Butlers

Wanted a stop over on our journey back to Devon and this amazing place fitted the bill. It was like a trip in days gone by with a slick modern twist. Unfussy reception with nothing being a trouble. Quaint rooms with virtually all you want. Huge bed. Loads of hot water. Beautiful garden outlook and the waft of bacon cooking in the morning just like being at home. We arrived hours early but that was not a problem. Great breakfast on the terrace with exquisite friendly service. The two guys running it have really got it right. Thank you. We may never pass that way again but if we did........

I am always somewhat sceptical when one reads negative hotel reviews, as there is usually some agenda. When the host responds, one can usually see the whole picture and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Having always worked in the luxury sector, where good service and honest feedback is a mainstay, I always ensure my feedback is honest. Here goes! I visited Cheltenham on 5th June, to celebrate the birthday of my friend, a well-known businessman in the town. Butlers looked great, central location and good value, so I booked online and advised I would be checking in at 7.00pm latest. On the day, I was at fault, by not leaving the restaurant until 8.05pm and immediately called Butlers, having received a missed call from them. I spoke to the owner Paul Smyth who advised me just to ring the doorbell on arrival and check me in. No issues I thought and advised Paul I would be 5 minutes. Not knowing Cheltenham well, it took me slightly longer to walk and I arrived at the hotel at 8.25pm, having already received a slightly more terse phone call en-route. To say, I wish I had captured on camera, the look on Paul's face when I arrived, will go down as one my greatest understatements; the pursed lips, the looking one up and down, the disdain! It was straight out of the Fawlty Towers book of hotel management and so over-the-top, it was all I could do to stop myself laughing out loud. Upon recovering my composure, I apologised for my late arrival, but was immediately made aware, that I was keeping Paul from his evening ahead. When I asked if Butlers had 24 hour check-in, (most hotels at this price-point have key pad door access), I was told, "At £75 per night, what do you expect?" Hilarious! At this point I was keen to get to my room, so wished Paul a good evening, to which his response, looking me up and down again, was, " Looks like you've already started yours. Incredulously, I replied, "I don't drink alcohol" (I used to drink too much in the past, so gave it up). Paul's final riposte was a highly sceptical 'hmmmmmm', a raising of the eyebrows, a turn on his heel and off he went into the night. It's such a shame, as I always do my best to support independent hotels, rather than the big chains and Butlers really is a lovely hotel; great furnishings, comfy bed, excellent location. Sadly, all just let down by such unnecessary rudeness on my visit. Everyone has off days and I hope this was just one of Paul's. I was more than happy to apologise, for arriving late. It will be interesting to see if this independent hotelier has the backbone to do the same?

I often make the mistake of getting a hotel too far from the town. This hotel is located 10 mins walk away from bars and shops and set in a quiet street. Rooms are very clean and of a good size. Parking on site Breakfast is freshly cooked and good quality Host is friendly and wouldn't hesitate to stay again

Just had a lovely 2 night stay at Butlers with my partner. It was absolutely perfect for a short break away from work stresses. We were made to feel very welcome immediately and the host was very friendly and helpful giving us local information. The decor in the room and throughout was really lovely with great attention to detail. Best night sleep in ages! It was a really quiet location but only a short walk to either town or the Montpellier area. Delicious breakfast and free parking on site were an added bonus. Our first time in Cheltenham, but not our last. We will definitely be back!