Lewtrenchard Manor

Note: Lewtrenchard Manor Permanently Closed in February 2024.

The following review is a comprehensive overview of Lewtrenchard Manor based on its operation as a Michelin Key Selected property before its permanent closure.

Comprehensive Hotel Review: Lewtrenchard Manor (Formerly Michelin Key Selected Property)

Lewtrenchard Manor, located in Lewdown, United Kingdom, was a celebrated country house hotel that garnered a Michelin Key selection for its exceptional hospitality and unique character prior to its permanent closure in February 2024.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Lewtrenchard Manor consistently received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests, with high ratings such as an impressive 8.7 overall on Agoda and a 9.0 on Booking.com. It was frequently described as a "beautiful country Manor" and an "exceptional experience" by those who stayed. The general sentiment highlighted its charm, historical ambiance, and the high quality of its offerings.

2. Key Highlights

Guests particularly adored the beautiful, tranquil setting and grounds of the historic Jacobean manor, which was said to be steeped in history and tastefully renovated. The hotel's exceptional food and dining experience, along with the fantastic and attentive staff, were consistently praised as standout features. Comfortable and luxurious rooms, often featuring cozy log fires in the lounges, contributed to the indulgent escape. The property was also notably dog-friendly, welcoming four-legged companions in most public areas except the main restaurant.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Lewtrenchard Manor were renowned for their comfort and thoughtful design. Guests frequently described them as "luxuriously comfortable" and "sparkling clean and well appointed," with beautifully decorated en-suite bathrooms. Each of the 16 countryside bedrooms was individually designed, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Common features included 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets, luxurious duvets, sumptuous pillows, excellent mattresses, well-stocked hospitality trays, HD TVs, and free Wi-Fi. While some rooms maintained a classic aesthetic with dark wood furniture and traditional fabrics, others offered a more contemporary feel. Notably, one historic room reportedly contained a double bed once owned by Queen Henrietta Maria. The rooms located in the coach house were often considered the most modern.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Lewtrenchard Manor was a significant highlight, with its fine-dining restaurant, Providence (also referred to as Origin), receiving widespread acclaim. The restaurant was praised for serving meticulously prepared and beautifully presented dishes that showcased the wonderful flavors of the West Country, utilizing local produce from neighboring farms and freshly caught seafood. Menus were seasonal, and guests could enjoy a three-course dinner, often complemented by canapés and artisanal breads. A surprise seven-course tasting menu, featuring ingredients from the hotel's own kitchen garden, was also a luxurious option. Breakfast was consistently described as "amazing," offering both cooked and continental options, including a full English or West Country Breakfast.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Lewtrenchard Manor were consistently rated as exceptional, achieving a remarkable 9.2 for staff performance on Agoda and 9.8 on Hotels.com. Guests frequently highlighted the staff as "fantastic," "friendly," "attentive," and "helpful." They were commended for going "above and beyond" to cater to guest needs, from arranging special requests to offering local recommendations, creating a welcoming and personalized experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Nestled in a secluded valley beneath the wild tors of Dartmoor National Park, Lewtrenchard Manor offered a picturesque and tranquil escape. The hotel was situated in Lewdown, approximately 7.7 km from Lydford Castle, and its extensive, beautiful grounds and gardens were perfect for leisurely strolls. It served as an ideal base for exploring Dartmoor and nearby towns such as Tavistock and Okehampton. The stunning coastlines of North Devon were also within an hour's drive. Local attractions included Lydford Gorge, Tintagel Castle, The Eden Project, and Okehampton Castle. The manor also provided free private parking for guests.

7. Value & Pricing

While offering a truly unique and luxurious experience, Lewtrenchard Manor was considered "a bit pricey" by some guests. Room rates reportedly started at approximately £214 per night. A three-course dinner was priced around £75 per person. Drinks, particularly wine, were also noted as being expensive, with one guest mentioning paying £37 for an "ordinary bottle of white."

8. Common Complaints

Despite its high praise, some recurring criticisms included rooms occasionally being too hot with no easy way to adjust the temperature, and a damp smell reported outside some room doors. The automatic 12.5% gratuity charge added to bills was a point of contention for some guests who preferred to decide on tipping themselves. While the food was generally exceptional, there were occasional mentions of dishes not being served hot enough. One guest also reported forgotten room service that took an hour and a half to arrive.

Sources

1. devonlive.com
2. thestaffcanteen.com
3. booking.com
4. agoda.com
5. booking.com
6. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
7. michelin.com
8. thehotelguru.com
9. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
10. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
11. luxurylifestylemag.co.uk
12. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
13. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
14. hotels.com
15. devongardenstrust.org.uk
16. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk
17. lewtrenchardmanor.co.uk