Local Reviews
In May 2008, culfordgrays said about St Pierre Park Hotel
This hotel is billed as the 'premier hotel' on Guernsey, however I can only assume this is due to the lack of competition! Don't get me wrong, it wasn't awful, its clean, has a lovely pool, fantastic bar and the food was good, but there were too many little things which disappointment me. Firstly, the rooms are a little tatty and the bathrooms desperately need modernisation. Secondly, the layout of the leisure area is all wrong, you have to shower, put on a robe then walk through the reception area to the changing room!
I emailed the hotel the day before our stay to confirm that they had internet access, before I packed my laptop! They confirmed that they did. However, this was unavailable for 4 out of the 5 days I was there. When I asked at reception I was simply told 'it doesn't work for us either, we can't even take bookings'. Not the helpful apology/reassurance of when the problem would be fixed that I would have liked.
My main issue however was the attitude of the staff. They were not rude as such, but all made it quite clear that they couldn't be bothered to help and were at times bordering on being rude, in particular the reception staff. The bar staff however could not have been more helpful and friendly.
If you pay full price for this hotel prepare to be not only disappointed but annoyed at the lack of value for money.
I emailed the hotel the day before our stay to confirm that they had internet access, before I packed my laptop! They confirmed that they did. However, this was unavailable for 4 out of the 5 days I was there. When I asked at reception I was simply told 'it doesn't work for us either, we can't even take bookings'. Not the helpful apology/reassurance of when the problem would be fixed that I would have liked.
My main issue however was the attitude of the staff. They were not rude as such, but all made it quite clear that they couldn't be bothered to help and were at times bordering on being rude, in particular the reception staff. The bar staff however could not have been more helpful and friendly.
If you pay full price for this hotel prepare to be not only disappointed but annoyed at the lack of value for money.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2008, Freddie47 said about St Pierre Park Hotel
Two factors influenced our choosing this Hotel: the photos of the lovely gardens in which the property is set; and its close proximity to St Peter Port. Upon arrival, first impressions of the Hotel were favourable. There is a small tinkling fountain in front of the entrance to Reception, the grounds looked well tended, and there is plenty of Car Parking space. The staff member who booked us in was helpful and smartly turned out, and the Public Rooms upon the ground floor are in good decorative order.
Our room was a Junior Suite overlooking the lake, which boasts an impressive jet fountain. Very restful to listen to upon a warm day: but it is only operational when the Hotel is hosting an event.
Our room and bathroom had been decorated fairly recently, with all mod cons. Flat screen TV, DVD player, Mini Bar/Fridge, and small safe which was free of charge to use. We had two comfortable easy chairs and a table, in front of the Patio Doors.
All grades of accommodation have these doors, and just the doors: there are no windows. Slightly inconvenient if one wants a small breath of fresh air, overnight. Facilities do not extend to in room air conditioning. But that is a minor gripe! What previous reviews have said about the dated bathrooms in standard rooms is correct( we peeked in several as they were being prepared for new arrivals) and the avocado is still very much in evidence!
Our bathroom had a white suite, with Power Shower over the bath, and ample shelf space.
I agree with previous comments regarding the evening meals.
The Victor Hugo a la carte Restaurant is closed until further notice, and guests must eat in Cafe Renoir: and, as its' name suggests, it was not created with the notion of catering for regular evening dining. Situated on the lower ground floor, the windows overlook the Childrens playground and Tennis Courts: hardly a picturesque view. The Set Menu does indeed become repetitive, and we too had to look to the a la Carte towards the end of our 6 night stay.(Supplement applies)
A word or two about the staff in Cafe Renoir:mostly language students, and some more customer orientated than others.
You make your Dinner booking for the next day as you go out, and supposedly pick the table of your choice: but it is not uncommon to turn up and find that you have been bumped off, in favour of another guest. The Restaurant Manager,(described as rude by a previous reviewer,) struck us as an oily individual, who showed favouritism: he fawned over some guests, whilst pointedly ignoring others.The layout of the Health Club isn't exactly ideal: showers close to the pool, but the lockers in another room, down a long corridor.And the Jacuzzi isn't in proper working order. Lovely warm water, but very little bubbles. A local gentleman member of the Club, told us that it had 'lost its' oomph', and had been like that for some time.
