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400 years old country house consists of 64 classically decorated rooms it is perfectly located along the River Thames. The riverside hotel has an award winning restaurant.
Summary of reviewsNestled in the picturesque town of Marlow, the Macdonald Compleat Angler boasts an exceptional riverside location that consistently impresses guests. Its serene setting on the banks of the River Thames and proximity to the historic Marlow Bridge offer stunning views and easy access to the charming town center, making it a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and peaceful retreats. Guests highlight the welcoming ambiance, coupled with friendly and helpful staff, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Breakfast at the hotel draws mixed reviews. Although the setting offers lovely river views and a wide variety of options—including a full English breakfast—there are recurring issues with service delays and additional charges for specific items, dampening the overall experience. Despite these challenges, many guests appreciate the high-quality food and the beautiful dining environment.
Dinner at the hotel's restaurants, particularly the Sindhu, enjoys positive feedback with guests praising the delicious food and excellent service. However, the high prices and occasionally uninspired menu receive some criticism. The ambiance of the dining areas could benefit from an update, but many guests still find their dining experience pleasant, especially given the picturesque location by the Thames.
The rooms offer a mix of spacious comfort and stunning river views, often praised for cleanliness and modern amenities. However, dated décor, maintenance issues and noise disturbances in certain rooms signal a need for refurbishment. Superior rooms and those recently renovated are recommended for a more satisfying stay.
Maintaining high cleanliness standards, the hotel receives praise for neat and comfortable accommodations. However, some exterior areas and public spaces appear tired, needing more attention to detail. Despite these minor setbacks, the overall cleanliness is well-regarded.
The staff at the Macdonald Compleat Angler are generally perceived as friendly and helpful, significantly enhancing the guest experience. While some inconsistencies in service and professionalism exist, the majority of visitors commend the attentive and accommodating nature of the hotel's team.
The hotel's free WiFi, however, is a consistent point of frustration with many guests finding the connectivity slow and unreliable. Despite offering complimentary WiFi, the service often fails to meet guests' needs, indicating room for improvement.
Parking at the hotel is appreciated for its convenience and ample availability, although advance booking is recommended during peak times. The absence of on-site electric vehicle charging facilities is noted, but overall, the parking experience is smooth and stress-free.
Family stays receive largely favorable feedback with the hotel catering well to children and providing ample family suites. While there are occasional noise and upkeep issues, the picturesque setting and friendly staff enhance the family stay experience. However, varied opinions on breakfast quality and room comfort could benefit from addressing these concerns more uniformly.
Regarding bed comfort, opinions are varied. Many guests find the beds comfortable and conducive to a restful stay, while others report issues with mattress quality and bed size. This inconsistency suggests that upgrades and replacements might be necessary to ensure a consistently comfortable sleep experience.
In conclusion, the Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a charming and relaxing riverside retreat with exceptional staff service and picturesque views. While there are areas for improvement, particularly with breakfast service, room maintenance, WiFi reliability and bed comfort, the overall experience is positive, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking both leisure and convenience in the heart of Marlow. Show more
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Categories
Luxury Hotel
Hotel near Golf Courses
Historic Hotel
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Room Types
Standard Double RoomThis room has stylish décor and old English character. The room has climate control, free broadband access and complimentary water.
Deluxe Double RoomThis spacious room has stylish décor and old English character. The room has climate control, free broadband access and complimentary water.
Guests can enjoy views of the River Thames from this room.
Super Deluxe Double RoomLocated in the newer wing of the hotel, these spacious rooms come with a king-sized bed, duvet, a sofa, a separate shower and bath, double vanity and private balcony overlooking Marlow weir.
The room has climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi access, complimentary water as well as 42 inch
flat screen TV, DVD player, iPod docking stations and Elemis toiletries.
Superior Deluxe Double or Twin Room Located in the newer wing of the hotel, these spacious rooms come with a 2 single beds, duvet, a sofa, a separate shower and bath, double vanity and private balcony overlooking Marlow weir.
The room has climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi access, complimentary water as well as 42 inch
flat screen TV, DVD player, iPod docking stations and Elemis toiletries.
Deluxe Queen RoomLocated in the newer wing of the hotel, these spacious rooms come with a four poster bed, duvet, a sofa, a separate shower and bath, double vanity and private balcony overlooking Marlow weir.
The room has climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi access, complimentary water as well as 42 inch
flat screen TV, DVD player, iPod docking stations and Elemis toiletries.
