The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale

Ashbourne 53.05437000, -1.78622200 , Dovedale, Ashbourne (Show on Map)
8.1
Very Good


Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsThe Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale enjoys high praise for its idyllic and picturesque setting in the Derbyshire countryside, which provides a tranquil and scenic retreat for guests. Nestled at the entrance of Dovedale, it is a prime location for walking enthusiasts, offering immediate access to breathtaking views and local trails in the Peak District.

Guests frequently commend the excellent service provided by the friendly and attentive staff, enhancing the welcoming and comfortable atmosphere of the hotel. The accommodations are noted for being clean, well-maintained and spacious, often featuring charming modern decor and picturesque countryside views. The comfortable beds stand out as a highlight, ensuring a restful stay for visitors.

The culinary offerings at the hotel receive positive feedback, especially the breakfast experience, which is lauded for its quality, variety and use of local produce. The full English breakfast, in particular, is a favorite among guests. Dinner is also well-regarded with high-quality and delicious meals, though some guests would appreciate more menu variety, particularly for those with specific dietary needs.

Cleanliness is consistently emphasized with both public areas and rooms being described as spotless and well-maintained. The hotel's dedication to hygiene and guest comfort is evident and staff efforts to maintain a clean environment are well-received.

However, the hotel faces some areas for improvement. Guests have highlighted issues with the Wi-Fi, describing it as weak and unreliable, especially in individual rooms. Parking, while generally accessible and free, can be limited and sometimes insufficient for all guests' vehicles, leading to occasional congestion. Moreover, the hotel’s facilities and decor could benefit from updates to address areas that appear dated and worn.

Despite these minor drawbacks, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale delivers a positive and memorable experience, marked by excellent service, comfortable accommodations, quality dining and an unbeatable location. The historic charm and beautiful surroundings make it a favored choice for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside.
Show more
Categories
Historic Hotel

Hotel for Honeymoon

Family Friendly Hotel

Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

3-Star Hotel

Room Types
Classic Double Room Double rooms have an en-suite bathroom and shower, and a hospitality tray with electric kettle, as well as 'Liberty & Green' amenity products , trouser press and complimentary bottles of water

Superior King or Twin Room with View The superior rooms are larger with small seating areas. Many rooms also have spa baths. Most rooms have views of the Dovedale valley or the hotel gardens.

Classic Double Room with View Many classic rooms have views of the Dovedale valley or the hotel gardens. All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities with coffee bags from The Little Coffee Bag company, complimentary bottled still water, Ringtons biscuits, luxury refillable toiletries, TV and an alarm/radio.

Superior King Room with View The superior rooms are larger with small seating areas. Many rooms also have spa baths. Most rooms have views of the Dovedale valley or the hotel gardens.

King Room with Garden View Featuring free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The double room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit has 1 bed.

Twin Room with Garden View Offering free toiletries, this twin room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The twin room offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit has 2 beds.

King Room with Mountain View Providing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The double room provides a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Twin Room with Mountain View Providing free toiletries, this twin room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The twin room provides a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.

Courtyard Double (Dog Friendly) Offering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The double room offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as an inner courtyard view. The unit offers 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
8.1
Very Good
Location
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale is nestled in a stunning Derbyshire countryside, providing guests with a tranquil and picturesque setting that is ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. Located right at the entrance of Dovedale, the hotel offers immediate access to breathtaking views and scenic walks. The surrounding landscape is consistently praised as magnificent with the nearby Thorpe Cloud, stepping stones and expansive hills adding to its charm.

The hotel's beautiful grounds and its proximity to local trails make it a perfect spot for walking enthusiasts and those looking to explore the Peak District. Guests frequently describe the location as superb, idyllic and a ramblers' paradise. The peaceful and quiet atmosphere, combined with the spectacular views from rooms and public areas, contributes to a serene experience.

Beyond its prime location, the hotel also receives commendations for its friendly and efficient staff, comfortable accommodations and high-standard cuisine. The seamless blend of a beautiful setting and excellent service makes The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale a favored choice for visitors looking to indulge in the natural beauty and serenity of Dovedale and the Peak District.

Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale receives an overwhelmingly positive response from guests. Many highlight the excellent quality and taste of the full English breakfast with frequent mentions of freshly cooked and well-presented dishes. Guests appreciate the use of local produce, particularly enjoying the tasty bacon and sausages.

The breakfast offerings are described as abundant with a good variety of options including both continental and traditional English fare. Well-organized and attentive service adds to the positive dining experience. Several reviews praise the breakfast for being filling and hearty, while also mentioning the aesthetic presentation of the food.