The Hotel has many good points, and it is an easy 15 minute drive into St Peter Port. Well situated for touring the rest of the island, and for using the capital as a stepping stone for trips to the islands of Herm and Sark: both to be recommended.
However, the Management's attitude to guests welfare is best illustrated by the note which we found had been pushed under our room door, upon our return from an outing,on our last day.We had left at 11 in the morning, and returned at 4 p.m. This missive advised us that the Hotel was hosting a Wedding Reception that night, and that regrettably some degee of noise would be experienced: until 12-45 am.The music belted out two floors directly beneath us, and was deafening.
We had to get up early next day to catch the Ferry to Poole, with a long drive home at the other end. Had the Hotel informed us earlier of the impending celebrations, we would have had the chance to seek alternative accommodation.
Surely a courtesy, as the Reception had obviously been booked with more than a few hours' notice?
Our room was a Junior Suite overlooking the lake, which boasts an impressive jet fountain. Very restful to listen to upon a warm day: but it is only operational when the Hotel is hosting an event.
Our room and bathroom had been decorated fairly recently, with all mod cons. Flat screen TV, DVD player, Mini Bar/Fridge, and small safe which was free of charge to use. We had two comfortable easy chairs and a table, in front of the Patio Doors.
All grades of accommodation have these doors, and just the doors: there are no windows. Slightly inconvenient if one wants a small breath of fresh air, overnight. Facilities do not extend to in room air conditioning. But that is a minor gripe! What previous reviews have said about the dated bathrooms in standard rooms is correct( we peeked in several as they were being prepared for new arrivals) and the avocado is still very much in evidence!
Our bathroom had a white suite, with Power Shower over the bath, and ample shelf space.
I agree with previous comments regarding the evening meals.
The Victor Hugo a la carte Restaurant is closed until further notice, and guests must eat in Cafe Renoir: and, as its' name suggests, it was not created with the notion of catering for regular evening dining. Situated on the lower ground floor, the windows overlook the Childrens playground and Tennis Courts: hardly a picturesque view. The Set Menu does indeed become repetitive, and we too had to look to the a la Carte towards the end of our 6 night stay.(Supplement applies)
A word or two about the staff in Cafe Renoir:mostly language students, and some more customer orientated than others.
You make your Dinner booking for the next day as you go out, and supposedly pick the table of your choice: but it is not uncommon to turn up and find that you have been bumped off, in favour of another guest. The Restaurant Manager,(described as rude by a previous reviewer,) struck us as an oily individual, who showed favouritism: he fawned over some guests, whilst pointedly ignoring others.The layout of the Health Club isn't exactly ideal: showers close to the pool, but the lockers in another room, down a long corridor.And the Jacuzzi isn't in proper working order. Lovely warm water, but very little bubbles. A local gentleman member of the Club, told us that it had 'lost its' oomph', and had been like that for some time.
The Hotel has many good points, and it is an easy 15 minute drive into St Peter Port. Well situated for touring the rest of the island, and for using the capital as a stepping stone for trips to the islands of Herm and Sark: both to be recommended.
However, the Management's attitude to guests welfare is best illustrated by the note which we found had been pushed under our room door, upon our return from an outing,on our last day.We had left at 11 in the morning, and returned at 4 p.m. This missive advised us that the Hotel was hosting a Wedding Reception that night, and that regrettably some degee of noise would be experienced: until 12-45 am.The music belted out two floors directly beneath us, and was deafening.
We had to get up early next day to catch the Ferry to Poole, with a long drive home at the other end. Had the Hotel informed us earlier of the impending celebrations, we would have had the chance to seek alternative accommodation.
Surely a courtesy, as the Reception had obviously been booked with more than a few hours' notice?