Deluxe King RoomLocated in the newer wing of the hotel, these rooms are very spacious with King-sized beds, duvets, a sofa, a separate shower and bath, double vanity and private balconies overlooking Marlow weir. The room has climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi access, complimentary water as well as 42-inch flat screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docking stations and larger selection of Elemis toiletries.
Twin Room - Disability AccessThis twin room with disability access has extra space for easy wheelchair access and is located on the ground floor. The room features wider doorways, a low-height bath, additional handrails and reachable alarm facilities linked to Reception for complete peace of mind and reassurance. These rooms offer climate cooling, a Nespresso coffee machine, luxury ELEMIS toiletries, use of a fluffy bathrobe and free unlimited WiFi.
Deluxe RoomThese double rooms with traditional four poster beds are located in the traditional part of the hotel with stylish décor and old English character. Selected rooms have river views. These rooms have queen-size beds, climate control, heated bathroom floors, complimentary broadband access, complimentary water and a flat-screen TV, and a DVD player. A selection of DVDs can be borrowed from Reception. Not accessible by lift.
Deluxe Suitehis deluxe suite has astandard double bed and is located in the traditional part of the hotel with stylish décor and old English character, overlooking the stunning Marlow weir. The room has a comfortable lounge area, a separate shower, bidet. The room has climate control, complimentary broadband, complimentary water as well as 42” flat-screen TV, a DVD player, an iPod docking station and larger selection of Elemis toiletries. Not accessible by lift.
Standard Twin RoomThese standard twin rooms are spacious and come with two sizeable single beds. These rooms offer climate cooling, a Nespresso coffee machine, luxury ELEMIS toiletries, use of a fluffy bathrobe and free unlimited WiFi. View to the rear of the hotel.
SuiteThis suite has a king-size bed and is located in the traditional part of the hotel with a view of the lawn and courtyard. The room has a good sized separate lounge area, a large bathroom with a separate shower, bath and bidet. The room has climate control, complimentary WiFi access, complimentary water as well as 42” flat-screen TV, a DVD player, an iPod docking station and a larger selection of Elemis toiletries. Not accessible by lift.
Superior SuiteThis suite has a king-size bed and is located in the traditional part of the hotel with a private balcony offering stunning views of Marlow Bridge, the River Thames, the hotel lawn and the Parish Church which is also lit at night. The room has a large, separate lounge area with comfortable sofas and a small dining table. There is a large bathroom with a separate shower, bath and bidet as well as climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi access, complimentary water, 42” flat-screen TV, a DVD player, an iPod docking station and a larger selection of Molton Brown toiletries. Not accessible by lift.
Double RoomThis double room features a bathrobe and air conditioning. Cosy Deep Sleeper - A delightful Double bedroom, located in the original part of the hotel with its own individual character. Room can experience external noise.
Guest Reviews
7.7
Good
Location
Nestled in the picturesque town of Marlow, 'Macdonald Compleat Angler' boasts an exceptional location that is hard to beat. Situated right on the banks of the River Thames, the hotel's setting offers stunning views of the river, weir and the majestic Marlow Bridge. The proximity to the town center allows for an easy stroll to shops, restaurants and parks, making it convenient for guests who wish to explore the charming locale.
The hotel's riverside position provides a serene and scenic backdrop, perfect for leisurely walks and peaceful retreats. Rooms with balconies offer breathtaking vistas, enhancing the overall experience of this idyllic riverside escape. The hotel's ambiance, combined with friendly and helpful staff, ensures a welcoming and comfortable stay.
Whether it's the beautiful garden bar overlooking the Thames or the short walk to Marlow’s High Street, guests consistently highlight the superb, relaxing location. The property’s easy access to local attractions and ample parking further add to its allure, making it a favored choice for both leisure and convenience.
From stunning views of the river to the delightful walks into town, 'Macdonald Compleat Angler' offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility, providing a memorable getaway in the heart of Marlow.
Breakfast
When it comes to breakfast at the Macdonald Compleat Angler, guest experiences wildly differ. The breakfast setting offers lovely views of the river Thames and the Marlow Weir, which adds to its appeal. Some guests rave about the breakfast, describing it as superb with a delicious array of options, freshly cooked meals and attentive, friendly service.
Many guests noted the quality of the breakfast as excellent with some mention of specific dishes such as poached eggs being spot on. A variety of choices, including fruit, cereals, pastries and a full English breakfast, also received positive feedback.
However, many guests reported issues with the breakfast service. Several reviews mentioned long waits for their orders with delays ranging from 20 to 50 minutes and in some cases, the food arrived cold or incomplete. There were also frequent complaints about the additional charges for certain items, such as eggs benedict and smoked salmon, which felt excessive given the already high cost of breakfast.
