Old Government House Hotel & Spa

4.8/5 based on 1603 reviews
Latest Reviews
This was a very special holiday of five nights in total to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. We booked a classic room and were made welcome from the first greeting on the steps as we arrived, to the final farewell from the lovely reception team. Our room, although it didn't have the best view, was comfortable, stylish, spotlessly clean and inviting. We can't possibly name every member of staff as they were all exceptional but we recall Gareth Byrne who was particularly welcoming and easy to talk to. We thank all the staff for their kind services and the little extras that added to our stay. This was our first stay at OGH and we did not want to leave! We hope to return, thank you all so much.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We have just returned from a 3 night stay at OGH.

For our stay (end of August), we paid £650 for the 3 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.

The good: mainly very good service. Breakfast was high quality and served in the brasserie which is a pleasant setting. Bar and lounge also very nice. The pool area was smart and kept clean and tidy. The staff was polite and helpful. Nice turndown service every evening.

The less good: our room was a standard double. It was tiny. It just fitted the king size bed and there was hardly room for anything else. The decor was tired, as was the furniture and the mattress. Had we booked a suite, I’m sure the room would have been larger and more expensively appointee, but at c. £400/night for a junior suite, this is extremely expensive.

Red Carnation Hotels take note: although you appear to receive almost universal excellent and very good reviews of this hotel, you need to spend some money on the hotel and update the rooms and the furnishings. They are tired and the room we had was pokey. Although the service and food was good, we very much felt the room was very poor given how much we paid, and for this alone I do not think this hotel deserves its 5 stars. To be fair, the receptionist was apologetic about our room, and of course it is not within her gift to do much about it.

