Ickworth Hotel

I went with my husband to The Ickworth Hotel for afternoon tea which was bought for us as a Christmas present. The voucher was for £30 through Buyagift. However, to partake of the afternoon tea, we had to pay an additional £40. For this sort of money you would expect something spectacular. However, what arrived was a complete rip-off. We asked if we could substitute the cakes for extra sandwiches due to a medical condition. What arrived was four finger sandwiches each, four small sausage rolls and two scones with cream and jam. The fillings for the sandwiches was the worst value for money and certainly not what you would expect from a hotel that wants to pride itself on its culinary offerings. The only fillings were grated cheese with pickle, pre-packed ham and pickle and, finally, tuna and cucumber. Surely, for £35 each, you would expect some smoked salmon and some beef sandwiches. This was an absolute rip-off and we won't be going there again. I would advise anybody who has been given a Buyagift voucher not to waste it on Afternoon Tea at The Ickworth Hotel.

Initially, I was apprehensive after reading some reviews, but we ended up having a fantastic time as a couple with our toddler. The hotel is well-suited for families, and our son especially loved the library room and outdoor trampoline. We were fortunate to have great weather, which made exploring the grounds even more enjoyable—it was peaceful and relaxing to walk around. One of the sweetest touches was the milk and cookies left near reception in the evening, which our toddler absolutely loved. The food wasn’t my favourite , but the toasties were delicious, and the breakfast selection was good. While the dining area is currently undergoing refurbishment, it still provided a pleasant atmosphere for meals. The hotel was generally clean, though we did notice some dirty carpets in places and occasional leftover cups and cutlery on tables. However, the staff were wonderful—always friendly, greeting guests as they walked around, and checking in on how we were doing. To top it off, I had a massage during our stay, and it was absolutely fantastic—10/10!

We have just returned from a 2 night stay at the Ickworth hotel for my partners 40th birthday celebration with our 3 year old twins. We had such a fantastic time, the staff went beyond to make sure we were having the best time possible. They helped to set up the gorgeous room as a surprise, for families this hotel is perfect, for a mum feeling like they are welcome there and nothing was a problem. They loved the 4 bears Den, Jo was amazing down there they loved the 2 sessions that they went also the little cinema they loved with popcorn. Swimming pool was good, nice temp and for a little dip with the kids was great. Food, coffee, wine etc all great too. We couldn’t fault any part. Beth the hotel manager was amazing also when we needed some extra assistance with my poorly dad and she made life so much easier for us she was very present and helped out throughout and couldn’t do more for you - as did all the staff. We will be back, keep up the good work Ickworth x

We were a little apprehensive after reading some of the reviews but were pleasantly surprised! The room was spacious and clean. Nice big bath and a decent shower. The room got very hot but there was a fan. The pool was great! It felt clean and was a good temperature. The staff were lovely- super friendly and helpful! We weren’t keen on the buffet breakfast being out in the corridor.. it just seemed a bit odd being out there. Food was okay though, fresh and they kept it stocked up. The grounds are absolutely beautiful and we enjoyed walking around and exploring. We don’t believe this to be a “luxury” hotel though. There is a lot of wear and tear and it feels very tired. We’ve stayed at the LFH in Fowey and that offered so much more. Overall, we had a really lovely time! Apparently it’s due for a revamp soon so we would return once that has happened.

The hotel is in a stunning location and has a very grand exterior. The staff are quite young, they are welcoming and work hard to please. It is very relaxed and easy for young families. The facilities for children are good. It is a shame that with such great potential and a fabulous setting that the hotel is let down by a number of things. It can hardly be described as luxury! The bedrooms are spacious and traditional but sadly it’s a bit scruffy. The curtains in my room were torn and the carpet was dirty. A lot of the furniture in the hotel is a big grubby. We ate in the hotel each night. There are a series of small dining areas. Dinner on night one the floor was flithy as a dog had chewed up a stick in the middle of the floor and there was food on the carpet, The dining chairs were dirty. At breakfast still no one had cleaned the floor! Food was average but expensive for what it was, £22 for s fish cake! We waited for over an hour for food on the first night. Generally the service was very slow. There were problems with the water supply and there was no water for a shower on two occasions. I did like the place but found it frustrating that it was let down by slow service, dirty surroundings and general lack of good management, Get it sorted!