Despite a few critiques concerning occasional slow service or food not being as hot as preferred, the general consensus is that the breakfast is impressive and satisfying. Guests also commend the beautiful location and views from the breakfast room, which enhance the dining experience.

Overall, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale delivers a delightful breakfast that effectively combines quality, variety and excellent service, making it a highlight of the stay for many visitors.

Dinner
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale offers an evening dining experience that receives commendations for its quality and taste. Guests frequently highlight the "excellent," "wonderful," and "amazing" food, whether enjoying meals in the bar or the main restaurant. The chef’s proficiency is consistently noted with adjectives such as "first class" and "exceptional" used to describe the caliber of the dishes.

However, some diners found the menu options to be limited, lacking variation over multiple days and occasionally uninspiring for those with specific dietary needs such as vegetarians or individuals with allergies. The set dinner menus and supplementary charges for specific choices could be restrictive for some guests, impacting the overall dining experience.

Despite these limitations, the meals are generally well-prepared, delicious and presented beautifully. Most patrons were pleased with the bar meals and restaurant offerings, even though they occasionally felt the prices were on the higher side relative to the food quality. Service was frequently praised for being friendly, polite and accommodating with staff handling the constraints imposed by the current environment effectively.

Dining at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale appears to be a largely positive experience marked by high-quality food and excellent service, though diners may appreciate more variety and flexibility in the menu.

Rooms
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale has garnered praise for its well-maintained and spacious rooms, which frequently impress guests with their cleanliness and size. Many reviewers were particularly pleased with the charming, modern decor of the rooms, noting that they are often large and offer a comfortable stay. Some rooms come with delightful views of the surrounding countryside, enhancing the tranquil experience. The comfortable beds and attractive lounges were commonly mentioned as highlights, providing guests with a restful and enjoyable visit. The hotel's historical charm and scenic setting also contribute positively to the ambiance of the rooms.

However, there were occasional criticisms related to room decor and furniture with some guests noting that they were a bit dated and could benefit from updating. A few rooms were described as being on the cooler side or lacking in modern amenities such as air conditioning. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overarching sentiment among guests is one of satisfaction with the hotel’s spacious, clean and comfortable accommodations.

Beds
At The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale, guests often rave about the exceptional comfort of the beds. The majority of reviews highlight the beds as being very comfortable with numerous mentions of firm, supportive mattresses providing a great night's sleep. Visitors frequently describe the beds as large, clean and exceptionally comfortable, contributing to a luxurious sleeping experience. While a few guests noted the beds were a bit hard or too small, the overall consensus points to a pleasing and restful place to sleep. The rooms, described as clean and comfortable, further complement the excellent bedding, making for an inviting and enjoyable stay. Those looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating sleep amidst the country charm will likely find the accommodations well-suited to their needs.

Cleanliness
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale boasts impressive cleanliness across its various accommodations and public areas. Guests frequently describe the rooms as spotless, absolutely spotless and very clean, highlighting a consistently high standard of housekeeping. Both bedrooms and lounges are mentioned as being impeccably clean, spacious and comfortable. Communal areas also maintain a welcoming, warm and clean atmosphere, reflecting the hotel's commitment to hygiene and guest comfort.

The hotel grounds are generally well-kept, though there are occasional mentions of minor garden maintenance issues. Bathrooms are clean but could benefit from some updates. Despite minor critiques such as untidy public areas or forgotten tissues, the overall feedback underlines a well-maintained environment with efficient cleaning staff. The hotel's dedication to cleanliness extends to COVID-19 safety measures, which have been well-received by guests. Friendly reception staff further complement the clean and comfortable stay at this charming country hotel.

Staff
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale prides itself on an exceptionally friendly and helpful staff that consistently earns praise from guests. Visitors frequently highlight the warm and welcoming atmosphere cultivated by the attentive and professional team. Staff members are described as accommodating, often going out of their way to ensure guests feel at home and well taken care of. Many reviewers note the excellent service provided with staff consistently attentive to guests' needs and maintaining a high level of politeness and courtesy. Despite occasional staffing challenges, the team demonstrates remarkable dedication and hard work, always aiming to provide the best experience possible. From friendly receptionists to helpful bar and dining room personnel, the staff contributes significantly to the hotel's inviting and comfortable environment. Overall, the compassionate and professional nature of the staff at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale leaves a lasting positive impression on guests.

Wi-Fi
Guests at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale have shared a range of experiences regarding the hotel's Wi-Fi. While some visitors found the Wi-Fi to be very good and functioning well, particularly given the hotel's isolated location, there were numerous mentions of weak and unreliable connections. Specific problems included no Wi-Fi in the rooms, weak or non-existent signals and inconsistent service throughout their stay. Several guests also pointed out that the Wi-Fi signal was stronger in public areas as opposed to individual rooms. In addition, there were comments about the TV reception having issues and the general absence of information about Wi-Fi in the rooms. Overall, internet reliability appears to be a significant concern for many guests at this hotel.

