Macdonald Bear Hotel
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Summary of reviewsThe Macdonald Bear Hotel, located in the heart of the picturesque village of Woodstock, enjoys a stellar reputation for its prime location. The proximity to Blenheim Palace and the accessibility to local shops, restaurants and bars make it an ideal base for exploring the Cotswolds and Oxford. The historic and charming building fits seamlessly into the beautiful village setting, enhancing the overall ambiance. Ample parking and good bus connections to Oxford further add to its appeal, making it a top choice for travelers.
The breakfast experience at the hotel garners mixed reviews. Many guests find the breakfast delicious with fresh, well-cooked meals and a generous spread offering a variety of options, including commendable full English and vegetarian breakfasts. Table service adds a nice touch to the experience. However, some guests feel the breakfast is overpriced with extra charges for certain items and note issues with slow service and inconsistent food quality.
Dinner at the hotel also receives mixed feedback. While some guests enjoy the high-quality, well-prepared food with specific praise for dishes like fresh haddock, others criticize the limited, overpriced menu and slow service. The dining ambiance and noise levels add to the mixed reviews, although some diners find the environment pleasant.
Rooms at the Macdonald Bear Hotel vary in quality. Guests often praise the spacious, comfortable rooms with good amenities. Beautifully decorated and clean rooms with luxurious touches such as Elemis products contribute to a pleasant stay. However, some rooms are noted as tired and in need of refurbishment with issues like flickering lights, outdated decor and worn fixtures. The absence of air conditioning in certain rooms and occasional noise from adjacent rooms are also mentioned. Nevertheless, many guests appreciate the excellent room service and the charming ambiance.
Cleanliness at the hotel is generally appreciated with many guests highlighting the spotless conditions of the rooms and common areas. However, there are isolated reports of issues such as cobwebs, dusty rooms and stained carpets, indicating room for improvement in maintenance.
The staff at the hotel receive mostly positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness with many guests commending their courteous and attentive service. Although there are some reports of unwelcoming behavior and slow, inattentive service, the overall impression is that the staff significantly contribute to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
WiFi service at the hotel is another mixed aspect with some guests finding it adequate and free, while others experience issues with connectivity and reliability, particularly in rooms located in the courtyard area.
Parking is convenient and often praised for its availability and ease of access. The presence of free EV car charging is a notable benefit. However, the £10 per night parking fee is a point of contention for some guests.
Family stays at the hotel are generally pleasant with comfortable and accessible family suites. The hotel proves to be a favorable choice for families with the staff’s efforts positively impacting the overall experience.
The beds receive a range of feedback with many guests praising the comfort and size, particularly the king-size and super king-size beds and the exceptionally comfortable four-poster beds. However, some guests find the beds too firm or saggy and taller individuals may find them too short.
While the hotel boasts several positive aspects, its four-star rating is debated by some guests. The characterful building and courteous staff are appreciated, but the lack of certain amenities and the high cost not always matching the quality provided are areas for improvement. Business travelers find the hotel’s central location and business amenities suitable for meetings and conferences, although specifics on the business experience are limited.
In summary, the Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a charming, characterful stay with a prime location and generally positive service. However, improvements in breakfast and dinner offerings, room maintenance and certain amenities are needed to fully meet the expectations of a four-star establishment.
Categories
The breakfast experience at the hotel garners mixed reviews. Many guests find the breakfast delicious with fresh, well-cooked meals and a generous spread offering a variety of options, including commendable full English and vegetarian breakfasts. Table service adds a nice touch to the experience. However, some guests feel the breakfast is overpriced with extra charges for certain items and note issues with slow service and inconsistent food quality.
Dinner at the hotel also receives mixed feedback. While some guests enjoy the high-quality, well-prepared food with specific praise for dishes like fresh haddock, others criticize the limited, overpriced menu and slow service. The dining ambiance and noise levels add to the mixed reviews, although some diners find the environment pleasant.
