The Fleece at Ruleholme

On arrival reception told us there was no hot food until the evening, we had hoped to have lunch but they could only manage a bacon sandwich, very disappointing given they’d been closed for two weeks and their excuse was that they weren’t ready. The room was well appointed and clean, it was very cold and we had to ask the reception to turn on the heating, this we had to do again when we got back from dinner as again the room was very cold. There was only one food menu for the hotel and when l questioned this l was made to feel take it or leave it, the menu was also limited, we had family members join us for dinner and sadly we had to settle for “fish and chips” one of our six diners had the hake and said this was good, the staff gave us polite smiles but the feeling was they didnt want to be there. The hotel fires weren’t lit and the atmosphere cold, not welcoming. The staff chatted among themselves and one of the receptionists came from the kitchen eating, another stopped to speak to a guest with a cold drink she was drinking, sloppy. The whole atmosphere was one of indifference, time in my opinion to raise the standards and maybe have the owners drop in without notice. Overall a nice hotel but not good enough.

Our meal was booked as a family get-together and we all ordered off their 'Festive Menu' and we had Christmas Crackers etc on the table. Due to the number of people in our party we were offered a private dining area at the side of their main restaurant which went down a treat. The food was first class and the staff worked really hard. After lunch we sat in their lounge area and young girl sang for the guests which went down a treat.

Another lovely stay. We booked the Sunday night package and arrived and checked in just before our Sunday lunch. We chose to eat our charcuterie board in the upstairs library later in the evening. A perfect, relaxing stay, finished off with a tasty breakfast the following morning. Just what we needed and I’m sure we will be back again.

Another great stay. It's great to go somewhere so close to home. Once you're inside you could be anywhere. On these dark nights there's nothing nicer than a drink before dinner in front of a warm real fire. Our meal was faultless. And the fish pie I had was divine. I wish I could make pastry like that!!

We’ve stayed here before and experienced a lovely stay. However, we saw a big difference in our recent stay in the quality, service and especially the food. Breakfast was poor in choice, they got my order wrong and the continental was very poor. The main meal was not good at all, bland, soft vegetables and tough chicken. I was offered an alternative meal but did not get this. It’s such a shame but it’ll be our last visit

Amazing calm atmosphere and spotless. Food so far Sunday lunch absolutely beautiful and the service has been second to none since I arrived. As arriving solo it was good to see that you need ur room card to access the accomodation. My room was spotless and so cosy and there is everything you need . As they don't offer meals on Sunday evening I ordered a meat platter for later in the lounge area, you don't have to arrange it for certain time you just need to let the bar know when you want it, so no time limits really. Staff are really welcoming and friendly!