The service quality was another point of contention. While some guests praised the friendly and efficient staff, others found the breakfast team disorganized and the service slow. Issues with clearing tables, refilling buffet items and overall coordination were highlighted.
In summary, while breakfast at the Macdonald Compleat Angler has its highs—such as great food quality, a variety of choices and a beautiful riverside setting—the consistency of the service and the value for money are areas that appear to need improvement to match guests' expectations.
Dinner
Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a dining experience that is generally well-regarded by its guests, especially at its Sindhu restaurant, which has been praised for delicious food and great service. The Riverside restaurant also receives positive feedback with many noting the excellent dinner and beautiful river views. Service in the restaurants is often highlighted as being exceptional.
However, there are recurring mentions of high prices with several guests finding the restaurant overpriced for its standard. The dinner menu, though praised by some for its variety and quality, is described by others as limited and uninspired. Additionally, there are occasional complaints about the food being bland or not meeting expectations.
The ambiance of the dining areas, particularly the main restaurant, could benefit from an update as it is noted to lack atmosphere. The inconsistency in service quality and the varied experience with the food – sometimes excellent, other times disappointing – suggest room for improvement.
Despite these mixed reviews, many guests had a pleasant dining experience and enjoyed their meals, especially when dining at Sindhu or enjoying the picturesque location by the Thames.
Rooms
Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a mixed experience when it comes to its rooms. Guests frequently praise the spaciousness and comfort of the accommodations with many enjoying stunning views of the river and picturesque surroundings. The larger rooms, often with balconies, are particularly appreciated for their breathtaking vistas and airy atmosphere. Rooms are generally described as clean and well-equipped, featuring amenities like Elemis toiletries and sizeable en suites.
However, the décor across much of the hotel appears to be dated with multiple comments about tired furniture, worn carpets and a need for refurbishment. Issues such as faulty air conditioning, non-functional showers and minor maintenance problems like broken hairdryers and missing lightbulbs surface in several reviews. Noise can also be a concern, especially in rooms located near the bar or function rooms.
Despite these drawbacks, many guests find the rooms to be comfortable and welcoming with some benefiting from complimentary upgrades and extra facilities like sitting areas in suites. The location by the Thames is repeatedly highlighted as a major asset, contributing to a generally pleasant stay. For those looking for an authentic charm combined with modern conveniences, it seems worthwhile to opt for the superior rooms or those recently renovated to ensure a more enjoyable experience.
Beds
Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a varied experience when it comes to the comfort of their beds. Positively, many guests found the beds to be very comfortable, contributing to a restful stay accentuated by beautiful views and the soothing sounds of the surrounding nature. The hotel rooms, including luxurious options with four poster beds and balconies, also received commendations for their comfort and ambiance. Some guests enjoyed super comfortable beds with soft pillows and excellent bed quality, enhancing their overall experience.
However, not all reviews were glowing. Some guests encountered issues with uncomfortable mattresses that sagged, squeaked or felt lumpy. A few beds were noted to be small and could benefit from replacements or upgrades. There were also remarks about double beds being more suited for single occupancy due to their size. Occasionally, the comfort was marred by disturbed sleep, hard pillows and outdated bedding.
Overall, while many guests praised the bed comfort at Macdonald Compleat Angler, it seems there is room for improvement in consistency, particularly concerning bed sizes and mattress conditions.
Cleanliness
The Macdonald Compleat Angler presents a blend of classic style and an enviable location, making it a noteworthy choice for travelers. The rooms received praise for their cleanliness with many guests noting that their accommodations were extremely clean, neat and comfortable. Spacious and well-equipped rooms added to the comfort and guests highlighted the bright and crisp interior, which contributes to a pleasant stay.
However, some areas fell short. The exterior of the hotel and certain areas like the terrace and dining spaces appeared tired and required more attention. Cobwebs, dusty tables and dirty windows were noted issues that slightly marred the otherwise tidy environment. The presence of outdated décor and worn facilities detracted from an otherwise well-maintained establishment.
Bathrooms in the upgraded rooms were appreciated for their beauty, though occasional cleanliness lapses such as full bins and minor maintenance issues like rusty bolts were pointed out. Despite these setbacks, bathrooms generally met cleanliness expectations and the overall hotel cleanliness was frequently described positively. While the hotel's attention to cleanliness could be described as mostly good, it occasionally missed the immaculate mark some guests might expect.
Dining experiences were mixed with additional breakfast costs causing some disappointment despite the good quality of food. Despite these grievances, the position and overall maintenance of the Macdonald Compleat Angler will likely satisfy travelers seeking a quintessential stay with a focus on cleanliness.
