Local Reviews
In August 2012, MargieV said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
We wanted to take another short break in Guernsey with our Springer Spaniel Coco and, after finding that we couldn't find a self-catering unit, we were amazed to find out that the Old Government Hotel and their sister hotel the Duke of Richmond had been taken over by the Red Carnation Group and are dog friendly hotels. We spoke initially to the OGH who could not accommodate us on the Friday night but we were transferred by the booking office to the Duke of Richmond who were happy to book us for three nights. The DOR has been recently renovated and we were told with great joy "oh good you will be the first family with a dog - we haven't used any of our doggy stuff yet!" I didn't ask more.
We booked a junior suite with an outside terrace on the first floor of the hotel. Upon arrival the porter helped us with all our baggage and settled us into the room which was extremely comfortable with a huge king sized bed, two chairs and small table in front of the wall mounted flatscreen tv as well as a sofa and coffee table. The bathroom was exceptionally clean with a very good range of bathroom products including nail files and cotton buds as well as the normal bathing toiletries and a good selection of spotless towels and big dressing gowns. Outside through french windows was a good sized terrace with chairs, table and two loungers - sadly the poor weather meant we didn't get to use these as we would have liked to.
After a few minutes we had a knock on the door and not only was the porter there carrying a dog bed, two bowls and some treats for Coco but Sandrane who had taken our original booking had come "to meet Coco". We were also told that if we needed dog food, biscuits, etc., they could supply these for us.
We had a wonderful night's sleep although the bed they had brought us was too small for Coco so she slept on the bedding towels I had brought over with us. The next morning we were asked at reception if we were comfortable and had Coco had a good night in her bed? I confessed rather sheepishly that the bed was too small but she had slept on the floor and was immediately advised that they had larger beds and by the time we returned from our day out, a new bed was waiting for her.
On the Saturday evening we returned after 10.00 p.m. from dinner with friends to find that a wedding party were celebrating in the downstairs function room. I was expecting a lot of noise but there was absolutely no sound in our room and again we spent an undisturbed night.
We had breakfast in the room each day and this was promptly served with a good choice, freshly squeezed orange juice and wonderfully tasty croissants. We also had room service on the Sunday night and the bar staff stated it would be around 20 minutes then phoned after 25 to apologise for the delay. Again the food was delicious, very fresh and very hot.
All the staff especially the porter and reception staff were friendly, professional and really made you feel special. We will certainly return in the future and I have already recommended it to several friends who might be thinking about breaks with their (well-behaved) dogs. Cambridge Park is immediately opposite with plenty of dog walking space, there is a ten to fifteen minute walk to St. Peter Port and a local shop on the corner which opens ridiculously long hours.
We cannot recommend this hotel highly enough to anyone who wishes to visit Guernsey for a memorable stay.
We booked a junior suite with an outside terrace on the first floor of the hotel. Upon arrival the porter helped us with all our baggage and settled us into the room which was extremely comfortable with a huge king sized bed, two chairs and small table in front of the wall mounted flatscreen tv as well as a sofa and coffee table. The bathroom was exceptionally clean with a very good range of bathroom products including nail files and cotton buds as well as the normal bathing toiletries and a good selection of spotless towels and big dressing gowns. Outside through french windows was a good sized terrace with chairs, table and two loungers - sadly the poor weather meant we didn't get to use these as we would have liked to.
After a few minutes we had a knock on the door and not only was the porter there carrying a dog bed, two bowls and some treats for Coco but Sandrane who had taken our original booking had come "to meet Coco". We were also told that if we needed dog food, biscuits, etc., they could supply these for us.
We had a wonderful night's sleep although the bed they had brought us was too small for Coco so she slept on the bedding towels I had brought over with us. The next morning we were asked at reception if we were comfortable and had Coco had a good night in her bed? I confessed rather sheepishly that the bed was too small but she had slept on the floor and was immediately advised that they had larger beds and by the time we returned from our day out, a new bed was waiting for her.
On the Saturday evening we returned after 10.00 p.m. from dinner with friends to find that a wedding party were celebrating in the downstairs function room. I was expecting a lot of noise but there was absolutely no sound in our room and again we spent an undisturbed night.
We had breakfast in the room each day and this was promptly served with a good choice, freshly squeezed orange juice and wonderfully tasty croissants. We also had room service on the Sunday night and the bar staff stated it would be around 20 minutes then phoned after 25 to apologise for the delay. Again the food was delicious, very fresh and very hot.
