Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House

This is our local country house hotel and we have known it for meals and functions over two decades. Being under a mile away we have not stayed overnight. It has had its ups and downs over that time under three owners. Sadly it is now at its lowest. We called in for the all-day brunch today and the hotel looked so sad. The receptionist, in a sweat shirt, was busy with check outs - reasonable at the time of day. So we headed through to the lounges and bar area which was deserted. When we called a very pleasant waitress explained they were busy clearing away from breakfast. We asked where the Bistro was for brunch and she showed us into a deserted room with bare tables and chairs and a leaking ceiling with bowls on the floor. She gave us menus. With the outside temperature only just above freezing the unheated room was unacceptable and we asked for the heating to be turned on. The waitress apologised and explained she was not allowed to and suggested we move into the bar area or adjoining lounge. The single resident in the lounge kindly offered to share her small free standing radiator but we found a warm rad in the bar area with a table next to it. We ordered eggs Benedict and eggs Royale (smoked salmon) and they were very good, as were the cappuccinos. And the prices were reasonable and served by a very pleasant Canadian waitress. So we were more than happy with the food and service. A quick visit to the spa found it empty of guests but with 4 bored staff members. More leaks in the corridors usually but not always caught by bowls on the floor. The problems of maintaining old buildings in winter are recognised - we live in one! But a country house hotel claiming 4 stars needs to be warm and welcoming. This is neither at present. It is desperately in need of some investment and proper management.

Visited with two of my daughters for a spa day. Booking process was efficient and welcome on the day in both main hotel and in spa was excellent. We were celebrating a birthday and the staff went above and beyond to make it a special occasion. Really enjoyed the spa facilities. The new furnishings look great. Treatments were all available for the three of us at the same time which was really helpful. All the staff were lovely, but special mention to Maddie who really made us feel so welcome and provided excellent customer service. We will be back.

Great place