Rooms at the Macdonald Bear Hotel vary in quality. Guests often praise the spacious, comfortable rooms with good amenities. Beautifully decorated and clean rooms with luxurious touches such as Elemis products contribute to a pleasant stay. However, some rooms are noted as tired and in need of refurbishment with issues like flickering lights, outdated decor and worn fixtures. The absence of air conditioning in certain rooms and occasional noise from adjacent rooms are also mentioned. Nevertheless, many guests appreciate the excellent room service and the charming ambiance.
Cleanliness at the hotel is generally appreciated with many guests highlighting the spotless conditions of the rooms and common areas. However, there are isolated reports of issues such as cobwebs, dusty rooms and stained carpets, indicating room for improvement in maintenance.
The staff at the hotel receive mostly positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness with many guests commending their courteous and attentive service. Although there are some reports of unwelcoming behavior and slow, inattentive service, the overall impression is that the staff significantly contribute to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
WiFi service at the hotel is another mixed aspect with some guests finding it adequate and free, while others experience issues with connectivity and reliability, particularly in rooms located in the courtyard area.
Parking is convenient and often praised for its availability and ease of access. The presence of free EV car charging is a notable benefit. However, the £10 per night parking fee is a point of contention for some guests.
Family stays at the hotel are generally pleasant with comfortable and accessible family suites. The hotel proves to be a favorable choice for families with the staff’s efforts positively impacting the overall experience.
The beds receive a range of feedback with many guests praising the comfort and size, particularly the king-size and super king-size beds and the exceptionally comfortable four-poster beds. However, some guests find the beds too firm or saggy and taller individuals may find them too short.
While the hotel boasts several positive aspects, its four-star rating is debated by some guests. The characterful building and courteous staff are appreciated, but the lack of certain amenities and the high cost not always matching the quality provided are areas for improvement. Business travelers find the hotel’s central location and business amenities suitable for meetings and conferences, although specifics on the business experience are limited.
In summary, the Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a charming, characterful stay with a prime location and generally positive service. However, improvements in breakfast and dinner offerings, room maintenance and certain amenities are needed to fully meet the expectations of a four-star establishment.
Luxury Hotel
A historic hotel offering a luxurious experience with well-appointed rooms and dining options.
Historic Hotel
Built as a coaching inn in the 13th century, The Bear Hotel exudes warmth and atmosphere with its ivy façade, exposed beams, and open fireplaces. It has been a favorite haunt for romantic couples, including Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.
Year erected: 1200
Answers last updated by Macdonald Bear Hotel
Hotel for Honeymoon
This historic hotel in Woodstock features charming rooms, a restaurant, and a central location. Its traditional ambiance and proximity to local attractions make it a great choice for a romantic stay.
Family Friendly Hotel
Located in Woodstock, it provides a charming base for families to explore Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Boutique-style Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
To whom is your hotel/accommodation accessible?
People who use a wheelchair People who are deaf People who are blind People with autism People with asthma
People who use a wheelchair People who are deaf People who are blind People with autism People with asthma
Is there level-access route (might include lifts) from the road to the rooms? Yes, to certain rooms
Please specify: Ground Floor Rooms are available
Please specify: Ground Floor Rooms are available
Are there any facilities that guests who use a wheelchair cannot reach? Yes
Please specify: Some Function Rooms
Show more...Please specify: Some Function Rooms
4-Star Hotel
Information provided by the hotelMacdonald Bear Hotel is one of the finest 4-star hotels in Oxfordshire and offers a beautiful slice of luxury in the heart of the countryside. Set in Woodstock, in what was once a 13th century coaching inn, our hotel combines history and culture with exceptional facilities. With direct access to the historic city of Oxford, our hotel is a popular choice for leisure breaks, business and weddings.
Our hotel is a perfect venue for celebrations, events and conferences; we boast superb hotel accommodation, stylish meeting and function rooms, peaceful views over the courtyard and stunning period features.
Our hotel in Oxfordshire is perfect for a relaxing retreat. Roam the historic city of Oxford and marvel in the dreaming spires or linger in the city's many shops and museums. Once you've finished exploring - we recommend a visit to our award-winning restaurant and bar for the finest of fares and a well deserved nightcap.
