Old Government House Hotel & Spa
Latest Reviews
Apart from the hill it's ideally set in the middle of the town. Climbing up from the waterfront after dinner made us puff, but it was well worth the effort. Wonderful hotel still maintaining the best of old fashioned standards in a modern and friendly way. Bedrooms are lovely, restaurant and bars charming, the food's good and the staff are just wonderful. Would have no hesitation in recommending it to friends and family.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
called in for evening meal and pre dinner drinks, the service and food were very good the fish main course was excellent very fresh and cooked just right. Compliments to the chef.Very nice hotel quite central
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What an incredible experience staying at this grand establishment, so sorry that it was only for two nights. First class service, attentive and well trained staff. Beautiful room, with every creature comfort imaginable.... the bathroom toiletries are sheer bliss. Excellent restaurants - all in all, a wonderful place to stay.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
All staff, with no exceptions gave wonderful and very good service - attentive without being intrusive. Our room was beautiful and we especially liked the night light in bathroom which was very helpful in the dark to find our way!
Stunning grounds and comfortable public areas.
On asking if we could purchase some of the lovely coffee to go home, we were told it was not possible. However, we were then presented with some to take home with us.A caring hotel!! Just lovely.
Stunning grounds and comfortable public areas.
On asking if we could purchase some of the lovely coffee to go home, we were told it was not possible. However, we were then presented with some to take home with us.A caring hotel!! Just lovely.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went to the OGH for a 3 night break. We were met at the airport and quickly taken to the hotel in a car arranged by the hotel. Check-in was swift and hassle free undertaken by a friendly welcoming receptionist. In fact throughout our stay we found all the staff prepared to go the extra mile to make us feel welcome and valued guests. A smile and a friendly hello goes a long way towards making one feel at home. Our suite, at the back of the hotel was very comfortable although the view from the window was not the most inspiring. We did find that the bed was one of the most comfortable we have found in a hotel. The selection of hot and cold food at breakfast was good and again the staff could not be more helpful. Dinner in the brasserie was slightly
disappointing with a limited choice. Having recently stayed at the Bath Priory and Spa we found that the food at dinner compared unfavourably with that hotel. This was quite surprising given the number of excellent restaurants on Guernsey. In conclusion would we come again, yes for the friendliness of the staff and the comfort of the suite but no to eating in the brasserie.
disappointing with a limited choice. Having recently stayed at the Bath Priory and Spa we found that the food at dinner compared unfavourably with that hotel. This was quite surprising given the number of excellent restaurants on Guernsey. In conclusion would we come again, yes for the friendliness of the staff and the comfort of the suite but no to eating in the brasserie.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Travelled with my 2 dogs and when my dogs are welcomed I am happy! The staff are genuinely friendly, welcoming, helpful and made a fuss so that we didn't feel an intrusion. The hotel is pricey but it is the only 5 star in Guernsey. The rooms are lovely - we has a Queen suite with balcony. Dog beds and bowls provided - I've never had that kind of service at a hotel before. Beds are really comfortable and the rain shower is glorious. I would return even without the dogs but I'm not sure they'd let me! Breakfast was very tasty, afternoon tea lovely. Only criticism was dinner in the brasserie was rather average but they did have a function on so I'll give the benefit of the doubt here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I was lucky enough to enjoy afternoon tea as a birthday treat with my daughter. We are "old hands" at the afternoon tea circuit, and am so glad that we came here after visiting other establishments which, as it turns out, are not particularly good!
The whole ambience in the snug is delightful, from the lovely laundered linen down to the attentive, polite and informative waiting staff who have this serving lark down to a "t"!
The list of available teas to drink is extensive and I settled for the South African Earl Gray, which had violet in it. Lovely, smoky and with lots of citrus. Once chosen the tea pot remained topped up at regular intervals. I have never drunk so much tea in one sitting.
You must forget other less indulgent spreads when it comes to the OGH afternoon tea - this one really ticks all the boxes.
The waiter brought in the cake stand with some delicious looking cakes and pastries on board.
The sandwiches was absolutely fresh as a daisy, no curled corners here. There was a choice for me of ham, smoked salmon, chicken mayo and egg - with my daughter's veggie choice being cucumber and cream cheese, egg, cheddar and pickle and avocado.