All the staff especially the porter and reception staff were friendly, professional and really made you feel special. We will certainly return in the future and I have already recommended it to several friends who might be thinking about breaks with their (well-behaved) dogs. Cambridge Park is immediately opposite with plenty of dog walking space, there is a ten to fifteen minute walk to St. Peter Port and a local shop on the corner which opens ridiculously long hours.
We cannot recommend this hotel highly enough to anyone who wishes to visit Guernsey for a memorable stay.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2012, flyingporcupine said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
We booked a 3 nights for the price of 2 stay (£400 total) in the Sark Junior Suite at the beginning of August. The hotel has quite a few different offers to choose from and this one seemed the best one for us.
On arrival into a very plush looking reception area (I heard the hotel had been refurbished a few months before), we met the concierge who was friendly and helpful throughout the duration of our stay, and arranged for our bags to be put into the room whilst we went out (it was too early to check in). The staff on reception were also very courteous and gave good advice about taxis and where to explore in St Peter Port.
The room was absolutely amazing, one of the biggest I've stayed in with a gorgeous balcony and view over St Peter Port (Sark is the best junior suite as you have unrestricted views whilst the other two suites next door have 1-2 balcony areas in the way), a massive sofa, dark curtains and blinds, and a huge soft bed. My jaw hit the floor when I first walked in.
Interesting quirks to the room were the telephone next to the loo, and the padded walls, but for the latter, as I'm quite clumsy this suited me fine (We didn't touch the former :) ) The bed was actually 2 singles joined together but I didn't detect the join unlike in some hotel rooms. We also had a TV, kettle and safe in our room.
Room service for the suites was 2-3 times a day, so if you're in and out of your room a lot it's quite convenient (not so much if you want to stay in your room). The cleaners left the room spotless and even brought us extra teabags when we asked.
We had breakfast in our room one morning and went downstairs for the other two. Breakfast is served until 10am. The selection downstairs was pretty large, with made-to-order cooked breakfast, porridge, toast, coffee and tea.
The hotel also has a heated outdoor pool. Despite being a little cold (we were the only ones in there), we gave it a go. It was clean and quiet with towels available poolside. There were also sunloungers.
All in all, with a jaw-dropping room, impressive breakfast selection and very friendly and polite staff, there is nothing I can fault on this hotel. Give it a go - and look out for the offers when you book!
One note: for those less able to walk, the hotel is located at the top of a hill so you have to walk up and down the hill to get into town (about 10-15 mins walk). Fine for us, but not if you're not a fan of walking.
On arrival into a very plush looking reception area (I heard the hotel had been refurbished a few months before), we met the concierge who was friendly and helpful throughout the duration of our stay, and arranged for our bags to be put into the room whilst we went out (it was too early to check in). The staff on reception were also very courteous and gave good advice about taxis and where to explore in St Peter Port.
The room was absolutely amazing, one of the biggest I've stayed in with a gorgeous balcony and view over St Peter Port (Sark is the best junior suite as you have unrestricted views whilst the other two suites next door have 1-2 balcony areas in the way), a massive sofa, dark curtains and blinds, and a huge soft bed. My jaw hit the floor when I first walked in.
Interesting quirks to the room were the telephone next to the loo, and the padded walls, but for the latter, as I'm quite clumsy this suited me fine (We didn't touch the former :) ) The bed was actually 2 singles joined together but I didn't detect the join unlike in some hotel rooms. We also had a TV, kettle and safe in our room.
Room service for the suites was 2-3 times a day, so if you're in and out of your room a lot it's quite convenient (not so much if you want to stay in your room). The cleaners left the room spotless and even brought us extra teabags when we asked.
We had breakfast in our room one morning and went downstairs for the other two. Breakfast is served until 10am. The selection downstairs was pretty large, with made-to-order cooked breakfast, porridge, toast, coffee and tea.
The hotel also has a heated outdoor pool. Despite being a little cold (we were the only ones in there), we gave it a go. It was clean and quiet with towels available poolside. There were also sunloungers.
All in all, with a jaw-dropping room, impressive breakfast selection and very friendly and polite staff, there is nothing I can fault on this hotel. Give it a go - and look out for the offers when you book!
