Royal Hotel In Ross On Wye

Alright, picture this: you're cruising through the winding roads of Herefordshire, tummy rumbling like a distant thunder, when suddenly, like a mirage in the English countryside, appears the Royal Hotel in Ross-on-Wye. Now, I'm not one to toot my own horn, but I've stayed in my fair share of hotels, and let me tell you, this place is something else.

First Impressions: The Grand Entrance

First off, the building itself is like something out of a Jane Austen novel. It's all grand, sweeping architecture, with a touch of that classic British charm. I mean, the place has been standing since 1837, so it's had plenty of time to perfect its 'stately home' vibe. I half expected Mr. Darcy to come strolling out, but alas, no such luck.

Now, I'm not one to be easily impressed, but as I walked through the doors, I felt like I'd stepped into a real-life game of Cluedo. The lobby was all plush carpets, antique furniture, and enough chandeliers to make Liberace feel at home. I half expected to see Miss Scarlet lurking with a candlestick, but thankfully, it was just the friendly receptionist.

Check-In: A Warm Welcome

Speaking of the receptionist, let me tell you, these folks know how to make a guest feel welcome. I've stayed in hotels where the staff greet you like they're doing you a favor, but not here. The Royal Hotel crew are like the world's friendliest welcoming committee, all smiles and helpful tips about the best local pubs (more on that later).

And get this, they even have a dog-friendly policy. Yes, you heard it right. Fido can tag along for the ride, and there's even a special 'doggy menu' on offer. I mean, if that's not a sign of a hotel that cares, I don't know what is.

Rooms with a View: Fit for a King

Now, let's talk rooms. I was staying in one of their 'Executive' suites, and let me tell you, it was bigger than my first apartment. We're talking four-poster bed, roll-top bath, and enough plush cushions to start a small pillow fight. And the view? Well, that was something else. I could see the River Wye meandering its way through the countryside, all the way to Wales. It was like having my own personal watercolor painting outside my window.

But here's where things get really interesting. You know how some hotels have those little books in the room, telling you about the local area? Well, the Royal Hotel has taken that to a whole new level. Each room is named after a local historical figure, and there's a detailed biography in the room, telling you all about them. I was staying in the 'John Kyrle' room, and let me tell you, that man had more lives than a cat. I felt like I needed a history degree just to keep up with the story!

Dining: A Feast for the Senses

But enough about the rooms, let's talk food. The Royal Hotel has a restaurant that's like something out of a fairytale. All dark wood paneling, twinkling candles, and enough silverware to make a cutlery salesman weep with joy. And the food? Well, that was something else. We're talking locally sourced ingredients, cooked to perfection, and presented like a work of art. I had the lamb, and let me tell you, it was so tender, it was like eating a cloud that had been grazing on mint sauce.

And the wine list? Now, I'm no sommelier, but I know a good wine when I taste one, and the Royal Hotel has got some corkers. I had a chat with the sommelier (yes, they have one of those too), and he told me they've got a wine cellar that's older than some of the guests. I mean, if that's not a sign of a hotel that takes its wine seriously, I don't know what is.

Royal Hotel Ross On Wye by Greene King Inns (Ross-on-Wye) – 2021

Exploring Ross-on-Wye: A Town with a Past

Now, I could wax lyrical about the Royal Hotel all day, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the town itself. Ross-on-Wye is like something out of a storybook. We're talking cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and enough history to make your head spin. I spent a day wandering around, and I swear, every street corner had a story to tell.

And here's a fun fact for you: Ross-on-Wye is actually the birthplace of British tourism. Yes, you heard it right. Back in the 18th century, some bloke called Thomas Cook started taking people on trips to the town, and the rest is history. I mean, if that's not a reason to visit, I don't know what is.

Back at the Ranch: The Final Touches

But let's get back to the hotel. Because it's not just the rooms, or the food, or the history that makes the Royal Hotel so special. It's the little touches. Like the fact that they leave a little box of chocolates on your pillow at turndown service. Or the fact that they have a honesty bar in the lounge, where you can help yourself to a drink and just write down what you've had. I mean, who doesn't love a bit of trust and a bit of chocolate?

And then there's the spa. Oh, the spa. I could write a whole article just about that. But I'll spare you the details (mostly because I don't want to make you jealous). Let's just say, if you're looking to unwind, the Royal Hotel's spa is the place to do it.

In Conclusion: A Royal Affair

So there you have it. The Royal Hotel in Ross-on-Wye is more than just a place to stay. It's a step back in time, a taste of history, and a whole lot of fun. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like royalty, even if you're just a regular Joe like me. And if you ever find yourself in Herefordshire, do yourself a favor and check it out. Just don't blame me if you never want to leave.

Until next time, folks. Over and out.