Our hotel is a perfect venue for celebrations, events and conferences; we boast superb hotel accommodation, stylish meeting and function rooms, peaceful views over the courtyard and stunning period features.
Our hotel in Oxfordshire is perfect for a relaxing retreat. Roam the historic city of Oxford and marvel in the dreaming spires or linger in the city's many shops and museums. Once you've finished exploring - we recommend a visit to our award-winning restaurant and bar for the finest of fares and a well deserved nightcap.
Guest Reviews
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Woodstock, 'Macdonald Bear Hotel' excels in location, offering unparalleled proximity to Blenheim Palace, a mere short walk away. The charming surroundings of Woodstock make it an ideal base for exploring the Cotswolds and Oxford. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's convenience for local shops, restaurants and bars, all within easy reach. The historic and characterful building adds to the overall ambiance, fitting seamlessly into the beautiful and atmospheric village setting. Whether visiting for events at Blenheim Palace or simply enjoying the quaint village life, this hotel stands out as a prime location for travelers seeking a blend of accessibility and charm. Ample parking and good bus connections to Oxford further enhance its appeal, making it an excellent choice for exploring the wider region.
At the Macdonald Bear Hotel, breakfast experiences appear to be a mixed bag according to guest reviews. Many guests praised the breakfast, describing it as delicious, excellent and even superb. Specific highlights included fresh, well-cooked meals, a very generous spread with lots of variety and a great selection in the buffet. The full English breakfast and the vegetarian options received notable commendations and some guests enjoyed table service which added a nice touch.
However, there were also several criticisms. A recurring theme was the price with many finding the breakfast to be overpriced with extra charges for certain items. Service was another point of contention, often described as slow or disorganized with reports of staff being inexperienced or inattentive. Some guests mentioned that their breakfast was cold, lacked key components or simply wasn't cooked to the expected standard.
In terms of variety, while some appreciated the various options, others felt the selection was limited or "old fashioned," and noted issues like dry or overcooked items. Overall, despite the positive comments, there were enough criticisms to suggest that the breakfast experience at Macdonald Bear Hotel can be inconsistent.
Dinner at the Macdonald Bear Hotel receives mixed reviews from guests. Many affirm that both dinner and breakfast are excellent with some specifically praising the fresh haddock, delicious cooked meals and a superb evening meal. The food quality is often described as "lovely" and "well-prepared," making dining experiences enjoyable for some.
However, there are significant drawbacks as well. Several guests note that the dinner menu is sparse, limited and overpriced, suggesting that better food options can be found in the village or at other hotels. Service speed is frequently criticized with many experiencing slow and inattentive service. Additionally, the menu sometimes doesn’t live up to expectations with instances of the food being overcooked, basic or even poor in quality.
The ambiance and environment of the dining areas receive mixed feedback as well with some diners noting that the dining room feels outdated and that noise levels can be high. The restaurant service is inconsistent with some experiencing excellent service, while others describe it as appalling and inadequate.
In conclusion, while some guests at the Macdonald Bear Hotel find the dining experience delightful and the food to be of high quality, others are less impressed by the limited menu, slow service and high prices.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a mixed experience when it comes to their rooms. Guests frequently highlight the spaciousness, comfort and good amenities of many rooms. It's evident that some rooms are beautifully decorated and clean with luxurious touches such as Elemis products and comfortable beds, making stays pleasant and cozy. Ground floor rooms and suites, in particular, receive praise for their ample space and well-appointed features. Upgraded rooms and rooms with traditional English decor maintain the charming aesthetic of the hotel and are noted for their comfort and cleanliness.
However, the hotel also faces several criticisms. Some rooms are described as tired, in need of refurbishment and suffering from issues such as flickering lights, outdated decor and worn fixtures like tatty curtains and carpets. A number of guests noted problems with cleanliness, including dust and occasional dead insects. The lack of air conditioning in certain rooms made them unbearably hot for some guests even with fans provided. Noise from adjacent rooms and creaky floorboards also impacted the comfort for a few visitors.
Despite some shortcomings, the hotel's staff is often acknowledged for providing excellent room service and for making the stay feel special with little touches like bathrobes and quality bathroom amenities. While some rooms do fall short, especially considering the price, many guests find their stays enjoyable due to the charming ambiance and comfort of the well-maintained rooms.
The beds at the Macdonald Bear Hotel receive a range of feedback from guests with a significant number of positive comments highlighting the comfort and size of the beds. Many guests praise the comfort of the king-size and super king-size beds, noting them as very comfortable, incredibly comfy and even superbly luxurious. Soft and lovely pillows, combined with spacious and large beds, contribute to a restful night's sleep for many visitors. Guests particularly appreciate the exceptionally comfortable four-poster beds.
However, some guests experienced discomfort with beds described as small, firm or saggy. Several reviews mention the beds could be bigger and that tall individuals may find them too short. There are also a few reports of beds being unlevel, leading to a less-than-ideal sleeping experience. Despite these issues, the general consensus points towards a predominantly positive experience regarding the comfort and quality of the beds at the hotel, especially in rooms featuring larger bed sizes.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel features consistently clean rooms with many guests highlighting spotless, immaculate and very clean conditions. The rooms are described as comfortable and spacious with several newly refurbished and beautifully decorated. Cleanliness in common areas is frequently noted with the hotel maintaining a generally welcoming and clean atmosphere.
However, there are mentions of some rooms needing refurbishment and improvements in maintenance. Issues such as cobwebs, dusty rooms, dirty grout between bathroom tiles and dated decor were pointed out. Guests noted specific problems, including mold in the bedroom, sticky bathroom floors and stained carpets, indicating room for improvement in overall cleanliness and upkeep.
Despite a few negative reviews, the hotel’s cleaning staff are often praised for their efforts, ensuring that many rooms remain in good, clean condition throughout guests' stays. The experience varies with some rooms and facilities requiring attention to maintain a consistent standard of cleanliness.
Visitors to the Macdonald Bear Hotel often have mixed but generally positive impressions of the staff. On the sunny side, guests frequently note the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff with many describing them as courteous, attentive and efficient. The reception team often receives specific praise for their welcoming demeanor and professionalism with some individual staff members being highlighted for exceptional service. The housekeeping and dining teams have also been commended for their warm and accommodating nature.
However, some reviews indicate variability in staff interactions. There are reports of unwelcoming and rude behavior, particularly from certain reception and restaurant staff. Instances of slow or inattentive service, especially during breakfast, are noted. The visible strain on the staff due to inadequate numbers is mentioned, affecting the overall service experience. Despite these issues, many guests found the staff to be a defining positive element of their stay, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
In summary, while the staff at the Macdonald Bear Hotel are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, inconsistencies in service and occasional inattentiveness have been highlighted by some guests. Nonetheless, the overall sense is that the staff contribute positively to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel has received mixed reviews regarding its WiFi service. Some guests highlighted that the WiFi was good with adequate connections and free unlimited access. A few noted that both the WiFi and the hot water were strong, making their stay comfortable. However, many guests experienced significant issues with the internet. Common complaints included poor or weak WiFi quality, difficulty logging in and the WiFi not working at all in some rooms, particularly in the courtyard area. Issues with the WiFi stopped working partway through stays were also mentioned. Overall, while some found the WiFi service satisfactory, others encountered substantial problems with connectivity and reliability.
The parking situation at Macdonald Bear Hotel presents a mix of convenience and challenges. Many visitors appreciate the availability of car parking on-site, noting it is good, spacious and very handy. It is often described as very convenient with easy access and plentiful spaces, providing a comfortable and stress-free arrival. The presence of free EV car charging adds to the perks for electric vehicle owners. Guests have mentioned that ample and free parking spaces are a big advantage and many found it beneficial and a plus point of their stay.