One note: for those less able to walk, the hotel is located at the top of a hill so you have to walk up and down the hill to get into town (about 10-15 mins walk). Fine for us, but not if you're not a fan of walking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, Gabriela S said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
During the last 20 years I enjoyed my stays (normally for three weeks) at the Duke of Richmond, although it is sometimes a bit tough to get there from the northern part of Germany. The staff always was and still is fantastic. I felt highly welcome and they all fulfilled my wishes just in the moment I thought about them. The food was very good as usually, however, the variety was a bit smaller than in earlier years. Nevertheless I enjoyed my time in the restaurant and in the bar. Sweet little Olga, Orlando and David were perfect, I cannot name all the others who did a real good job. I further want to say thank you to Mr. Purtill who also gave the feeling of coming home again. And, by the way, I always have the good weather. The new decorated rooms are lovely. Thank you also to the room maids who have an awful lot of work to keep everything clean and shiny.
I look forward to next year, where I hopefully still can afford to travel to the beautiful island of Guernsey for another stay in the DoR. Gabriela
I look forward to next year, where I hopefully still can afford to travel to the beautiful island of Guernsey for another stay in the DoR. Gabriela
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, welshtravellerUk said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
Just returned from a 4 night stay at this hotel from 30/08-01/09 and credit where credit is due this hotel is FANTASTIC.We have stayed at some of the best hotels in the world and this one is without a doubt up there with the best.The decor is beautiful and the service 5star,the staff make you feel very welcome. Paco,Juan and Taibert but to name a few go out of their way and exceed their duties to make your stay welcoming.
I would recommend the Alderney suite for a truly remarkable stay,this suite is large with a balcony
sun loungers and a side sea view and a 6ft bed,plenty of storage space.All rooms I believe have an evening turndown service and chocolates placed on your pillow.
Breakfast choice is extensive and excellent.Evening menu choice is ok but the food is excellent.As previously stated on reviews the hotel is on top of a fairly steep hill but we walked up and down many times without a problem.Taxi fare from seafront only £4.50 after midnight.
This was our first visit to Guernsey definitely not our last and without a doubt back to the DOR.
Honestly I can not see how anyone could be disappointed with this hotel.
I would recommend the Alderney suite for a truly remarkable stay,this suite is large with a balcony
sun loungers and a side sea view and a 6ft bed,plenty of storage space.All rooms I believe have an evening turndown service and chocolates placed on your pillow.
Breakfast choice is extensive and excellent.Evening menu choice is ok but the food is excellent.As previously stated on reviews the hotel is on top of a fairly steep hill but we walked up and down many times without a problem.Taxi fare from seafront only £4.50 after midnight.
This was our first visit to Guernsey definitely not our last and without a doubt back to the DOR.
Honestly I can not see how anyone could be disappointed with this hotel.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, Damien F said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
My girlfriend and I spent 4 nights at Duke of Richmond in mid August, and really can't speak highly enough of this hotel. From the moment we arrived, our treatment from the staff was outstanding. I cannot recall any particular names, but they made you feel special, without fawning over you constantly
The room was delightful in decor, and the bed was the most comfortable thing I've ever fallen into after a day's sightseeing / eating / being a tourist in general. The housekeeping staff did a great job as you'd hope. A nice touch that they even pop around in the evening to see if everything's ok, and offer you heir bag of goodies to replenish your stock if you want! The only downside is that we were in room 207 which is above the air conditioning / fan structure which isn't quiet by any stretch, but you get used to it.
The breakfasts were very good, nice selection of continental and cooked breakfast for those with hearty appetites. Didn't eat there in the evening, but did order sandwiches to the room one night, which arrived promptly and were decent
The pool is pretty small, but nice enough to have a splash around in.
Location wise, it's worth knowing that it's a lovely 10 minute downhill walk into town with stunning views. Of course, that means that it's pretty sharp incline on the way back, I'd not fancy that walk so much if I were elderly or pushing a buggy.
I can honestly say that this is the best hotel I have ever stayed in, and if I was heading back to Guernsey, it would be the first choice for sure
The room was delightful in decor, and the bed was the most comfortable thing I've ever fallen into after a day's sightseeing / eating / being a tourist in general. The housekeeping staff did a great job as you'd hope. A nice touch that they even pop around in the evening to see if everything's ok, and offer you heir bag of goodies to replenish your stock if you want! The only downside is that we were in room 207 which is above the air conditioning / fan structure which isn't quiet by any stretch, but you get used to it.
The breakfasts were very good, nice selection of continental and cooked breakfast for those with hearty appetites. Didn't eat there in the evening, but did order sandwiches to the room one night, which arrived promptly and were decent
The pool is pretty small, but nice enough to have a splash around in.
Location wise, it's worth knowing that it's a lovely 10 minute downhill walk into town with stunning views. Of course, that means that it's pretty sharp incline on the way back, I'd not fancy that walk so much if I were elderly or pushing a buggy.