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2008, glowpyj said about St Pierre Park Hotel
Lovely hotel, very friendly staff. Rooms where refurbished and filled with up to date equipment, we had a huge flat screen TV and a lovely view of the gardens. Food was fantastic, breakfast was lovely and good start to the day, would highly recommend
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2008, kaleg said about St Pierre Park Hotel
On arrival at the hotel the entrance lobby and the Reception area are fairly impressive. Although I arrived earlier than normal check in I was told that it was no problem. However the Receptionists whilst generally polite did not make me feel especially welcome.
The first room I was allocated did not have a lock that was functioning. As I was travelling on my own on this occasion I called Reception to see if another room was available. Initially I was told that the hotel was fully booked that evening. When I pointed out that it was still only mid morning and presumably not every one had checked in yet I was told that those who were still to check in had probably made their bookings some time ago! Getting a bit exasperrated I told her that I had also booked some time ago, 8 months in fact , and at that point I was offered another room. That room had a connecting door to the next bedroom which was unlocked so again I had to call Reception to get that sorted.
The second room was not in such a good decorative order as the first but it was OK. The room did not have a safe and on enquiring about that I was told that not all rooms have one. Is it me or do other people agree that that is a bit daft? I dare not ask why because I was beginning to feel a bit of a nuisance although in all honesty I should not have because the problems I was encountering were not really of my doing!! Incidentally there was also no mini bar or air conditioning.
The bathroom was in serious need of replacement and such things as tile grouting and bath sealant were not pleasant in places. However the sanitaryware itself was kept clean as was the bedroom.
I only ate in the Restaurant one evening and that was OK. Breakfast was fairly good.
The car park has lots of spaces but could do with a few less thereby allowing them to be wider. Even 'small' cars fitted the spaces snugly so when larger models and 4x4s came along it was reminiscent of sardines in a can.
A couple of tips:
Take the bus into St Peter Port - the stops both ways are not far along the road from the hotel and it's a fixed fare of 60p. I had been told that parking in the town was very difficult and that was certainly the case the only time I tried it. I did not experience any similar problems anywhere else on the Island.
There is a supermarket just across the road and along a bit from the hotel - it's well hidden from the road but is probably the biggest one on Guernsey.
Overall the St Pierre Park was OK for my needs on this particular occasion but it could improve in one or two areas.
The first room I was allocated did not have a lock that was functioning. As I was travelling on my own on this occasion I called Reception to see if another room was available. Initially I was told that the hotel was fully booked that evening. When I pointed out that it was still only mid morning and presumably not every one had checked in yet I was told that those who were still to check in had probably made their bookings some time ago! Getting a bit exasperrated I told her that I had also booked some time ago, 8 months in fact , and at that point I was offered another room. That room had a connecting door to the next bedroom which was unlocked so again I had to call Reception to get that sorted.
The second room was not in such a good decorative order as the first but it was OK. The room did not have a safe and on enquiring about that I was told that not all rooms have one. Is it me or do other people agree that that is a bit daft? I dare not ask why because I was beginning to feel a bit of a nuisance although in all honesty I should not have because the problems I was encountering were not really of my doing!! Incidentally there was also no mini bar or air conditioning.
The bathroom was in serious need of replacement and such things as tile grouting and bath sealant were not pleasant in places. However the sanitaryware itself was kept clean as was the bedroom.
I only ate in the Restaurant one evening and that was OK. Breakfast was fairly good.
The car park has lots of spaces but could do with a few less thereby allowing them to be wider. Even 'small' cars fitted the spaces snugly so when larger models and 4x4s came along it was reminiscent of sardines in a can.
A couple of tips:
Take the bus into St Peter Port - the stops both ways are not far along the road from the hotel and it's a fixed fare of 60p. I had been told that parking in the town was very difficult and that was certainly the case the only time I tried it. I did not experience any similar problems anywhere else on the Island.
There is a supermarket just across the road and along a bit from the hotel - it's well hidden from the road but is probably the biggest one on Guernsey.