However, there's a significant downside for some—parking is not free for everyone. Many reviews highlight a recurring theme of a £10 per night parking fee, which has been a point of contention. Some guests felt it was expensive, unnecessary and even scandalous. Despite the added cost, others rationalized it as worth the convenience.
When the hotel is busy, parking can become a bit of a nightmare with limited spaces leading to chaotic and challenging parking experiences. There are mentions of trouble finding a spot upon arrival and the need for more advance communication about the parking situation. In contrast, some relief comes from the possibility of reserving a spot ahead of time.
Overall, while the parking at Macdonald Bear Hotel typically receives praise for its convenience and availability, the additional charges and occasional lack of space can detract from the otherwise positive experience.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel proves to be a pleasant destination for family stays, offering a range of family-friendly amenities that cater to guests of all ages. The property features comfortable family suites and ground-floor family rooms, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all. Guests often emphasize the delight of sharing a family breakfast, which stands out as a charming aspect of the experience. The hotel is recognized as a good spot for creating treasured family memories, making it a favorable choice for those traveling with loved ones. Despite occasional minor issues, the staff's dedication to addressing guest concerns contributes to an overall positive family experience.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a mixed experience for guests regarding its four-star rating, facilities and services. The hotel is situated in the center of town, featuring good-sized rooms and a cosy atmosphere. Guests appreciate its character and intriguing setting, along with courteous staff and several nice features within the property.
However, many reviews indicate that it does not consistently meet the expectations of a four-star hotel. Some guests find the rooms quite basic and in need of updating and are surprised by the lack of small details such as an informational park within the room and the absence of a fridge. The food and service do not always align with the four-star standard and the main restaurant is often described as empty and over-priced.
Despite its excellent building with historical charm, the perceived value for money is lacking for many visitors due to the high cost not matching the quality provided. Overall, while the Macdonald Bear Hotel does have its merits, it also has areas that require improvement to fully meet the standards expected of a four-star establishment.
Situated in a central location ideal for business travelers, the Macdonald Bear Hotel stands out as a perfect choice for those on corporate trips. Renowned for its great venue for business meetings, the hotel offers a range of business amenities, including a well-equipped business center and multiple conference venues. Meeting rooms are also available, catering to various professional needs. Overall, the hotel's facilities make it highly convenient for business stays and corporate interactions. While some guests have noted a transactional atmosphere, the convenience and suitability of the hotel's offerings for business purposes make it a reliable option for business associates.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel, an older property, offers mixed experiences when it comes to accessibility for guests with disabilities. On the positive side, there are accessible rooms available on request, including ground floor options and rooms with certain accessible features. Parking is accessible and can be secured specifically for disabled guests, providing ease for those with impaired mobility.
However, some reviews point out key shortcomings. The accessible rooms are not always fully wheelchair-friendly and the absence of lifts in the hotel poses challenges, especially when dealing with stairs and luggage. Requests for rooms with roll-in showers for wheelchair users could enhance the overall experience.
Overall, while the hotel strives to meet reasonable service demands for additional accessibility needs, it might require some improvements to fully cater to guests with more specific mobility requirements.
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Woodstock, the Macdonald Bear Hotel stands as a testament to historical grandeur and charm. This characterful establishment, often described as an archetype English country hotel, exudes an old-world charm that transports visitors back in time. Its original features and sympathetic decor amplify the rich history that the building carries, making it a significant landmark in the area.
Visitors are enchanted by the beautiful historic building, which reflects its interesting history and distinctive charm. The hotel retains its original historic elements, ensuring guests a safe and authentic experience that resonates with its 13th-century roots. Reviews often highlight the wonderful welcoming feel and the vibrant ambiance suggests a well-maintained property steeped in history.
The Bear Hotel, full of character, offers a nostalgic getaway with its lovely charming old building. Located centrally in Woodstock, it provides not just a stay but an immersive journey into the historical essence of the region. Its quirky and quaint features, along with the historical coaching inn feel, make it a unique destination for those seeking to embrace England's historical heritage.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel exudes a luxurious charm with its historical property and exquisite ambiance. Guests frequently highlight the blissful experience of a luxury break here with the atmosphere and rooms contributing significantly to the overall luxurious feel. The hotel boasts luxurious king-size beds and high-quality luxury-brand toiletries, enhancing the comfort of the stay. The breakfast also receives commendations for its luxury quality. Visitors appreciate the warm and friendly reception, further enriched by the character of the old building with its low beams and fireplaces, adding to the inviting and luxurious atmosphere.