Would we stay again? At the prices charged, probably not.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited for special 0 anniversary will be back very soon for another visit. Staff friendly and welcoming. Rooms immaculate with toiletries. Great views. Food in restaurant extremely good value. Bar a great place to relax.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just back from a weekend break to Guernsey with my father, brother and sister. So glad we chose the OGH - beautiful hotel and lovely food but the staff were unsurpassable! Everyone we came in to contact with was unfailingly friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble. Genuine welcomes in the reception, bar and restaurant and all so helpful to my mobility challenged father. Thoroughly recommend and hope to visit again before too long
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The place to stay for top accomodation, good food but above all the best and most attentive service you could wish for. Every member of staff goes the extra mile. Expensive but worth every penny: gold standard hotel.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Amazing service, food and staff. Home far away from home...
thebestof.co.uk
Source: thebestof.co.uk
We stayed for a week in July. Very nice hotel quite close to the centre of St Peter Port. It's less impressive looking in real life than the images we had simply because you turn a corner onto what looks like a small road and there it is, sitting calmly on the left hand side of the road!
Breakfast was good, friendly staff. The bar was nice, easy to sit outside in the sun (there are several bars scattered around) and the pool usually had space (and drinks service) in the afternoon. It's been a hotel for a long time but we found the room numbering a little confusing (or at least I did).
The Curry Room restaurant was really excellent the evening we dined there - book a bit ahead as it's not that big, but definitely worth it.
We had a very nice view of the sea and the town from our room, which was quite spacious, lucky that the weather was very good.
Beware the concierge - who told me confidently that checkin for Alderney was 60 minutes (it's 30), luckily we checked elsewhere or we'd have been up early!
Definitely a very nice and relaxing place to stay, clearly a lot of repeat visitors so they are clearly doing something right to make people want to come back.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Smoked salmon sandwich was delicious! Sadly forgot the tea strainers for our teas! Easily sorted. Good service, great surroundings and very central! Top quality Red Carnation hotel in St Peter Port. Outdoor heated pool too!
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just beautiful. Impeccable service. Breakfast was also excellent with great variety. The pool area is quite small but we got sun loungers after a short wait. The hotel is also in a perfect location. Would highly recommend
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed before four times before and returned back today, after one night stay Jaro Opletal is amazing and you get a brilliant welcome. I have visited many Channel Island hotels and the lady that welcomed me was amazing on Reception. Old Government House Hotel stands out from the other hotels as it's just not a process they do believe in Service.At the heart of St Peter Port and a very historic hotel.This hotel is not any ordinary chain hotel and stands out from the rest. Building is old and rooms may be small depending on what room you choose, but the Service soon makes up that.
Jaro Opletal and reception team set great standards even for the single traveller like me.
If your travelling to Channel Islands or to Guernsey this hotel is a must. I did visit this hotel before it became a Red Carnation Hotel, and standards have increased.Don't Expect a bland experince.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just returned after a four night stay at the OGH.
What a fantastic stay ideally located to visit the town.
From the moment you walk through the front door the experience begins with a glass of bubbly to start you stay,a guided tour of the hotel and then to your very comfortable room.
The staff are very friendly and absolutely nothing is to much trouble to make your stay a very memorable one.
The food is very good with a good range of meals and snacks and really no need to eat outside the hotel.
This is a 5 star hotel and I can clearly see why.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The afternoon tea at the OGH is the best of the best! The service is first class throughout and the whole experience is superb. Also, being able to have the afternoon tea in the gardens of the OGH just makes it even better. The best afternoon tea I have ever had! What an incredible place.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had never been to Guernsey, always Jersey, so we decided it was high time we went there. For our trip to the island, to celebrate my birthday, we looked at what is generally agreed is the best hotel on the island, "OGH", as all the locals call it, and we booked a superior room with sea views. This wasn't cheap, but you get what you pay for, and if you try this hotel, it would pay to buy as good a room as you can, not to say that there's anything wrong with the "standard" rooms - we had a look into a couple of them during cleaning.
Our room had a big bay window with a view over the centre of St. Peter Port, and the various harbours/marinas. There was an oversize sofa just by the window, so we could sit and look at the view.......marvellous! The rest of the room was great, just one very small markdown about the shower, which was a bit cranky and needs modernising.
The hotel is slap in the middle of town, the main entrance is not hugely imposing but once inside, the whole place is scrupulously maintained and the décor is wonderful. Most of the walls are fabric, as opposed to wallpaper, the colour schemes are superb, including sumptuous carpeting.
There are two restaurants, which I will review separately, but I will just mention here that both of them are fantastic. Breakfasts are wonderful. When we were there for three nights in August and in the middle of a U.K. heatwave, breakfasting outside was an option, this is in the gardens, which - this being Guernsey - were lovely.
But the defining feature of this hotel is the staff. Without exception, and from many countries, they are superb. And there is no stuffiness at any time, but one is regally looked after.
We have been to many luxury hotels around the world, we both agreed that OGH was right up there amongst the very best. It excels in all departments, and Guernsey is a lovely place. What more could you ask for?
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed at this gorgeous Hotel in July for a Birthday treat in one of the balcony rooms with amazing sea views
From the genuine friendly welcome of the reception staff to the exceptional service we received in all area's of the Hotel, the OGH has to be one of the top Hotels we have ever stayed in, The room was beautiful, view stunning, private balcony, we had a superb freshly cooked breakfast each morning within the walled garden, as for the location we found it perfect for sightseeing - we will return!
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
As ever OGH was wonderful. Staff are friendly and nothing is too much trouble. Outdoor pool was put to good use and food was as good as ever. I leave feeling pampered and relaxed. Location is perfect for exploring St Peters Port, an easy stroll down to the waterfront.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A perfect, faultless stay, including excellent service at Reception. The attention to detail, excellent breakfast, impeccable staff, high standard of service and extra touches are what a great stay is all about. The management and staff understand how to run a good hotel and look after their guests.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
On a five day visit to Guernsey I wanted a neck and back massage. I booked in at this spa!! Wonderful!!
Beautifully appointed and helpful staff. The massage was the best yet and I have one at home regularly. Thank you!.,
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It was great, I will definitely go there again. Very tasty food:)
thebestof.co.uk
Source: thebestof.co.uk
Not one year old and already my second review of one of the hotels belonging to the Red Carnation chain… My father is so lucky to have me point out things for him…

Arriving
After a short flight over from the continent, I found myself being carried out of an aeroplane by my parents. Seeing that Guernsey has a small airport, we had our luggage (and my buggy) in our hands in no time at all and as soon as we stepped out to the arrivals hall, we saw a man holding a sign with our family’s name on it. We approach him, he immediately offered us help with our stuff (babies need lots and lots of stuff) and we were on our way to the Old Government House Hotel. Negotiating the small streets and alleyways of Guernsey the man pointed out that he had already informed the hotel to expect us. My father thought that this was a very thoughtful thing to do (call the hotel about our approximated arrival time) and also inform us that he did it so, so we will be able to sit back, relax and enjoy our vacation, knowing that we are in good hands.

Check in went very smoothly. Lots of smiles, loads of attention, a couple of glasses of bobbles (a bottle - water only - for me) and when I was (we were) good and ready we were guided to our room. Seeing that our luggage has already magically materialised in our room, all which was left to do was to admire the view of St Peter Port from our balcony and for me to come to terms with the idea that, much like at the Montague, my parents are ones who are going to sleep in the ‘big bed’, while I will get to sleep in the baby cot made up especially for me.

Breakfast
All of my mornings started almost the same… Up by 6am (didn’t really listen when my parents said I can sleep longer because we are on vacation) got dressed (with a little help) and walked out of room on my dad’s hand to patrol the hotel and its grounds. Although it was still quite early, I met a lot of busy people making the hotel ready for the day. Despite their comings and goings, they found the time to smile at me as I passed by. I also almost made friends with a round shaped red lad with a very long nose named Henry, but I was a bit afraid of the sound he made. My routine then led me outside to the hotel’s well groomed garden, where I examined the water pressure coming out of the fountain, the leaves on the blooming bushes and the soft grass.
After my patrol had come to an end, and I saw that everything was shipshape, we headed for breakfast, which was a real treat. After a couple of days, the breakfast team already knew that one us will be needing a highchair, so it was pulled out for us without even having to ask for it and all that was felt to do was to enjoy freshly squeezed juices, coffee, tea and water to begin with. A buffet of fresh seasonal fruit, various types of ‘smelly’ cheese, some lovely Danish pastries (I was particularly partial to the cinnamon swirls) and an a al carte menu to chose from for the warm dishes. I was also often asked if something special could be made for me, but most of the time I was content with what was offered on the buffet or to share with my parents; enjoying a long side them what my dad had described as ‘the best Eggs Benedict he had ever had’.

Afternoon Tea
Who knew that such a treat as ‘afternoon tea’ exists!? Although this was my first afternoon tea, I was told by parents that it is one of the best they had sat to (Still can’t understand why I was never taken to one of those before, but maybe the fact that I wasn’t born yet has something to do with it). Sitting in the hotel’s pleasant garden, we enjoyed some good sandwiches (the cucumber-cream cheese ones were my favourite) scones topped with Guernsey clotted cream and a truly remarkable selection of tea cakes. Who could ask for more? In fact, we were asked if we need something more, but what was presented to us was already more than enough, even with me helping out a bit.

Dinners
I accompanied my parents to 2 early dinners at the hotel. One at the Brasserie and the other one at the Governor’s Curry Room. While both were excellent experiences for my parents, the Curry Room was truly exceptional. From the novel ‘colonial’ design of the restaurant down to the uniquely South African inspired curries, the place was a treat. The Naan Bread was a favourite of mine, as I had to keep away from the more elaborately spiced stuff. My parents were also happy to find some of the excellent South African wines they’ve learnt to enjoy during their stays at the Montague in London.

Spa
I didn’t get to enjoy the spa first hand, but I did get to enjoy a lovely walk in the nearby park with either of my parents while the other one unwinded in the Spa. I was told that the treatments were pleasant and professional and that my mum could highly recommend the Lava Shell treatment for all of those trying to have the daily stress melted away from them.

My Conclusion
It would seem to me, from I have been told by my parents, that the team of the OGH truly understand the meaning of ‘going on vacation’. Meaning that being on one does not only mean a nice setback, some good food and drink and family activities, but also relaxing from the daily toll of having to take care of things and constantly sorting things out. Seeing that the team of the OGH took such good care of my parents, they had even more time for me - an equation which I can honestly appreciate. Hence, I was told, that we will try to return here, sooner rather than later, knowing that an awesome time will await us. In light of that, it so good that I’ve left a scone-crumb trail for us to follow back, but I suspect that the hotel’s dedicated team had already taken care of it…
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The OGH offered a very personal service in a very convenient location in the centre of St Peter Port. I stayed on two separate occasions during the same week, and the staff made the logistics of this as easy as possible for me, in looking after luggage, arranging transfers, and a late supper.

Everything was faultless with two exceptions - my first room was quite small, and my second (much larger) room, smelled of cigarettes (or rather of copious air-freshener trying to mask it).

I would definitely choose the OGH for future stays.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My mum and I recently spent four nights at the hotel - and our expectations were surpassed. The service here was superb - everything from the complimentary drink when we arrived, to them finding and posting a ring that I had left behind (I can't remember who the lady was who dealt with that, but I was so grateful!).

Whilst there we enjoyed treatments at the spa, delicious breakfasts, and a sensational curry in the curry room. The latter was a true experience and should we return, we won't hesitate to book in again!