We had toasted Guernsey Gache served in a crisp linen napkin.
Then a huge scone, with clotted cream and jam.
then the cakes - teeny chocolate eclairs, fruit tartlets, limoncella soaked sponge, shortbread biscuits and almond tarts.
We couldn't eat the cakes - as we were honestly full to bursting, but there is no problem asking the waiter to supply a lovely carry out box.
In all, we were very pleased and delighted with the whole experience and I plan to bring the rest of my family back again very soon. You will not be disappointed, and more importantly you will not be hurried through your enjoyment of the afternoon.
The whole ambience in the snug is delightful, from the lovely laundered linen down to the attentive, polite and informative waiting staff who have this serving lark down to a "t"!
The list of available teas to drink is extensive and I settled for the South African Earl Gray, which had violet in it. Lovely, smoky and with lots of citrus. Once chosen the tea pot remained topped up at regular intervals. I have never drunk so much tea in one sitting.
You must forget other less indulgent spreads when it comes to the OGH afternoon tea - this one really ticks all the boxes.
The waiter brought in the cake stand with some delicious looking cakes and pastries on board.
The sandwiches was absolutely fresh as a daisy, no curled corners here. There was a choice for me of ham, smoked salmon, chicken mayo and egg - with my daughter's veggie choice being cucumber and cream cheese, egg, cheddar and pickle and avocado.
We had toasted Guernsey Gache served in a crisp linen napkin.
Then a huge scone, with clotted cream and jam.
then the cakes - teeny chocolate eclairs, fruit tartlets, limoncella soaked sponge, shortbread biscuits and almond tarts.
We couldn't eat the cakes - as we were honestly full to bursting, but there is no problem asking the waiter to supply a lovely carry out box.
In all, we were very pleased and delighted with the whole experience and I plan to bring the rest of my family back again very soon. You will not be disappointed, and more importantly you will not be hurried through your enjoyment of the afternoon.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The good bits. A lovely Old Colonial Building in a central position . A great gym for a hotel.
The bad. On booking I was informed that due to a function taking place there would be noise and I should upgrade my sea view balcony room to be away from this noise . I paid for this upgrade prior to arrival. As we queued to check in we overheard another couple being informed that due to a function taking place their room had been upgraded free of charge to one similar to ours (we had paid for). We asked about this and eventually after being made to feel very guilty for raising this point we were given our upgrade for free like other guests. But a big point was made of this.
On check out this was raised again several times by the receptionist and we were made to feel very small.
On booking we received an email to tell us that we would receive a voucher on arrival giving us 50 pounds off our food at the hotel. This wasn't however taken off our bill (we ate in the Curry room) . I queried this and produced the email. I was told grudgingly that they would honour this just this once but vouchers changed all the time and how was she to know? This is a 5 star establishment . How about im very sorry Sir / Madam for us over looking this and a smile? Very poor and a disappointing that ultimately leaves a bad taste.
Breakfast was mixed. Our first effort we were told there is table in the middle over there for you by the stressed man on sign in. We weren't shown to table nor were we attended to until we went and asked to be, after waiting a good 15-20 minutes.
The second time was far better we were shown to our table (different head waiter) and our order taken immediately.
Rooms are ok . Shower lacks power and bathrooms small.
In all an ok stay spoilt by the extremely rude reception and mixed service.
The bad. On booking I was informed that due to a function taking place there would be noise and I should upgrade my sea view balcony room to be away from this noise . I paid for this upgrade prior to arrival. As we queued to check in we overheard another couple being informed that due to a function taking place their room had been upgraded free of charge to one similar to ours (we had paid for). We asked about this and eventually after being made to feel very guilty for raising this point we were given our upgrade for free like other guests. But a big point was made of this.
On check out this was raised again several times by the receptionist and we were made to feel very small.
On booking we received an email to tell us that we would receive a voucher on arrival giving us 50 pounds off our food at the hotel. This wasn't however taken off our bill (we ate in the Curry room) . I queried this and produced the email. I was told grudgingly that they would honour this just this once but vouchers changed all the time and how was she to know? This is a 5 star establishment . How about im very sorry Sir / Madam for us over looking this and a smile? Very poor and a disappointing that ultimately leaves a bad taste.