Macdonald Bear Hotel is an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic escape. Nestled in a village that offers great vibes for a romantic getaway, the hotel itself exudes charm and character. Guests have celebrated significant milestones such as honeymoons and wedding anniversaries here, highlighting its special appeal. The candle-lit setting and quaint, romantic rooms provide a perfect backdrop for a romantic and relaxing break. Each room boasts lovely features, adding to the overall ambiance of this quirky and charming hotel.
The Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a highly accommodating and welcoming environment for guests with dogs. The hotel is noted for its dog-friendly rooms, particularly those located in the courtyard, which are deemed to be the best for those traveling with pets. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches like dog baskets and treats, making their pets feel as welcomed as they are. Dogs are allowed in the bar area and can even join their owners for breakfast there, which many found to be a great convenience.
The staff are very accommodating when it comes to pets, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay. The hotel's dog menu is a thoughtful addition, adding to the welcoming ambiance for canine companions. However, there is a nightly charge of £15 per dog and some guests felt this should be more clearly communicated. Overall, the hotel is praised for its safe environment and friendly welcome for dogs, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without any hassle.
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Location
Breakfast
However, there were also several criticisms. A recurring theme was the price with many finding the breakfast to be overpriced with extra charges for certain items. Service was another point of contention, often described as slow or disorganized with reports of staff being inexperienced or inattentive. Some guests mentioned that their breakfast was cold, lacked key components or simply wasn't cooked to the expected standard.
In terms of variety, while some appreciated the various options, others felt the selection was limited or "old fashioned," and noted issues like dry or overcooked items. Overall, despite the positive comments, there were enough criticisms to suggest that the breakfast experience at Macdonald Bear Hotel can be inconsistent.
Dinner
However, there are significant drawbacks as well. Several guests note that the dinner menu is sparse, limited and overpriced, suggesting that better food options can be found in the village or at other hotels. Service speed is frequently criticized with many experiencing slow and inattentive service. Additionally, the menu sometimes doesn’t live up to expectations with instances of the food being overcooked, basic or even poor in quality.
The ambiance and environment of the dining areas receive mixed feedback as well with some diners noting that the dining room feels outdated and that noise levels can be high. The restaurant service is inconsistent with some experiencing excellent service, while others describe it as appalling and inadequate.
In conclusion, while some guests at the Macdonald Bear Hotel find the dining experience delightful and the food to be of high quality, others are less impressed by the limited menu, slow service and high prices.
Rooms
However, the hotel also faces several criticisms. Some rooms are described as tired, in need of refurbishment and suffering from issues such as flickering lights, outdated decor and worn fixtures like tatty curtains and carpets. A number of guests noted problems with cleanliness, including dust and occasional dead insects. The lack of air conditioning in certain rooms made them unbearably hot for some guests even with fans provided. Noise from adjacent rooms and creaky floorboards also impacted the comfort for a few visitors.
Despite some shortcomings, the hotel's staff is often acknowledged for providing excellent room service and for making the stay feel special with little touches like bathrobes and quality bathroom amenities. While some rooms do fall short, especially considering the price, many guests find their stays enjoyable due to the charming ambiance and comfort of the well-maintained rooms.
Beds
However, some guests experienced discomfort with beds described as small, firm or saggy. Several reviews mention the beds could be bigger and that tall individuals may find them too short. There are also a few reports of beds being unlevel, leading to a less-than-ideal sleeping experience. Despite these issues, the general consensus points towards a predominantly positive experience regarding the comfort and quality of the beds at the hotel, especially in rooms featuring larger bed sizes.
Cleanliness
However, there are mentions of some rooms needing refurbishment and improvements in maintenance. Issues such as cobwebs, dusty rooms, dirty grout between bathroom tiles and dated decor were pointed out. Guests noted specific problems, including mold in the bedroom, sticky bathroom floors and stained carpets, indicating room for improvement in overall cleanliness and upkeep.
Despite a few negative reviews, the hotel’s cleaning staff are often praised for their efforts, ensuring that many rooms remain in good, clean condition throughout guests' stays. The experience varies with some rooms and facilities requiring attention to maintain a consistent standard of cleanliness.
Staff
However, some reviews indicate variability in staff interactions. There are reports of unwelcoming and rude behavior, particularly from certain reception and restaurant staff. Instances of slow or inattentive service, especially during breakfast, are noted. The visible strain on the staff due to inadequate numbers is mentioned, affecting the overall service experience. Despite these issues, many guests found the staff to be a defining positive element of their stay, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
In summary, while the staff at the Macdonald Bear Hotel are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, inconsistencies in service and occasional inattentiveness have been highlighted by some guests. Nonetheless, the overall sense is that the staff contribute positively to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
Wi-Fi
Parking
However, there's a significant downside for some—parking is not free for everyone. Many reviews highlight a recurring theme of a £10 per night parking fee, which has been a point of contention. Some guests felt it was expensive, unnecessary and even scandalous. Despite the added cost, others rationalized it as worth the convenience.
When the hotel is busy, parking can become a bit of a nightmare with limited spaces leading to chaotic and challenging parking experiences. There are mentions of trouble finding a spot upon arrival and the need for more advance communication about the parking situation. In contrast, some relief comes from the possibility of reserving a spot ahead of time.
Overall, while the parking at Macdonald Bear Hotel typically receives praise for its convenience and availability, the additional charges and occasional lack of space can detract from the otherwise positive experience.
Family
4 Star
However, many reviews indicate that it does not consistently meet the expectations of a four-star hotel. Some guests find the rooms quite basic and in need of updating and are surprised by the lack of small details such as an informational park within the room and the absence of a fridge. The food and service do not always align with the four-star standard and the main restaurant is often described as empty and over-priced.
Despite its excellent building with historical charm, the perceived value for money is lacking for many visitors due to the high cost not matching the quality provided. Overall, while the Macdonald Bear Hotel does have its merits, it also has areas that require improvement to fully meet the standards expected of a four-star establishment.
Business
Accessible
However, some reviews point out key shortcomings. The accessible rooms are not always fully wheelchair-friendly and the absence of lifts in the hotel poses challenges, especially when dealing with stairs and luggage. Requests for rooms with roll-in showers for wheelchair users could enhance the overall experience.
Overall, while the hotel strives to meet reasonable service demands for additional accessibility needs, it might require some improvements to fully cater to guests with more specific mobility requirements.
Historic
Visitors are enchanted by the beautiful historic building, which reflects its interesting history and distinctive charm. The hotel retains its original historic elements, ensuring guests a safe and authentic experience that resonates with its 13th-century roots. Reviews often highlight the wonderful welcoming feel and the vibrant ambiance suggests a well-maintained property steeped in history.
The Bear Hotel, full of character, offers a nostalgic getaway with its lovely charming old building. Located centrally in Woodstock, it provides not just a stay but an immersive journey into the historical essence of the region. Its quirky and quaint features, along with the historical coaching inn feel, make it a unique destination for those seeking to embrace England's historical heritage.
Luxury
Romantic
Dog Friendly
The staff are very accommodating when it comes to pets, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay. The hotel's dog menu is a thoughtful addition, adding to the welcoming ambiance for canine companions. However, there is a nightly charge of £15 per dog and some guests felt this should be more clearly communicated. Overall, the hotel is praised for its safe environment and friendly welcome for dogs, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without any hassle.
No, Macdonald Bear Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Macdonald Bear Hotel.
Yes, Macdonald Bear Hotel welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Macdonald Bear Hotel.
No, Macdonald Bear Hotel doesn't have a gym.
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