Overall the St Pierre Park was OK for my needs on this particular occasion but it could improve in one or two areas.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2008, HappyWandererDevon said about St Pierre Park Hotel
A short stay with a difference, From start to finish we had everything we could desire. This was an aniversary trip to remember. Excellent room and food with friendly helpful staff . Spa and facilities excellent. We will definately be back
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2009, Cambridge50s said about St Pierre Park Hotel
We stayed 3 nights. The hotel was easy to find in our hire car and Guernsey a beautiful destination. On arrival- greeted efficiently but without any elaboration- a map of the 43 acre site would have helped us locate facilities. Jogging paths etc only became apparent by the day we left, when we found an oblique reference to them in some publicity. The tennis courts and pool are execellent but be prepared to shower after your swim, in one location then walk through reception to the changing rooms to get dressed.
The room was mediocre. Although large enough, the door between bedrooms allowed EVERY sound to come through. I heard phone conversations, mid night trips to the loo- the lot.
Despite a fire on the top floor on our last night!! thanks to Bognor Regis RFC - no-one was hurt and the staff dealt with it quite well.
Would I go back? probably not- there are many fine hotels on this island and this one just isn't trying hard enough.
The room was mediocre. Although large enough, the door between bedrooms allowed EVERY sound to come through. I heard phone conversations, mid night trips to the loo- the lot.
Despite a fire on the top floor on our last night!! thanks to Bognor Regis RFC - no-one was hurt and the staff dealt with it quite well.
Would I go back? probably not- there are many fine hotels on this island and this one just isn't trying hard enough.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2009, IreneeAylesbury said about St Pierre Park Hotel
I'd pored over Tripadvisor's reviews of this hotel before booking. We were a little apprehensive as a result. We needn't have been. We stayed 3 nights in a very spacious room overlooking the gardens (at no extra cost). Sure, some of the furniture looked as though it had seen better days but on the whole the room was very comfortable with satellite TV and ample supplies of tea, coffee, speciality teas etc And yes, we had a vintage avocado bathroom suite but - the important thing to us - everything worked perfectly and there were lashings of hot water (enough for a bath, not just a shower!)
One slight fault - the TV remote wouldn't work, turned out it had no batteries. I reported this at reception and, before I made it back up to our room, a member of staff was already there putting matters right! Prompt service or what?
Breakfasts were terrific, the usual wide range of buffet. We both found we couldn't eat again until mid-afternoon. One evening we dined in the Renoir cafe and thoroughly enjoyed our meal, good service too.
One slight fault - the TV remote wouldn't work, turned out it had no batteries. I reported this at reception and, before I made it back up to our room, a member of staff was already there putting matters right! Prompt service or what?
Breakfasts were terrific, the usual wide range of buffet. We both found we couldn't eat again until mid-afternoon. One evening we dined in the Renoir cafe and thoroughly enjoyed our meal, good service too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2009, Larios said about St Pierre Park Hotel
After years of wanting to visit Guernsey finally got there and not disappointed, neither in the island nor the hotel. The hotel a mile plus out of St Peter Port, there is no way it is a walk to town as very hilly but is on the bus route so easy to get in and out in the day or for a meal in the evening. There is plenty of car parking on site.
We were happy with the welcome and found all staff throughout the stay to be friendly & helpful. Room with balcony overlooking lake, clean & comfortable, furniture a little dark & dated but nothing unpleasant. One evening a function was in a room in our area of hotel but we had a letter warning us but it was not too loud too late. Leisure facilities, staff in there very friendly, pool good size and I swum morning and evening. You do change then walk across corridor but they provide towels & robes so did not have a problem. Sauna & steam rooms separate for ladies & gents, which is shame as we enjoy the relaxation together and somewhat old fashioned units. The Jacuzzi is with the main pool but not very efficient. The grounds provided a nice walk and there is a terrace overlooking the lake which is a lovely setting.
Breakfast was included and taken in a large light dining room. Huge buffet selection, as with these the hot food not always as hot as it could have been, but it does not take you long to suss out best approach. As you would expect as well as the usual buffet there was a good range of fruit, cheeses & pastries.
We ate in the hotel one evening and enjoyed the meal and the service, reasonably busy in the restaurant so a good atmosphere.
All in all we were pleased (enough to be having another short break there this summer), room for improvement in some aspects where things just a little dated but nothing to spoil the plus points.
