Boys Hall
One Michelin Key
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Hotel Details
Location
Willesborough
United Kingdom, Europe
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Key Highlights
- ✓Food Quality:** The food is a major draw, consistently rated as "outstanding," "amazing," and "very impressive".
Expert Review: Boys Hall
Boys Hall, nestled in Willesborough, United Kingdom, has garnered significant acclaim, recently earning a prestigious One Michelin Key award, signifying an outstanding stay experience. This 17th-century manor, lovingly restored by Kristie and Brad Lomas, is celebrated by both locals and visitors for its charm, attention to detail, and exceptional hospitality.
Overall Rating & Sentiment
Boys Hall consistently receives "superb" and "wonderful" ratings from guests, with an impressive score of 9.1 out of 10 based on numerous reviews. The overwhelming sentiment is one of delight and awe, with many describing their stay as "exquisite" and "perfect". It holds a near-perfect rating of 4.4 on TripAdvisor and was awarded a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award for 2025. The hotel has also been recognized as the 'World's Best Country House Retreat' at the National Geographic Traveller (UK) Hotel Awards.
Key Highlights
Guests consistently praise several aspects of Boys Hall:
- Design & Ambiance: The hotel is lauded for its "exquisite" decoration and styling, blending historic charm with modern, easygoing opulence. The beautifully restored manor, dating back to 1616, features original beams, wood paneling, and old-school floral prints. The three acres of gardens are also frequently mentioned as beautiful.
- Service & Staff: The service is repeatedly described as "outstanding" and "exceptional," with staff being polite, friendly, helpful, and attentive. Guests often highlight the careful selection and training of the team.
- Food Quality: The food is a major draw, consistently rated as "outstanding," "amazing," and "very impressive".
- Overall Experience: The "attention to detail" throughout the hotel is a recurring highlight.
Room Quality
The nine individually designed bedrooms at Boys Hall are a significant point of praise. They lean into the period charm of the 1616 manor with features like beams, wood paneling, and old-school floral prints, while also incorporating modern comfort. Guests describe rooms as "spacious" and "beautifully decorated". Each room is decked out in jewel tones, often featuring statement headboards or four-poster beds. While most aspects are highly regarded, one guest noted a modern and functional bath was "on the small side for this room". Rooms typically include an ensuite bathroom, free toiletries, a wardrobe, garden view, coffee machine, tea/coffee maker, and free WiFi. The "Bishop's Quarter" room is recommended for a VIP experience.
Dining Experience
The dining experience at Boys Hall is consistently highlighted as exceptional. The restaurant, housed in an airy, barn-like extension, is Michelin Guide-listed and holds 2 AA Rosettes. The food is described as "outstanding," "amazing," and "very impressive," focusing on high-quality Kentish produce. Dishes like hake with roasted cauliflower, caviar, and butter sauce are examples of the flavorful offerings. Guests appreciate the expert waiting staff who advise on portions and value. There is also an on-site pub and terrace, perfect for drinks. The wine list features a reassuring focus on English wines.
Service & Staff
The service at Boys Hall receives universal acclaim. Guests frequently use words like "exceptional," "outstanding," "polite," "friendly," and "helpful" to describe the staff. Many reviewers emphasize that the service "could not be faulted" and that every member of staff was attentive. The owners, Kristie and Brad Lomas, are also recognized for their dedication and for pouring their hearts into every detail.
Location & Accessibility
Boys Hall is located in Willesborough, Ashford, offering a favorable location for those escaping London or exploring Kent's wine region. It's approximately an hour from London by train and car, making it an accessible getaway. While nestled between a train line and the M20, which some might consider a minor drawback for the immediate surroundings, it is perfectly situated for visiting many pretty vineyards nearby. The hotel itself is surrounded by three acres of gorgeous gardens, adding to its appeal. The nearest train station, Ashford International, is approximately 1.14 miles away.
Value & Pricing
Guests generally find Boys Hall to be worth the cost, with "value for money" scoring 8.7 out of 10. While specific pricing varies, rooms are noted to start from £153, with dinner and drinks for two potentially costing around £201, excluding service charge. For the level of quality in both food and accommodation, guests feel the pricing is "about right".
Common Complaints
While overwhelmingly positive, specific common complaints are not prominently highlighted in the reviews. The only minor criticism found was regarding a bath being "on the small side" for one particular room. Overall, guest feedback points to a consistently high-quality experience with very few, if any, recurring issues.
Sources
About One Michelin Key
One Michelin Key is awarded to hotels that offer a very special stay. These properties are characterized by their unique personality, high quality, and ability to create memorable experiences for guests.