I can honestly say that this is the best hotel I have ever stayed in, and if I was heading back to Guernsey, it would be the first choice for sure
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, Peter W said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
I don't usually leave reviews as a rule, but felt compelled to share with others what a wonderful short break my Fiancée and I recently had at the Duke of Richmond. The newly refurbished hotel is an absolute delight visually and the staff really cannot do enough to make you feel at home. In my opinion better than the OGH (which has 5 stars) - and I am a Senior Lecturer in Tourism & Hospitality, so I should have some idea! Will definitely use again if visiting the island.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, msilvestri said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
I have been a guest at the Duke of Richmond on countless occasions over the years, for a variety of events, and whether it's a private function for 100 people or a simple afternoon tea for 2 (as was my experience yeserday), the overall quality of the food and service never ceases to impress, not to mention the professionalism of their staff is what you would expect from somewhere like the Beverly Wilshire! They have recently undergone extensive upgrades which has surely contributed to a well deserved fourth star... and at four stars I would say this hotel is still underrated!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, Miss_Snooty said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
I have stayed in many different hotels in Guernsey over the years and so its true to say that I've been around a bit. However, this was my first time at the DOR and as with everything else, first impressions count. Well, in this case I was almost overwhelmed by the 'Alice Through The Looking Glass' inspired reception area. There are mirrors and chandeliers assailing you from all directions and shiny chess board tiles to walk across - you almost feel like you're trespassing through some footballer's wives boudoir. And what to make of the suit of armour guarding the entrance to the bar area? I was half expecting it to come to life and chase me up to my room shouting 'off with his head'! There was more hazard to encounter on that particular trip too - this time from the stripy carpet in the corridors. You really don't want to stay at this hotel and pop a handful of happy pills. Once I had reached the safety of my room, however, it was sumptuously furnished, although somehow I felt the room was a tad too small for all of the things in it. Unfortunately this particular room overlooked the dreaded air-con units mentioned in other reviews (which was ironically also overlooked by this usually keen eyed reviewer). First thing in the morning this boomed into life and I thought an aeroplane was taxi-ing on the roof. However, without any quibbling I was offered a room on the other side of the building and in fact this other room was also a much more sober affair of muted browns and beige. I was delighted. There were an abundance of staff here (no, not in my room, I mean generally). At one point I arrived at reception and there were 4 of them squeezed in behind the desk. I wondered if they were perhaps playing an impromptu game of sardines - particularly when the door to the office opened and a 5th prospective player appeared. Perhaps that's all there is to do in Guernsey when the weather's a bit dodgy? Breakfast was delicious, with an approximate ratio of one waiter for every two guests although I did find the tables a little bit close to each other. (Oh no not another game of sardines ??) So, would I stay there again? Possibly but only if my regular haunt was fully booked or if there was a special offer on. I didn't try the evening meals nor the cocktails but apparently both are worth checking out, so a one night stay could be on the cards another time and I might even invite all of the staff to my room...........
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, prospero13 said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
Having recently lost my wife, I decided to take a solo cycling week in Guernsey this September. (Hotel-wise, my sojourn in Jersey last year was an absolute disaster.)The Duke of Richmond was the ONLY hotel on the island prepared to accommodate a single traveller. This was easily the best hotel in my experience -and I've been to many, home and abroad. The staff were attentive, the food delicious, and the facilities excellent. One thing that struck me forcibly was the fact that the hotel personnel addressed me by name from the day after I arrived. And not just Reception. They even found a well-appointed room for my bicycle !!! I shall certainly make The Duke of Richmond an annual fixture.Chris P
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2012, rasenite said about Duke of Richmond Hotel
We stayed at the DOR in late august 2012. We picked the Hotel because it was close to the centre of the Town. In this respect it was a bit of a disappointment as the town centre was a good walk down hill (although the views on the way were terrific).
People we met at the Hotel said it had recently been refurbished and indeed everything seemed shinny and new. The bar was excellent, even if some of the drinks were a little expensive and a service charge was added to bar snacks (which I thought was a little on the tight side). Restaurant food was average however the service was excellent with very attentive staff. The room was very comfortable and clean.
We will go back!
People we met at the Hotel said it had recently been refurbished and indeed everything seemed shinny and new. The bar was excellent, even if some of the drinks were a little expensive and a service charge was added to bar snacks (which I thought was a little on the tight side). Restaurant food was average however the service was excellent with very attentive staff. The room was very comfortable and clean.
We will go back!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk