This retreat had the potential for five stars, but missed the mark. A very interesting place with lots of character. The first 24 hours was about a 4.5 star experience. However, when’s a wedding party came in the second day, other guests were largely ignored (I.e. sitting at a table for 30 minutes at Darbys before getting as much as a water).
The second day forward, the staff was low-energy, and hot water/coffee/cups were not out, with the explanation that they were “running low” as just ONE example. When things were asked for/about, a shoulder shrug was an average response.
One kitchen cooks everything, but the Library, Mansion, and Darbys refuse to let you order something off each other’s menus, and when you want a selection, you have to order from multiple places, despite them being less than a shout from each other. And the staff is not very nice when you ask them that question.
The Mansion House was taken over by the wedding party while it remained open for other guests, making it both uncomfortable and difficult to tour. It made other paying guests seem like they were intruding (throughout the property).
Many things were in need of repair /maintenance or cleaning. Coffee maker in room was not usable due to scum in it, and cleaning through appeared to be very superficial, with more deep cleaning needed in the room and throughout the property.
Still, because of the historic character, indoor pool, spa, etc. a fair trip.