The Shrubbery

This hotel is widely recognized as a premier venue for weddings and other special events, with its beautiful grounds and historic building providing a charming backdrop. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff as a standout feature, often describing their service as going "above and beyond." The hotel is well-suited for event attendees seeking a seamless experience, leisure travelers looking for a comfortable base with good dining, and dog owners due to its accommodating policies. Business travelers also find it convenient for stopovers. While many rooms are praised for their spaciousness and comfort, some guests note that certain areas are undergoing refurbishment. To enhance your stay, consider inquiring about recently updated rooms, and be aware that restaurant hours can be limited, especially on Sunday evenings, so planning to dine in town might be necessary.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities that contribute to a comfortable stay. Guests appreciate the massive car park, providing ample and free off-street parking. The pretty garden with a gazebo and other green areas offers a pleasant space for relaxation and socialising, often featuring lovely distant views. The bar area is generally well-regarded, described as well-stocked and offering cosy spots, though some find it small. The hotel is a popular choice for events, boasting a large ballroom and various social spaces that can be adapted for different functions. While free Wi-Fi is available, some guests have noted that the hotel lacks a lift, which can be a significant consideration for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage, as rooms may be accessed via multiple flights of stairs. The hotel also maintains a pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs in designated areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many describing rooms as clean and comfortable. Most guests find the beds very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Rooms are often noted for their spaciousness, some featuring charming decor and ample storage. However, there is mixed feedback regarding the overall room condition; while some rooms have been recently refurbished with modern bathrooms and walk-in showers, others are described as dated, tired, or in need of refurbishment, with issues like creaking floorboards or peeling paint. Bathroom quality varies, with some guests experiencing poor shower pressure or inconsistent hot water. Noise levels are also mixed; some rooms are quiet, even during events, while others, particularly those near the bar or main road, can experience traffic noise or sound from other guests due to thin walls. Heating can also be inconsistent, with some rooms being cold while others are too warm.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive mixed but generally positive reviews. Most guests praise the excellent breakfast, highlighting its good choice of cooked items and prompt service, though some find portions small or note that items can run out. A recurring point of feedback is the use of a machine for coffee and tea at breakfast, which some guests find disappointing compared to fresh service. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant is frequently commended for its good quality and delicious food, with many guests enjoying the carvery and specific dishes like the steak. The restaurant offers a wide choice and is often described as warm and welcoming. However, some guests mention a limited menu or that the restaurant is not open every evening, particularly Sundays, requiring them to seek dining options elsewhere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within an easy walk into Ilminster town centre, offering convenient access to shops, cafes, and local attractions. It is also well-situated for touring the surrounding area and serves as a convenient stopover point for journeys to Cornwall, with easy access from the M5 and A303. The hotel boasts ample free parking, including a massive car park at the rear, which is a major plus for guests arriving by car. Many rooms and public areas offer countryside views or pleasant outlooks over the hotel gardens. However, some guests note that rooms at the front of the hotel can experience road noise from the nearby busy road. Internally, the hotel's layout, with multiple staircases and no lift, can pose an accessibility challenge for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receive high praise, being described as exceptionally friendly and helpful, going above and beyond to assist guests. Their attentive service and willingness to accommodate requests contribute significantly to a positive guest experience. The check-in process is generally reported as smooth and efficient, though a few guests have experienced brief waits at reception. Staff are noted for their professionalism and efficiency, particularly in handling large groups and event service, such as weddings and parties, where their coordination and responsiveness are highly commended. Guests appreciate the staff's efforts in resolving issues promptly, such as providing extra blankets or addressing room concerns. Overall, the dedication of the team to ensuring guest satisfaction is a recurring theme in reviews, making for a welcoming atmosphere.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing ongoing refurbishment in various areas, with some rooms already updated to a modern standard, while others retain a more traditional, albeit sometimes dated, feel. Guests should be aware that the hotel is no longer affiliated with the Best Western chain, which has caused some confusion for past guests. The hotel is a popular venue for event hosting, including weddings and parties, which can occasionally lead to increased noise levels, particularly in rooms located near event spaces. A notable pet-friendly policy allows guests to bring their dogs, with specific areas designated for them, including a section in the breakfast area. While many guests find the hotel offers good value for money, some feel that certain aspects, such as the quality of some amenities or the lack of daily room servicing, do not align with their expectations for the price.