Parking
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale boasts several positive aspects related to its parking facilities. Many guests appreciated the ample and free parking available, which was described as easily accessible and conveniently located. Some reviewers specifically highlighted the great access to the National Trust car park and the provision of parking directly outside the hotel, which added to their convenience.

However, repeated concerns were raised about the limited number of parking spaces with several guests noting that the parking area can be small and sometimes insufficient to accommodate all vehicles. Instances of queuing to get in and out of the parking lot were also mentioned. The need for room for improvement in terms of expanding parking spaces was a consistent theme among reviews. Additionally, one review pointed out that the electric charging point had been broken, indicating a potential gap in facilities for electric vehicle users.

Overall, while parking availability at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale is generally convenient and free, the limited number of spaces and occasional access issues suggest that there is an opportunity for the hotel to enhance its parking amenities.

Family
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale offers a pleasant family-friendly experience with convenient parking and a relaxing environment. Families can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, watching swallows and observing the quiet landscape dotted with sheep and lambs. The hotel is a great place for a family trip, providing a nice environment for all ages. The facilities are commendable and the staff are welcoming, always happy to assist guests, although the directions to rooms can sometimes be confusing. While the breakfast and some bathroom facilities may need improvement, the overall atmosphere makes it a suitable destination for those seeking a family-oriented getaway.

3 Star
Nestled in an excellent location, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale is praised for its stunning views and beautiful surroundings. The hotel's prime setting is perfect for nature enthusiasts with many guests highlighting the breathtaking scenery and convenient access to local walks and the Dovedale area. The picturesque location is a standout feature, consistently noted as the primary reason for choosing this hotel.

The cooking is considered to be of a very good standard, adding to the enjoyable dining experience that features spectacular views from the restaurant and gardens. The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale embodies a three-star rating with a heart that sometimes feels more in line with a higher star property.

Despite its many charms, the hotel shows signs of age with some areas in need of renovation. Guests have mentioned that parts of the hotel are dated with worn-out furnishings and a tired appearance in the dining room and reception areas. While it does not offer luxury, the hotel is described as comfortable and charming, providing a solid three-star experience. Cleanliness is maintained, although the decor and facilities could benefit from updates to enhance the overall guest experience.

Business
The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale caters well to business travelers, providing a reasonable location that is a short drive from key destinations. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations with quiet and private rooms that are conducive to work. Business-friendly amenities include good wifi and phone signal, though some guests noted occasional slow speeds or non-functioning wifi. Additionally, the availability of EV chargers is a convenient feature for those with electric vehicles. While classified as a three-star property, it effectively meets the essential needs of business guests.

Historic
Nestled in a serene and scenic setting, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale is a destination brimming with historical significance and old-world charm. The building itself dates back to the early 1800s with some parts constructed as early as 1840, making it a listed building known for its rich historical roots.

Historians and those with a keen interest in the past will appreciate that the oldest features of the hotel date back to the mid-1800s, adding to its allure. The hotel successfully preserves its period charm with older-style furnishings and period furniture that, while not new, are quite serviceable and contribute to the authentic vibe of the establishment.

The exterior of the hotel, which has maintained its historical integrity over the years, complements the well-maintained grounds, offering picturesque views that guests can enjoy throughout their stay. This beautiful and historic property exudes a relaxed, old-world charm that is hard to replicate and has been home to noted figures such as Alfred Deller, enhancing its appeal for history aficionados.

Despite its age, the hotel is described as solidly fitting the 3-4 star category, offering a comfortable stay with character. Although some modern amenities like the spa bath may occasionally falter, the charm and authenticity of the building along with its rich history make it a wonderful destination for those looking to experience a blend of historical ambiance and serene beauty.

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale stands out as an independent establishment that not only maintains its historical legacy but also offers a tranquil retreat with stunning period aesthetics.


No, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale.

No, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale.

No, The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale doesn't have a gym.

Location Show Map
More Options
  • Hotel in Ashbourne

  • 8.3 Very Good

  • From $94

  • Inn in Ashbourne

  • 8.1 Very Good

  • From $108

  • Bed & Breakfast in Ashbourne

  • From $150

  • Cottage in Ashbourne

  • From $196



6,368,209

Hotels

60

Categories

49,805

Regions

209,065

Cities


×
×
Checkin
× Home About Press Categories Blog Hotel Awards Travelmyth GPT Contact Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Cookies Policy FAQ