Staff
The staff at the Macdonald Compleat Angler are widely regarded as friendly and helpful, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the hotel. Guests frequently highlighted the exceptional service provided by the concierge team, particularly noting individuals such as David who consistently went above and beyond. The reception staff were praised for their warm greetings and efficient check-in process and a standout reception guest service manager, Mr. Gate, was mentioned for his charming and helpful demeanor.
Service at the restaurant and bar received mixed feedback with some guests appreciating the friendliness and efficiency of the waitstaff, while others noted issues such as slow service and occasional inattentiveness. Despite some inconsistencies, the overall staff attitude was praised for being professional, polite and accommodating. The hotel's service team was frequently described as attentive with numerous guests commending their helpful and friendly nature.
However, not all experiences were uniformly positive. A few guests pointed out areas for improvement, such as the need for better training and communication among some staff members. Instances of unprofessional behavior and disorganization were mentioned, indicating that service quality could be inconsistent at times.
In summary, while there are areas for improvement, many visitors enjoyed the warm and helpful service provided by the staff at the Macdonald Compleat Angler, which significantly enhanced their overall experience at the hotel.
Wi-Fi
Macdonald Compleat Angler enjoys a reputation for its prime location and ample parking facilities which guests appreciate. The property's distinct charm is further elevated by the exceptional service provided by most of the staff, ensuring a warm and welcoming stay.
However, one aspect that could see improvement is the WiFi. Guests frequently report issues with the connectivity, describing it as slow, patchy or difficult to access. The internet signal often drops or is weak, creating frustration for those who need reliable online access. Moreover, the process to log in can be complicated with several access points not consistently providing a quality signal. For many, the lack of a straightforward WiFi password adds another layer of inconvenience.
While the hotel offers free WiFi, its reliability and strength leave much to be desired, indicating a need for better coverage and more consistent performance. Despite these WiFi issues, the hotel's other positive attributes continue to draw guests who appreciate the overall experience.
Parking
The 'Macdonald Compleat Angler' offers a well-acknowledged, accessible parking experience for its guests. The parking system provides plenty of spaces, ensuring ease of access right in the town center. Many reviews commend the availability of free parking, while some guests have noted paid parking as a good value. The parking is mostly secure and on-site with disabled parking available upon arrival. However, it's recommended to book a parking spot in advance and be mindful of the limited spaces during peak times. For electric vehicle owners, it's important to note the absence of on-site EV charging facilities. Overall, guests appreciate the convenience and ample availability of parking, making it a stress-free experience.
Family
The Macdonald Compleat Angler receives diverse reviews regarding activities for kids. Many guests highlight the ample family suites available, which cater well to those traveling with children. The rooms often come equipped with useful amenities, like extra blankets and offer pleasant views of Marlow river, making them ideal for a relaxing family picnic by the water. The hotel's environment is described as family-friendly, providing a comfortable bar area that is suitable for all ages.
Though the hotel boasts a temporary summer break program and great views, some reviews mention noise and upkeep issues that can affect the comfort of rooms with particular concerns about room height. Breakfast is available and noted to be lovely by some, though others found it disappointing. Despite these inconsistencies, the hotel's efforts in service often exceed expectations, including special gestures for celebrations like birthdays and fabulous meals at the on-site Sindhu Indian Restaurant.
Overall, while there are areas that could be improved to enhance the family experience fully, the Macdonald Compleat Angler seems to be a largely favorable destination for family stays, especially those who appreciate picturesque riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
Business
The Macdonald Compleat Angler appears to cater well to business travelers with several positive aspects highlighted by guest reviews. The hotel is noted to provide appropriate amenities for business trips, including reliable Wi-Fi and free parking, making it a convenient choice for corporate guests. It is deemed an ideal conference location with suitable facilities for meetings and a staff praised for their friendliness and good response times. The hotel’s quick reservation system and professional service create a smooth experience for business-related stays.
Additionally, guests appreciated the availability of coffee and tea in the rooms and the prompt handling of business requests. The hotel's proximity to business areas adds to its convenience for corporate purposes. However, some concerns were noted, such as the need for improved mobile phone reception and service experience and issues with some dated decor. Despite these drawbacks, the location remains adequate and beneficial for business travelers looking to balance work with a comfortable stay.
