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Summary of reviewsThe Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset, situated in the city's historic heart, earns accolades for its exceptional location opposite Wells Cathedral and near other notable attractions like the Bishop's Palace. Guests praise its central positioning, enabling easy exploration of local sights, dining and shopping with on-site parking adding to the convenience.
Breakfast at The Swan Hotel is well-regarded, particularly the Full English breakfast, noted for its superb quality and variety. The setting and service receive positive mentions, although minor improvements like offering more diverse continental options could further enhance the experience.
Dining experiences are typically positive with high-quality, well-presented meals served in a charming oak dining room and a pleasant garden area. While some guests point out the limited menu and occasional slow service, the overall feedback reflects delicious food and a good atmosphere, complemented by reasonable prices.
The hotel rooms are appreciated for their spaciousness, comfort and tasteful decor, often blending traditional charm with modern amenities. Many rooms offer stunning views of Wells Cathedral, further enhancing the overall ambiance. However, some areas could benefit from updates and soundproofing improvements to address occasional noise issues.
Cleanliness at the hotel generally meets guests' expectations with most finding their rooms and public areas well-maintained. Nevertheless, there are isolated reports of less-than-ideal conditions like stained carpets and dusty areas, particularly in bathrooms, suggesting room for improvement in housekeeping.
The staff at The Swan Hotel is frequently highlighted as a significant asset, noted for their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness. The hands-on management and attentive service across dining and front desk areas contribute to a welcoming and comfortable stay.
WiFi at the hotel receives mixed reviews with some guests enjoying strong and fast connections while others experience unreliable and weak signals, particularly in certain rooms.
Parking is a valued feature, but the limited and tight car park can pose challenges, especially for larger vehicles and guests are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
For families, while the hotel offers some appreciated amenities and a sense of being part of a family, there is a call for more dedicated family-friendly accommodations and services.
The nightlife experience around The Swan Hotel is varied with its peaceful atmosphere ideal for those seeking tranquility, though nearby bars and live music can lead to occasional nighttime noise. The hotel's terrace, offering scenic views and drinks, is a highlight for many.
Lastly, the beds at the hotel are frequently described as very comfortable, contributing to a restful stay. The variety of large and elegant bed options, including four-poster beds, enhances the luxurious feel of the rooms, despite a few mentions of hard mattresses.
Overall, The Swan Hotel provides a charming and comfortable base for exploring Wells with its location, dining and attentive staff standing out as key strengths. Show more
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Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Boutique-style Hotel
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Room Types
Standard Double RoomThese double rooms are featured with an en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, a coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Standard Twin RoomOur Classic Twin Rooms all offer two single beds with an en-suite bathroom, television, & tea/coffee making facilities, complimentary bottled mineral water, free WiFi access and much more.
Superior Double RoomOur Superior Double Rooms are large and luxurious for an extra comfortable night’s stay. All rooms offer a double bed with an en-suite bathroom, television, tea/coffee making facilities, complimentary bottled mineral water, free WiFi access and much more.
Superior Twin RoomEach tiwn room features en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Deluxe Double RoomEach double room features en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Deluxe Twin RoomThis delux twin room features 2 single beds along with additional seating area for guests. Each room features en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Deluxe SuiteThis deluxe suite features 1 bedroom with a king size bed and a living room. The room also features an en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, a hairdryer, complimentary tea and coffee, a coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi are available.
Superior Four Poster RoomThis room offers a king size bed. Each room features en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Deluxe Four Poster RoomThis room features en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Deluxe Junior SuiteThis suite comprises 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. This suite features a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, as well as chocolate for guests. The unit offers 1 bed.
This deluxe junior suites are rooms which boast an additional seating area for guests. The room features a king size bed with en-suite bathroom facilities, a TV, an electric kettle, an iron and ironing board, a hairdryer, complimentary tea & coffee, coffee machine, complimentary bottled water, slippers and free WiFi.
Guest Reviews
8.2
Very Good
Location
Nestled comfortably in the historical heart of Wells, The Swan Hotel boasts an exceptional location that allows guests to immerse themselves in the charm of this beautiful cathedral city. Directly opposite the stunning Wells Cathedral and just a stone’s throw away from the Bishop’s Palace, the hotel’s positioning offers breathtaking views and a central spot ideal for exploring the local attractions.
Visitors repeatedly highlight the convenience of being "in the middle of everything" with easy walking access to the High Street, Market Square and an array of restaurants and shops. For those driving, the central location also offers the practicality of on-site parking, allowing guests to leave their cars and enjoy the city on foot.