Breakfast was mixed. Our first effort we were told there is table in the middle over there for you by the stressed man on sign in. We weren't shown to table nor were we attended to until we went and asked to be, after waiting a good 15-20 minutes.
The second time was far better we were shown to our table (different head waiter) and our order taken immediately.
Rooms are ok . Shower lacks power and bathrooms small.
In all an ok stay spoilt by the extremely rude reception and mixed service.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is the first time visiting Guernsey.we stayed at The Old Government House hotel, was expecting it to be good, as it's rated 5*...but we were blown away!! Have stayed in many 4&5* around the world, so takes alot to impress us.The attention to detail in the rooms & the hotel was indeed first class, the staff were so friendly & helpful,& the food was fab. We will definitely return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We stayed for 4 nights early in May. The arrival was good and the lovely plaited haired hostess was most charming. Our room was 111 and whilst it was lovely it was soon evident that there was an issue. There was considerable noise coming from a function room directly below and it was clear that noise insulation did not exist. We spoke to the duty Manager who said the noise would stop at 10.30 and it did not. the next day plaited hair lady offered to move us to another sea view balcony room. We were moved to 122 which was quieter but the view was awful, please see attached images of the view of the roof. We tried to eat at the Indian restaurant on the Saturday night and were worried when we were the only people in the restaurant. Menus arrived and i asked for veggie options. I was shown 1 starter and 1 main course on the menu and that was it. I asked if there could be a variation as i was allergic to one of the ingredients and was told NO. the menu was the menu and that was it! We left. On leaving the hotel we were asked the usual question as to how was our stay. when we explained we were advised that it would be noted that next time we visited we would receive a room upgrade! In all honestly action was needed there and then and not on the arrogant assumption that we may stay again.. It is a shame we experienced what we did. the building is beautiful and some of the staff are lovely. Don't be fooled by balcony see view rooms as you will be disappointed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We've stayed here a couple of times in recent years and found it a charming and gracious establishment, with helpful staff and excellent food. The rooms are well appointed and the grounds attractive with a nice outlook.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
MY daughter has been here several times, we went for a coffee, shown into a beautiful room, ordered a cafetière , It arrive, with lovely biscuits. Coffee delish ,so much calmer and nicer rather that going to the usual coffee shops, this also was only £4 for the two of us, and got 2 cups each out of pot. Will go again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited Guernsey for the first time to attend a wedding and decided to book to stay at the island's only 5 star property. We were not disappointed.
The booking process was so refreshingly personal in a world of chains, we were able to complete a guest questionnaire to request items to be in our room before we arrived, or to ensure our newspaper was pre-ordered etc making checking in very quick indeed.
When we arrived at the hotel we were warmly greeted by the front office team who swiftly poured us glasses of sparkling wine and invited us to take a seat and enjoy the surroundings. We were offered a tour of the property which we declined due to being tired and wanting to find somewhere for dinner asap.
The hotel itself is wonderfully quaint and british. We were the youngest guests by far and I suspect that the main clientele of this property is retirees however this did not detract from our stay at all.
The staff were all utterly charming and could not do enough to help us and make sure that we were enjoying our stay. We had a drink at the bar one evening before going out to dinner and the atmosphere was lovely. We chose to eat outside the hotel during our stay as there are so many wonderful restaurants on the island and eating in a hotel restaurant is often a bit stale.
The room was beautiful, high attention to detail and we felt right at home. Breakfast was good, not great, but not the worst hotel breakfast we've ever had, and this could have been quite possibly the first place we've stayed where the toast was actually hot on arrival to the table!
We absolutely loved our stay here, and have already recommended the property to friends. I hope we will make a return visit soon - it's a real gem of a property.
The booking process was so refreshingly personal in a world of chains, we were able to complete a guest questionnaire to request items to be in our room before we arrived, or to ensure our newspaper was pre-ordered etc making checking in very quick indeed.
When we arrived at the hotel we were warmly greeted by the front office team who swiftly poured us glasses of sparkling wine and invited us to take a seat and enjoy the surroundings. We were offered a tour of the property which we declined due to being tired and wanting to find somewhere for dinner asap.
