Bridgewood Manor Hotel & Spa

This hotel is widely regarded as a welcoming and comfortable retreat, particularly noted for its spa facilities and convenient location as a stop-over point for travelers. It caters well to a diverse range of guests, including solo travelers seeking a peaceful environment, business travelers needing a comfortable base, couples looking for a relaxing getaway, and groups attending events or celebrating special occasions. Many guests appreciate the hotel's general cleanliness and the attentive service provided by the staff. To ensure the best experience, it is advisable to inquire about the condition of your room upon booking, as some are more recently updated than others, and to check specific pool access times if traveling with children.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though feedback is mixed regarding their condition and size. The swimming pool is generally described as warm and inviting, but many guests note it is quite small and can become crowded, especially when parts are cordoned off for lessons. The sauna and steam room are also small, accommodating only a few people at a time, and some guests have reported unpleasant odors in the sauna. There is no hot tub or jacuzzi available. However, the spa treatments are frequently praised as relaxing and effective. Common areas like the lounge areas with fireplaces and the courtyard provide pleasant spaces for relaxation and socializing. Free Wi-Fi is available, and guests appreciate the ample, easy parking on site.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are generally found to be clean and well-maintained, with many guests praising the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a good night's sleep. The bathrooms are often described as clean, with appreciated toiletries provided. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that many rooms are dated and tired, showing signs of wear such as chipped paint, old carpets, and occasional damp patches or mould. Some guests have experienced issues with noise levels from adjoining rooms or hotel events due to thin walls. A recurring complaint is the lack of conveniently placed power sockets, particularly near the beds, often requiring guests to unplug other appliances or use extension cords. Air conditioning is not available, but fans are provided for warmer periods.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a varied dining experience, with breakfast consistently receiving high praise for its buffet style, plentiful options, and overall quality, though some guests noted issues with cold hot food items or the quality of coffee from machines. The restaurant menu receives mixed reviews; while some guests found the food to be very good, delicious, and well-presented, others described it as mediocre or overpriced, with occasional slow service. Afternoon tea is a popular choice, generally enjoyed for its food quality, but some guests found the seating arrangements (low sofas) uncomfortable, especially for older or pregnant individuals. The bar area offers good food options, but drinks are frequently mentioned as being very expensive, with prices for beer and wine notably higher than expected.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is highly valued for its easy accessibility from major motorways, making it an ideal stop-over point for travelers on longer journeys, such as those between Dover and Scotland. It is also conveniently situated for events at nearby venues like Brands Hatch. The hotel provides plentiful parking, which is easy to access and use. However, guests should be aware that the hotel is somewhat out of the way, meaning there are no other dining options or attractions within easy walking distance. This makes the on-site dining facilities a primary choice for many guests during their stay.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, frequently described as friendly, helpful, welcoming, and attentive. Guests highlight their professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is often noted as quick and smooth. Housekeeping is praised for its efficiency and responsiveness to requests. While most interactions are positive, a few isolated comments mention some staff members being perceived as less welcoming or lacking in customer service skills. Overall, the dedication of the team, from reception to the restaurant and bar, significantly contributes to the positive guest experience.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is highly appreciated by guests traveling with their dogs, noting that pets are even welcome in the bar and breakfast areas. There is an ongoing refurbishment effort, with some rooms already updated, which guests should consider when booking. The hotel operates a cashless policy, which some guests found inconvenient. While generally accommodating, some guests noted that certain seating arrangements, particularly the low sofas used for afternoon tea, may not be suitable for all guests, such as the elderly or pregnant. The hotel is also commended for its efforts to reduce single-use plastics and carbon emissions.