The bedroom (121) was beautifully decorated with beautiful toiletries - however we did notice some slight stains on the material on the walls (we mentioned this on our feedback sheet) along with a broken draw. This by no means spoiled our stay, but we do think the cosmetics is one area that could be improved.

Also on one occasion, we overheard a waiter (seemingly) being yelled at by the manager in the restaurant during our breakfast in the Brasserie. We genuinely can not fault the service we received by everyone there - however one of things we appreciate most is when staff appear to respect each other (particularly in public!). This was a one-off, and we only overheard the incident - we know nothing about the context.

All that being said.....

we had a truly excellent stay, and both my mum and I wished we could have stayed for longer. Having met other guests who return every year, it is easy to see why. We certainly hope to return again sometime soon.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed in a classic room on a 4 nights for 3 deal. Exceptional service in reception, concierge, and breakfast room as well as outdoor areas.
However, room was smaller than we have been used to in hotels of this calibre. Shown other rooms of a higher standard by the excellent Nelly and Anthony. Size would still be an issue for us.
Some cosmetic issues with the room (316) which we addressed on our feedback sheet. Minor issues maybe but this is a 5 star hotel.
Also a bit odd not having a small refrigerator or DVD player as standard rather than having to ask the concierge for them.
A lovely hotel but, for us, rooms not up to 5 star standard.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I stayed at this hotel at the beginning of July for a business trip. From the moment I arrived I was made to feel entirely welcome. The staff were accommodating, friendly, and efficient, and never gave the impression that they were looking for anything other than to give me great service. The restaurant was well priced and the food was delicious, with again fast and friendly service. The conference facility was well laid out and efficiently serviced. All in all a good experience
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Thank you to the whole Front of House and Concierge team for looking after us so superbly during our 5 night stay this past week at OGH.

From the moment we arrived our bags were portered away and our car valeted. We were offered complimentary drinks in the gardens whilst we waited for our room as we had sailed on the early ferry. The three of us (myself, my husband and my little assistance dog) were immediatley able to begin to relax in the sumptuous surroundings overlooking the beautiful pool terrace.

Our cool air-conditioned room was wonderful. Super king sized bed, lovely balcony with a view of the port and castle, and the extra items we had pre arranged with the hotel. We were there during the heat wave so it was so lovely having the air conditioning-one of the reasons we booked this hotel!

We spent most of our vacation relaxing by the very warm heated pool on the extremely comfortable loungers which have an endless supply of clean towels provided and excellent pool service for drinks and delicious snacks.

My husband enjoyed using the gym facilities which are well stocked and clean. He did however remark the changing room was rather sweaty and airless and could also do with some air con of it's own!

The Brassiere breakfasts were a great buffet, something for everyone, and lots of à la carte cooked choices too. They even provided me with GF toast. Thank you!

The concierge team was always excellent at booking local restaurants and taxis for us, and looking after our needs. We actually hardly ventured outside of the hotel as it was so wonderful just to lie by the pool under the huge sun shades and enjoy the incredible spell of weather, soaking up the beautiful facilitates. Just a point, more loungers were needed as the weekend was very busy, and some lie flat ones would be nice. The ice cold citrus water provided by the pool was delicious.

This was a trip we really needed as I was recovering from a recent surgery. It really gave us both a chance to recharge our batteries in sumptuous surroundings.

Thank you to all the staff for making it so special. We will definitely return.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
From arrival at the front steps, it was evident that the staff were smart, polite and keen to help. Nothing was too difficult and they always appeared happy and helpful throughout the whole of our stay. Receptionists met us with a smile, the concierge went out of his way to find out information and make bookings for us and the hotel manager took a personal interest in making sure we were happy and well looked after.
It was also pleasing to note that the more experienced restaurant staff were keen to explain and help those newer to the role. Staff managed to find that delicate balance between being friendly to the customers and yet knowing their place and not being intrusive.
The bar was a little contemporary for my liking but drinks came with nibbles and could be served in other rooms, so very pleasant. Our bedroom was a standard room but it was clean, well appointed and comfortable. My only adverse comment is that the shower entrance was very awkward and narrow. There was a turn-down service at night and biscuits on the pillow!
Outside, there is a shaded patio where meals can be taken, an attractive grassed seating area with fountain and an outside swimming pool with comfortable sunbeds and a good towel service.
Highly recommended.
tripadvisor.co.uk
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
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