The hotel’s setting is described as superb, fantastic and unbeatable, underscoring its perfect placement for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s scenic views. The historical and picturesque surroundings add to the overall charm, making it an ideal base for a memorable visit to Wells. Whether admiring the cathedral from their rooms or stepping out to explore the historic sites, guests find The Swan Hotel's location to be simply perfect for soaking in all that Wells has to offer.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, is generally well-regarded by guests. Many reviews highlight the quality of the cooked breakfast, often describing it as excellent, tasty and well-prepared. The Full English breakfast is particularly praised for its superb execution. Diners appreciate the good range of options available, from traditional English fare to continental choices, although some feel the selection could be more imaginative.
Guests value the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute positively to the breakfast ambiance. The breakfast room itself is noted for being lovely, though a few guests mention it can become crowded during peak times.
Service speed varies with some enjoying prompt and efficient delivery while others note occasional delays, especially during busy periods.
Despite the largely positive feedback, there are areas for improvement. Some guests find the continental breakfast options limited and would appreciate more fresh fruit, pastries and yogurt. Issues such as lukewarm tea, weak coffee and overcooked eggs are mentioned but seem to be outliers rather than the norm.
In summary, while minor improvements could further enhance the breakfast experience, the overall consensus is that The Swan Hotel offers a high-quality and satisfying breakfast with plenty of variety to cater to different tastes.
Dinner
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, generally receives positive feedback for its dining experiences. Guests frequently praise the restaurant for its excellent food quality and commend the chef for delicious and well-presented meals. Diners also enjoy the pleasant dining atmosphere, particularly in the characterful oak dining room and the outdoor garden area.
Most guests report that the food, including both dinner and breakfast, is of high quality with the evening meals often described as delicious, superb or even exceptional. Many appreciate the variety offered on the menu and highlight specific dishes like steak and Sunday lunch as particularly notable. The prices for dinner are deemed reasonable by many, adding to the overall dining experience.
However, there are some areas for improvement. A recurring issue is the limited dinner menu and occasional unavailability of items, which some guests find disappointing. Slow service in the restaurant is another common gripe. A few diners have also commented on the food being overpriced and not living up to expectations at times with some meals described as routine, uninspiring or even bland and dry.
Despite these criticisms, the attentive and friendly staff often enhance the dining experience, ensuring that many guests leave satisfied. On balance, while there are occasional inconsistencies, the Swan Hotel's restaurant is highly regarded for its high-quality food and pleasant dining environment.
Rooms
At The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, the guest rooms have received varied feedback, though positive sentiments dominate. Many guests laud the rooms for being very spacious, clean and comfortable. The décor in several rooms is described as beautifully decorated and tastefully appointed, often blending traditional charm with modern amenities. Rooms offer lovely touches such as four-poster beds, charming interior decor and high-standard facilities, including some with amazing views of Wells Cathedral.
Comfort is a recurring theme with reviewers frequently highlighting the spaciousness and traditional yet comfortable furnishings in several rooms. Many rooms are reported to be newly refurbished, well-maintained and equipped with lovely toiletries, large bathrooms and excellent showers. Guests often mention pleasant surprises like a spacious suite or a room upgrade adding to their positive experience.
However, some areas could use an update. Certain rooms were noted to be a bit tired or in need of renovation with issues like poor ventilation, inadequate air conditioning and dated decor arising occasionally. Some guests also reported noise issues due to thin walls or street sounds, particularly in rooms away from the main block, which could affect comfort. A few rooms faced maintenance problems like non-functional TVs or shower issues.
The hotel’s rooms vary significantly with some guests experiencing darker or more cramped spaces, especially in the attic. Nevertheless, the overall ambiance and classic English charm make The Swan Hotel a cherished stay for many with its spacious and comfortably appointed rooms promising a delightful stay amidst the historic setting of Wells.
Beds
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, offers a comfortable and restful experience for guests, particularly noted in the positive feedback about their beds. Many guests found the beds to be very comfortable, highlighting both the coziness and the size of the beds. The hotel features large and elegant bed options, including queen, king and four-poster beds, which add to the charm and luxury of the rooms.
Despite some mentions of hard mattresses and occasional discomfort, the general consensus is that the beds provide a good night's sleep with descriptions such as super comfy and the comfiest things in the world frequently appearing in reviews. The bedding quality and cleanliness also receive praise, further enhancing the comfort level.