The hotel itself is wonderfully quaint and british. We were the youngest guests by far and I suspect that the main clientele of this property is retirees however this did not detract from our stay at all.
The staff were all utterly charming and could not do enough to help us and make sure that we were enjoying our stay. We had a drink at the bar one evening before going out to dinner and the atmosphere was lovely. We chose to eat outside the hotel during our stay as there are so many wonderful restaurants on the island and eating in a hotel restaurant is often a bit stale.
The room was beautiful, high attention to detail and we felt right at home. Breakfast was good, not great, but not the worst hotel breakfast we've ever had, and this could have been quite possibly the first place we've stayed where the toast was actually hot on arrival to the table!
We absolutely loved our stay here, and have already recommended the property to friends. I hope we will make a return visit soon - it's a real gem of a property.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very centrally placed in St Peter Port with good views across roofs tops, or over to the sea. Great hotel, quiet rooms, lovely linens and towels and very pleasant bathrooms. The staff are attentive, helpful and efficient. This isn't cheap, but you are getting a top notch stay, perhaps for a special occasion.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was the 3rd times we'd stayed at the OGH, we stayed over the Easter weekend. First the good - the hotel is lovely and the staff very courteous, you can't fault the service, cleanliness of rooms and little touches like Easter eggs.
I was however a little disappointed with the restaurant, where I feel the size of the portions was rather small. The food tasted good but there really wasn't nearly enough of it. I felt that it was better in previous years,
I also tried the spa this time, which was enjoyable but I would have expected there to be new, non-ripped magazines in the chill-out room. I am wondering whether economies are leading to slight degradations in quality. The hotel just didn't see quite as good as in previous years.
I was however a little disappointed with the restaurant, where I feel the size of the portions was rather small. The food tasted good but there really wasn't nearly enough of it. I felt that it was better in previous years,
I also tried the spa this time, which was enjoyable but I would have expected there to be new, non-ripped magazines in the chill-out room. I am wondering whether economies are leading to slight degradations in quality. The hotel just didn't see quite as good as in previous years.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Beautiful elegant hotel. Spotlessly clean. Amazingly caring and helpful staff. The public rooms are a delight. We thought our meals were stunningly good. My only caveat is that the bedrooms are on the small side. They are however very luxurious.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had stayed at the hotel before and they seem to get better each visit. The decor throughout the hotel is sumptuous and inviting, the rooms are beautifully appointed and the dining and entertainment facilities just beg you to use them. The hotel has free wireless which works flawlessly and there is a fitness center that rivals any stand alone fitness club. The hotel is a few minutes walk from downtown St Petersport. The staff is very helpful and go out of their way to be of assistance. This is THE place to stay in Guernsey.
The hotel is part of the Red Carnation Group, a hospitality company that specializes in high end properties.
The hotel is part of the Red Carnation Group, a hospitality company that specializes in high end properties.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
if you want good old fashioned service,this is the place for you.The rooms are lovely,
With food to die for.I recommend the' High Tea' but if you do, dont have dinner until late!Theres so much.We all felt totally relaxed from the moment we arrived.
Nothing was to much trouble. Plenty of space to relax in and only a minute walk into Town.
May I mention Harry Seepaul, he has been at the Hotel for forty years,what a wonderful guy,Andiswa( Front of House)she was fantastic,Joseph,Ken and Daniel
so helpful in the restuarant, their attention to detail made it so easy for us. But I must point out.ALL the staff were first class..We are in the process of re-booking another break.
With food to die for.I recommend the' High Tea' but if you do, dont have dinner until late!Theres so much.We all felt totally relaxed from the moment we arrived.
Nothing was to much trouble. Plenty of space to relax in and only a minute walk into Town.
