot of light in, blackout curtains needed,so you are not awake from sunrise every morning. The breakfast bar is narrow and comes with 2 tall chairs..A good view of the Abbey whilst having your breakfast though. Tea and coffee are provided,no selection of teas or decaff .Small kettle couldn't make 2 full cups at the same time. A cooler is provided,so you can put cans etc in. A vanity unit would be good ,a small hairdryer is provided but have to stand at the mirror opposite . The bathroom is a good size ,the toiletries smelt lovely,but a very small shower,easily fit a larger shower in there. No shower drain cover and could see dark hairs from previous guests in the drain. Bath sheets would have been better,as towels on the small size,and a proper bath mat. Breakfast was ok,no spoons to eat your egg with though.If they gave you a menu to pick from before you came,you could actually have what you wanted and not given things you wouldn't eat.This would also cut down on their shopping bill and food waste. Unfortunately the lack of customer service is what lets this B & B down.Other than getting the check in code,never heard from the owners.No quick text to see if everything was ok with our stay,no little tag on the breakfast basket to say Good Morning,hope you enjoy breakfast,small things can make a big difference.Everthing is down to the guest if you want anything,you have to ring them,they won't contact you to see if you are happy with everything.This is not what the hospitality trade is about,it's about meeting your guests and building a rappor with them,not being at arms length away at the end of a 'phone. As you have probably guessed we would not recommend or stay here again.We will book in to somewhere with a more personal touch.