Rooms are not only fitted with large and comfortable beds but are also noted for being attractive and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay. However, a few guests mentioned issues such as heavy duvets, flat pillows and squeaky or worn-out beds, though these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.
Overall, The Swan Hotel appears to live up to its reputation for providing a comfortable and relaxing environment, particularly when it comes to the quality of sleep offered by their beds.
Cleanliness
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, receives mixed reviews concerning its cleanliness. Generally, many guests note that the hotel and rooms are very clean with some even describing them as spotlessly clean and well-maintained. Clean rooms, alongside the comfort and warmth they offer, are frequently highlighted. The hotel has also been acknowledged for its good overall cleanliness, spacious and comfortable rooms and effective COVID-secure measures.
However, not all feedback is positive. Some guests report specific issues such as stained carpets, dusty areas and mould, particularly in bathrooms. Others have noted that certain rooms are tired and in need of some TLC. Occasional mentions of less-than-thorough cleaning standards in public areas and restaurants suggest room for improvement in housekeeping services. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment leans towards an appreciation of the hotel's cleanliness and comfort, making it a generally satisfactory stay for most travelers.
Staff
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, is highly regarded for its exceptional staff. Guests frequently mention the friendly, welcoming and helpful nature of the team. The staff is consistently described as polite, efficient, professional and attentive. Management is noted for being hands-on and accommodating with particular praise for the manager's gracious and attentive demeanor.
Dining and front desk service stand out with personnel in these areas often described as excellent and accommodating. Many guests highlight the pleasant and courteous interactions they experienced throughout their stay. The staff's ability to go the extra mile to help guests, their prompt response to requests and their overall warm and amiable attitude contribute significantly to the hotel's positive reputation.
Moreover, the staff's professionalism, knowledgeability and willingness to assist create a supportive and enjoyable environment. Whether it’s the cheerful front desk, attentive dining room service or the helpfulness of the general staff, guests seem to feel well-cared for at The Swan Hotel. Overall, the hotel's staff significantly enhances the guest experience, ensuring a welcoming and comfortable stay.
Wi-Fi
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset has garnered mixed feedback regarding its WiFi services. On the positive side, guests have noted instances of strong, efficient and very fast WiFi, allowing for a good connection and nice, quick internet access. The presence of free WiFi is also a welcomed amenity.
However, there are recurring issues reported with the WiFi. Some guests experienced very poor or essentially useless WiFi in certain rooms with frequent disconnections and weak signal strength. Rooms were noted to have no WiFi sockets, compounding connectivity problems. Instances of bad and unreliable service have been highlighted with some guests unable to use the internet effectively during their stay. Overall, while the hotel provides WiFi, the experience can be inconsistent, varying from excellent to frustratingly unreliable depending on the room and perhaps the time of use.
Parking
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, offers an on-site car park, but guests face a mix of experiences when it comes to parking. Positive comments highlight the availability of free parking, which adds considerable convenience and is seen as a bonus for visitors. However, the hotel's car park is often described as limited and larger vehicles may find the space challenging to navigate due to tight access points and narrow entrances.
While some guests found parking abundant and convenient, especially with free on-site options, others reported difficulty, often noting that parking spaces fill up quickly, particularly on busy days and weekends. The parking arrangement is based on a first-come, first-serve system, which can be a source of frustration for late arrivals who find the car park full. Given the limited spaces, it is advisable for guests to arrive early to secure a spot or consider alternative parking arrangements.
Additionally, the hotel's charming, historic nature is reflected in the tight car park, echoing its origins as an old coaching inn. On balance, while the free and central parking is appreciated, the experience can vary with some drivers finding it manageable and others facing significant challenges.
Family
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset has mixed reviews regarding activities and accommodations for children. Some families appreciated features such as a gorgeous bathroom, the availability of a lift and a sense of being part of a family. Kids seemed to enjoy their stay, yet several reviews pointed out that the hotel lacks designated family rooms and suggested improvements for better family-friendly accommodations. Some negative experiences included having to transport belongings from across town, limited services and disruptions from events like live concerts. Additionally, the hotel’s restaurant size was noted as being relatively small for the number of guests.
Nightlife
Visiting Wells in Somerset and staying at The Swan Hotel can offer a unique blend of tranquility and lively nightlife. Many guests have appreciated the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of their rooms, often describing them as serene and free from disturbances. This is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy a restful night's sleep.