May I mention Harry Seepaul, he has been at the Hotel for forty years,what a wonderful guy,Andiswa( Front of House)she was fantastic,Joseph,Ken and Daniel
so helpful in the restuarant, their attention to detail made it so easy for us. But I must point out.ALL the staff were first class..We are in the process of re-booking another break.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed at OGH over the Easter break and have to say had a great time in a laid back but highly professional Hotel. We were lucky to be upgraded to a larger room. Staff and service excellent throughout. Excellent choices at breakfast with buffet and cooked to order. We dined on two nights, once in the Curry room and once in the Brasserie with both being very good. We would return if back on Guernsey.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We spent a week here at the end of \March. Excellent hotel with great service from efficient and personable staff. Our initial room was very nice but just too small for us - we like something a little bigger and this is what we thought we had booked. So not a great start but the reception staff were brilliant and offered a choice of diffent rooms. We ate in most nights and the food was very good - |I must particularly comment on the bar staff who were marvelous. St Peters Port is on a hill but nothing unmanageable and Guernsey is a real find - we loved the whole holiday.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
One of the best hotels I have ever stayed in. The staff exceeded all expectations, ensuring we were comfortable and had everything we needed. Dinner was delicious and very reasonable priced. They provided extra touches - such as a cake for my Mother's Birthday - which made her stay. The whole experience felt very personable and special, just what you want when staying away.
I would highly recommend to anyone looking to stay in Guernsey and I cannot wait to return.
I would highly recommend to anyone looking to stay in Guernsey and I cannot wait to return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Without a doubt. This is one of the Red Carnation group hotels and I have stayed in their Montague on the Gardens hotel in Bloomsbury, London as well as the Summer Lodge in Dorset. It also made the Sunday Times one of the best companies to work for. It never fails to please. I don't really know where to start other than the hotel arranged a taxi for us as we were arriving on Good Friday for the Easter weekend, and bags were taken to the room by the concierge/porter. The staff are fantastic, the bar is delightful with live piano music at times although we did find our meal on the Friday evening was a bit cold. The classic marks of the RC group are things like sanitising the remote controls (look at some in other hotels!), different sockets for all types of electric plug, mini-fridges to borrow, shoe cleaning and a DVD player. We spent our days out of the hotel and ate elsewhere in the evenings, but breakfast is absolutely fabulous. If you haven't had the breakfast hash you must try it. There is a small criticism: I would like a bigger kettle; I would also like small mugs rather than small cups. Also connecting the DVD player actually took not only the porter but my husband too. In other words it is a two-person job. Very difficult to do if you are alone. I love it here and if we were to return, I would not consider going anywhere else on Guernsey.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My grandmother was the Governor of Guernsey's cook prior to the war and this was one of the factors in deciding to stay there. We choose Premier Holidays and flew from London City Airport, the only issue being that the flight had to go to Jersey first which was not good. However, we were upgraded to a King room with a sea view. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff and we were made to feel especially welcome.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was one of the most memorable hotels I have stayed in. My wife and I stayed three nights as part of a package through HAY TRAVEL. It was fantastic. From the minute we stepped through the door we felt very special. Our bags were whisked away to our room and we enjoyed a glass of ice cold house bubbly before joining them. The hotel team, from Henry to the room cleaning staff were very attentive. I can't find anything at all to complain about other than we wish we had stayed a little longer. The hotel didn't arrange very good weather either ... :-) Well done everyone. Your smiling assistance makes a great stay absolutely wonderful.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We've had a three night break courtesy of Premier Holidays. Flights from Southampton, an upgraded room and two complimentary lunches or dinners at the OGH or its sister, Duke of Richmond. We tried both and the food was superb in both hotels.
The OGH has the most amazing staff/guest ratio with nothing being too much trouble. Impeccable but not intrusive service and extremely friendly. Breakfasts were very good with a huge choice and the evening dinner was also very good (although nouvelle cuisine. taste versus quantity!!!!!!
whilst our upgraded room was well equipped, it was a tad small due to a Queen size bed. However a minor grouse as it is difficult to have everything right and it is a very old building.
An excellent hotel all round and totally complimentary to the attractions of Guernsey.
The OGH has the most amazing staff/guest ratio with nothing being too much trouble. Impeccable but not intrusive service and extremely friendly. Breakfasts were very good with a huge choice and the evening dinner was also very good (although nouvelle cuisine. taste versus quantity!!!!!!
whilst our upgraded room was well equipped, it was a tad small due to a Queen size bed. However a minor grouse as it is difficult to have everything right and it is a very old building.
An excellent hotel all round and totally complimentary to the attractions of Guernsey.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