Accessible
The Macdonald Compleat Angler offers some accessible rooms for guests with restricted mobility, addressing certain needs for those requiring wheelchair access. However, significant limitations exist, as many reviews highlighted difficulties related to the lack of an elevator, posing a problem for guests with mobility issues. The absence of lifts and reliance on stairways created difficulties and hazards for the elderly and those with fragile conditions. Although the hotel ensures easy access to the town center, the internal accessibility needs considerable improvement to be truly friendly to disabled guests. Updating the facilities to include an elevator and reducing the reliance on stairs could significantly improve the experience for guests with disabilities.
Historic
Nestled in the heart of Marlow, the Macdonald Compleat Angler stands as a testament to historical grandeur and charm. This picturesque English retreat, set against a backdrop that includes a historic suspension bridge and a quaint high street, offers guests more than just a place to stay. With its legacy set in an old mill and abbey house, the hotel is a living museum where history enthusiasts can revel in its original decor and preserved ancient maps. Each of the three main buildings, recorded as National Historic, tells its own unique story, enhancing the authenticity of the experience.
Guests repeatedly note the charm of this classical, period property, where history comes alive through small bursts of historical narratives sprinkled throughout the premises. The on-site historical recordings and revival history posts serve as delightful discoveries for those who appreciate the past. Inside, the beauty and historical significance of the building itself captivate visitors, offering a traditional old hotel experience that's difficult to find elsewhere.
The scenery surrounding the hotel is among the most scenic and picturesque in Britain, inviting travelers to explore the historic bridge nearby and enjoy lovely high streets brimming with historic structures. With its rich history and stunning architectural presence, the Macdonald Compleat Angler is a prime destination for those seeking a blend of historical depth and serene visual beauty.
Luxury
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Guests consistently praise the high-end service and luxurious experience the hotel provides. The suites, described repeatedly as luxurious, boast elegant decorations and an indulgent ambiance.
Visitors admire the nice period property, noting it is well-maintained. The lovely four-poster beds and comfortable suites amplify the feeling of opulence, creating an overall luxurious stay. The quality dining rooms add to the experience with amenities like birthday prosecco and desserts delivered to rooms, making special occasions memorable.
While the hotel is recognized as quite expensive, guests feel they receive high-quality service and accommodations in return. The attention to detail is evident, from the luxury decorations to the cut crystal glasses for the still and sparkling water. Despite some concerns about value relative to price, the general consensus points to a high-quality, indulgent experience at this period property.
Romantic
Macdonald Compleat Angler offers an idyllic setting perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. With picturesque riverbanks and a view of the Thames, the location is both peaceful and beautiful. The decor is elegant and the rooms are spacious with comfortable beds and lovely views, especially those that overlook the river. Many guests highlight the suite's beautiful and romantic ambiance, ideal for anniversary celebrations, honeymoon retreats or simply an indulgent weekend experience.
The ambiance is enhanced by the hotel's themed evenings and thoughtfully put-together short break packages. The establishment's old-world charm by the water provides an amazing backdrop for those looking to rekindle romance. Visitors who have celebrated special occasions here, including birthdays and wedding anniversaries, describe it as a wonderful experience. The staff's helpfulness and friendliness add to the overall positive experience, making guests feel welcome and special.
Though there are mentions of areas needing improvement, such as room size and minor maintenance issues, the overall sentiment reflects a delightful stay. The stunning views, serene environment and romantic settings make it a great place for a romantic weekend. Ultimately, Macdonald Compleat Angler delivers a serene and scenic retreat that couples looking for romance and tranquility will surely appreciate.
Dog Friendly
Macdonald Compleat Angler stands out as a highly accommodating destination for pet owners, consistently praised for its dog-friendly policies and facilities. Dogs are welcomed in various parts of the hotel, including the rooms, lounge and bar. This inclusivity allows guests to enjoy their stay without the hassle of leaving their pets behind. Many reviewers enjoyed upgraded dog-friendly guestrooms, contributing to the overall positive experience.
Guests have noted the additional care shown towards their canine companions, such as the provision of bottled water and treats left in the room. The hotel's pet-friendly atmosphere extends to its public spaces, making it easy for guests to spend quality time with their dogs throughout their stay. One guest highlighted how the dog-friendly policy added to their enjoyment, allowing their dog to feel very welcome.
While one review mentioned a disappointing service related to having a dog, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The dog-friendly amenities and the warm reception for pets make Macdonald Compleat Angler a favored choice for travelers with dogs. The hotel's readiness to accommodate dogs almost everywhere within the premises is seen as a substantial bonus, solidifying its reputation as a pet-friendly haven.
No, Macdonald Compleat Angler doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Macdonald Compleat Angler.
Yes, Macdonald Compleat Angler welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Macdonald Compleat Angler.