However, it’s worth noting that the location can also cater to those who enjoy vibrant nightlife. With bars nearby and live music playing till late, there are options for evening entertainment right at your doorstep. This can sometimes lead to nighttime noise, particularly from nearby bars and clubs. Some guests have reported being kept awake by music and sounds from the local nightlife scene. The hotel itself also experiences some internal noise, especially from people walking in rooms above due to lack of soundproofing.
Balancing this, the hotel boasts a lovely terrace with drinks available, providing a scenic spot overlooking the iconic cathedral. This outdoor seating area is a highlight for many, offering a charming setting to relax.
Overall, The Swan Hotel offers a mixed experience with quiet and peaceful rooms juxtaposed against the lively nightlife of Wells. Depending on one's preference for evening entertainment or tranquility, it could be an ideal stay or may require some consideration regarding potential noise.
4 Star
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset offers a pleasant stay with good amenities and many visitors commend their lovely four-star experience, noting the hotel as fantastic, superior and wonderful. The rooms are generally clean and described as comfortable and large with quality in-room facilities like a good shower. Guests typically enjoy their time here, finding the overall experience very good.
However, there are mixed opinions regarding the hotel's four-star rating. While some feel they had a great experience, others believe the hotel is more comparable to a three-star establishment, citing minor issues and missed attention to details that do not measure up to four-star expectations. There are mentions of smaller rooms, dated décor, lack of in-room essentials and no gym facilities, which detract from the anticipated standard. Additionally, the hotel breakfast, although well-reviewed, is seen as lacking variety and meals are considered overpriced for a four-star venue.
Overall, while The Swan Hotel provides satisfactory accommodation with certain superior qualities, there are areas in need of updating to fully align with a four-star classification. Pricing is also noted to be on the high side given the current state of some facilities. Despite these points, the hotel retains a welcoming charm that ensures most guests enjoy their stay.
Business
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, has garnered positive remarks for its good wireless connectivity, accommodating staff and businesslike service. Guests appreciated its suitability for work trips and noted that the hotel provides useful amenities like business notebooks on the go. However, reviews highlighted the need for modern noise insulation in rooms and pointed out that meeting rooms weren't always clean. Additionally, the hotel doesn't offer a dedicated business room and some found it less ideal for business stays. Breakfast hours were reduced, possibly due to COVID-related changes. Overall, while the hotel has commendable business facilities, there are areas that could be improved for a more seamless business travel experience.
Accessible
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, presents some challenges for guests with disabilities. Many areas, including the coach house entry and upper rooms, are only accessible with assistance. Unfortunately, the hotel lacks a lift, making upper floors difficult to reach, particularly for guests with mobility issues or the elderly. Steep stairs and the presence of steps throughout the hotel further complicate access for those who are less mobile. Some reviews indicate that mobility-related requests made in advance were not adequately addressed.
Parking is another difficulty, as the hotel cannot guarantee disabled parking spaces. The access archway's design, which has not kept pace with the increase in vehicle sizes over the years, compounds entry difficulties. Though the hotel is currently in need of refurbishment, it remains evident that facilities such as handrails could significantly enhance safety and ease of movement for guests with disabilities.
On a positive note, the staff have received commendations for their helpfulness, especially in assisting with luggage. This supportive team can provide some comfort to those facing the hotel's accessibility issues.
Boutique-Style
The Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, is housed in a lovely old building that exudes charm and character. This boutique hotel stands out for its beautiful decor and smartly decorated interiors. Guests consistently describe it as a lovely and welcoming place, noting its unique character that enhances its traditional charm. Widely regarded as one of the best boutique hotels in the West Country, The Swan Hotel appeals to those looking for a unique and stylish stay.
Romantic
Nestled in the heart of Wells, Somerset, The Swan Hotel offers an enchanting setting that is ideal for a romantic escape. The fine dining room and the inviting courtyard, perfect for enjoying a drink, create an ambiance of relaxation and intimacy, making it a wonderful choice for couples celebrating special occasions like anniversaries.
Guests frequently describe their stays as romantic and thoroughly recommend the hotel for a cozy romantic weekend. The luxurious amenities, such as the huge shower, contribute to a comfortable and relaxing experience, allowing guests to genuinely feel pampered. Most notably, the friendly staff further enhance the atmosphere, ensuring that visitors feel welcomed and attended to.
While there are some mentions of lackluster service and a few suggesting it may not be the ultimate choice for a romantic getaway, many still appreciate it for its romantic setting and comfortable accommodations. Overall, The Swan Hotel remains a favored destination for those seeking a romantic retreat in a charming location.
No, The Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset.
No, The Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset.
No, The Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset doesn't have a gym.