A good base from which to explore the island, we had our own car but lost of buses too. Guernsey itself is lovely and colourful with lots of nooks & crannies to explore, plus it does not take long to get anywhere.
A word about customer service, the company we booked with sent very good booking documents, left a welcome info pack in the room together with their contact details on the island and when back home sent a little box of champagne truffles as a thank you for using them. As is my want I completed the hotel’s feedback form and they wrote to me afterwards saying they had passed on my positive comments to the managers of the units concerned.
We were happy with the welcome and found all staff throughout the stay to be friendly & helpful. Room with balcony overlooking lake, clean & comfortable, furniture a little dark & dated but nothing unpleasant. One evening a function was in a room in our area of hotel but we had a letter warning us but it was not too loud too late. Leisure facilities, staff in there very friendly, pool good size and I swum morning and evening. You do change then walk across corridor but they provide towels & robes so did not have a problem. Sauna & steam rooms separate for ladies & gents, which is shame as we enjoy the relaxation together and somewhat old fashioned units. The Jacuzzi is with the main pool but not very efficient. The grounds provided a nice walk and there is a terrace overlooking the lake which is a lovely setting.
Breakfast was included and taken in a large light dining room. Huge buffet selection, as with these the hot food not always as hot as it could have been, but it does not take you long to suss out best approach. As you would expect as well as the usual buffet there was a good range of fruit, cheeses & pastries.
We ate in the hotel one evening and enjoyed the meal and the service, reasonably busy in the restaurant so a good atmosphere.
All in all we were pleased (enough to be having another short break there this summer), room for improvement in some aspects where things just a little dated but nothing to spoil the plus points.
A good base from which to explore the island, we had our own car but lost of buses too. Guernsey itself is lovely and colourful with lots of nooks & crannies to explore, plus it does not take long to get anywhere.
A word about customer service, the company we booked with sent very good booking documents, left a welcome info pack in the room together with their contact details on the island and when back home sent a little box of champagne truffles as a thank you for using them. As is my want I completed the hotel’s feedback form and they wrote to me afterwards saying they had passed on my positive comments to the managers of the units concerned.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2009, petbren said about St Pierre Park Hotel
The first thing we noticed was the hotel was generally very spacious....so no hassle! Reception was friendly and generally helpful. Our bedroom was good sized with balcony and quite adequately appointed and clean. Breakfast...room huge so no waiting even at peak weekend times....buffet selection and quality good. Dinner....restaurant and food not outstanding but no real complaints. Breakfast and restaurant staff generally young and very helpful, efficient and friendly... always gave you their time and obviously well trained. Car parking...space always availble and convenient. Easy to drive into St Peter Port Centre or regular bus. Stayed 7 nights and one of the best breaks we've had.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2009, JBH2 said about St Pierre Park Hotel
We have just returned from a week at this hotel, and would recommend it without hesitation. The room was very comfortable, and a decent size. All rooms have a balcony or terrace. The bathrooms are a bit tired, but they are of good size, and very clean. The restaurant overlooks the lake, and is very spacious. There is only 1 restaurant at present, as the Victor Hugo restaurant is currently closed - not sure why! The 1 meal we had in the hotel was very good. The breakfast is excellent; loads of choice, and nicely prepared. The staff in the restaurant are most attentive. Overall, the staff are polite, friendly, and nothing is too much trouble.
There are lots of areas to sit, both inside and outside the hotel, and the seating is comfortable.
Plenty to do in the hotel, and the grounds are extensive. Nice 9 hole golf course, and a driving range as well (only £1 for 20 balls!).
The hotel is only 5 minutes drive from St. Peter Port, and has extensive free parking.
We think we did well to pick such a nice place!
There are lots of areas to sit, both inside and outside the hotel, and the seating is comfortable.
Plenty to do in the hotel, and the grounds are extensive. Nice 9 hole golf course, and a driving range as well (only £1 for 20 balls!).
The hotel is only 5 minutes drive from St. Peter Port, and has extensive free parking.
We think we did well to pick such a nice place!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk