Local Reviews
In September 2021, Martin W said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
For a 6 night stay in Guernsey, this was the epitome of what I would expect from a 5* hotel.
From the outset, the greeting with champagne was super start to what was to become a fantastic break.
I would like to make special mention of some staff who, in my view went above an beyond for me.
Alessandro, Restaurant Manager was the stalwart of professionalism and service. Always ready to help and ensure the experience was first rate. Nothing was ever too much or too difficult. Honestly, I would love to have Alessandro fronting any of my businesses.
Colin the gardener was extremely knowledgeable about the island and was always happy to have a chat and offer advice on the best places and the best times to visit attractions. As a local Islander, he was full of experiences to share and made my holiday even more enjoyable.
Jonathan in the restaurant was also one of those for whom service came as second nature. Again, great to chat to and was ever helpful but not over attentive - he managed to hit the right balance every time.
The room was luxurious enough and the 'Turn Down' service excellent.
Truly a place to visit again and again.
I am sure we have not seen the last of the OGH.
Would thoroughly recommend this hotel to all!
From the outset, the greeting with champagne was super start to what was to become a fantastic break.
I would like to make special mention of some staff who, in my view went above an beyond for me.
Alessandro, Restaurant Manager was the stalwart of professionalism and service. Always ready to help and ensure the experience was first rate. Nothing was ever too much or too difficult. Honestly, I would love to have Alessandro fronting any of my businesses.
Colin the gardener was extremely knowledgeable about the island and was always happy to have a chat and offer advice on the best places and the best times to visit attractions. As a local Islander, he was full of experiences to share and made my holiday even more enjoyable.
Jonathan in the restaurant was also one of those for whom service came as second nature. Again, great to chat to and was ever helpful but not over attentive - he managed to hit the right balance every time.
The room was luxurious enough and the 'Turn Down' service excellent.
Truly a place to visit again and again.
I am sure we have not seen the last of the OGH.
Would thoroughly recommend this hotel to all!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2021, the wine wally said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
We have stayed in various hotels on the island over the years and looked forward to our stay at the OGH, self reportedly the best hotel on the Island and 5 star to boot.
There was no doubt the impact of COVID had taken it’s toll on the OGH, the staff were tired and adjustments had to be made for the staff shortages they were experiencing. The staff on the ground couldn’t be faulted for their effort, but the experience was far from 5 star, there was a lack of management, in fact I didn’t see or speak to the Manager all week, staff went about their business without adequate direction and didn’t appear to have the level of training you would expect at a 5 star hotel to truly deliver the service you expect and see at other top hotels. Dirty plates were left throughout the hotel for hours, be it the pool area or room service in the corridors. A far cry from the claims made on their website.
The rooms were adequate, but lacked clean lines and warmth. We asked to be moved from our first room as it was so dowdy. We had booked a balcony room, which was a complete disappointment, it isn’t advertised as such, but the vast majority of the balconies are enclosed, with a part sliding window, they have decking on the floor and were so unwelcoming we spent no time at all using it. The website shows the proper balconies, of which there can be no more than 4, so the chances of getting one is not high – a bit more honesty OGH!
The food in the brasserie was average at best, a limited selection and even poorer selection of wines. If there was a full wine list we were never offered it, again given how it was promoted it was big disappointment, we planned to eat their at least twice, but didn’t bother after the first visit.
Location was great, with easy access to the port; town and many other restaurants.
If COVID presented a real opportunity for hotels such as the OGH to showcase what they can do, Red Carnation have missed that opportunity by some distance.
There was no doubt the impact of COVID had taken it’s toll on the OGH, the staff were tired and adjustments had to be made for the staff shortages they were experiencing. The staff on the ground couldn’t be faulted for their effort, but the experience was far from 5 star, there was a lack of management, in fact I didn’t see or speak to the Manager all week, staff went about their business without adequate direction and didn’t appear to have the level of training you would expect at a 5 star hotel to truly deliver the service you expect and see at other top hotels. Dirty plates were left throughout the hotel for hours, be it the pool area or room service in the corridors. A far cry from the claims made on their website.
The rooms were adequate, but lacked clean lines and warmth. We asked to be moved from our first room as it was so dowdy. We had booked a balcony room, which was a complete disappointment, it isn’t advertised as such, but the vast majority of the balconies are enclosed, with a part sliding window, they have decking on the floor and were so unwelcoming we spent no time at all using it. The website shows the proper balconies, of which there can be no more than 4, so the chances of getting one is not high – a bit more honesty OGH!
The food in the brasserie was average at best, a limited selection and even poorer selection of wines. If there was a full wine list we were never offered it, again given how it was promoted it was big disappointment, we planned to eat their at least twice, but didn’t bother after the first visit.
Location was great, with easy access to the port; town and many other restaurants.
If COVID presented a real opportunity for hotels such as the OGH to showcase what they can do, Red Carnation have missed that opportunity by some distance.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2021, David R said about Firstcall
Very professional company. I was fortunate to be in a position where I could be patient and wait till the right job came along, as I was sure it would. Leanne was very supportive and gave really helpful advice. I would thoroughly recommend Firstcall Recruitment
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In August 2021, Flashaah said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
Ok, let me say first that the service at the OGH is truly five star, they absolutely take care of you at every turn from check in to check out. In fact, if you’re used to looking after yourself as I am, it’s a little too much - if you tell me my room number, I’m perfectly happy to walk there without waiting for help! The food is also superb, the breakfast in particular. However, if you are staying in one of the “classic” (standard) rooms, well, I can honestly say I’ve had better, and certainly larger rooms in 3 and 4 star hotels. My room was tiny - barely room to squeeze around the bed. It was all spotlessly clean of course, and the bathroom was stylish, but I would expected squeezy soap and shampoo dispensers in a five star hotel.
However - in the room were the most gorgeous dressing gowns! I was considering “borrowing” one but I was travelling with hand luggage only, and one of those thick Terry towelling beauties would never have fitted in my bag. I would forgive much to be the proud owner of such a fine garment!
However - in the room were the most gorgeous dressing gowns! I was considering “borrowing” one but I was travelling with hand luggage only, and one of those thick Terry towelling beauties would never have fitted in my bag. I would forgive much to be the proud owner of such a fine garment!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2021, stouffer35 said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
A lovely hotel ,with matching Staff. Roberto, " Rocky Marciano", Alexandross All led their young staff well .,even coping with 2 weddings . Free car park has a good Valet park scheme. Lovely. Heated pool . The Brassierie offers varied excellent food with a new fish dish each day . Slight climb from St Peter Port ,but well worth the effort , comfort ,character and friendly . In these challenging times a real " spirit lifter" Thanks !
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2021, Richard L said about Firstcall
Very happy to deal with this company, they are established and professional in every way.
Danella was fabulous to deal with and providing all relevant information. Very confidential company, would recommend them for their service.
Danella was fabulous to deal with and providing all relevant information. Very confidential company, would recommend them for their service.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In August 2021, Jane said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
My family ( husband and my 2 daughters , 11 and 21) and I have just returned from a wonderful 5 night stay. During our stay we felt that nothing was too much trouble - all of the staff were considered and professional and always happy to provide advice and support; be that arranging trips to Sark, through to queries about food and cocktails !
The hotel itself is elegantly decorated and the external areas are equally lovely ; with the outdoor pool limited to hotel guests and surrounded by careful planting that provides a discreet relaxing space .
Finally the breakfast was extensive in range and offer and absolutely delicious !
I do hope to return soon
The hotel itself is elegantly decorated and the external areas are equally lovely ; with the outdoor pool limited to hotel guests and surrounded by careful planting that provides a discreet relaxing space .
Finally the breakfast was extensive in range and offer and absolutely delicious !
I do hope to return soon
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2021, David Sinclair said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
OGH is a magnificent hotel with beautiful views overlooking the harbour and Herm in the distance. OGH has such interesting furniture, artwork and works of art.
The swimming pool and spa are such a bonus.
OGH has an extremely dedicated staff and nothing is too much to please visitors - our fourth visit and it is so good to see so many familiar faces.
The restaurant provides superb food, we have never been more than 100% satisfied.
Even after a horrendous period of close down due to the pandemic, the standards remain as high as they always have been.
Needless to add we look forward to returning to this absolute gem of a hotel. Thank you Andrew Chantrell and the team for again making us feel so welcome.
The swimming pool and spa are such a bonus.
OGH has an extremely dedicated staff and nothing is too much to please visitors - our fourth visit and it is so good to see so many familiar faces.
The restaurant provides superb food, we have never been more than 100% satisfied.
Even after a horrendous period of close down due to the pandemic, the standards remain as high as they always have been.
Needless to add we look forward to returning to this absolute gem of a hotel. Thank you Andrew Chantrell and the team for again making us feel so welcome.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2021, Carey E said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
Back at the OGH again after a break of 4 years, having first stayed 30 years ago with a babe in arms..who has also since returned!
Returned many times since...it is just a fabulous place to stay..staff are sensational-led by Andrew C as General Manager - always smiling and can never do enough for you. Facilities, food and location are fantastic and stress oozes out of you when you cross the threshold and are greeted like an old friend. A real home from home.
We will be back in September!
Returned many times since...it is just a fabulous place to stay..staff are sensational-led by Andrew C as General Manager - always smiling and can never do enough for you. Facilities, food and location are fantastic and stress oozes out of you when you cross the threshold and are greeted like an old friend. A real home from home.
We will be back in September!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2021, jonworld said about Old Government House Hotel & Spa
We loved our stay at OGH. The staff are very unique and friendly and make you feel very welcome. The room was amazing having the balcony with views over the harbour. It was a delight to watch the varying scenes unfold. It was a great mix of traditional formality and yet informal at the same time. I imagine a lot of the team had worked at the hotel for a long time.
The only gripe we had was the Kitchen
We ate in the brasserie in the first night and the meal really was quite unpleasant. The main course of turbot wasn’t very tasty and my partners fish and chips was very greasy we both came away from the meal with unsettled stomachs! We did wonder whether there was a chef issue. Hot breakfasts were very inconsistent varying from waiting 45 mins but tasting hot and fresh to being delivered very prematurely and luke warm like they had been sitting on a buffet in the kitchen. One eggs Benedict had weird hollandaise steeped in vinegar. I tried one again later in the week and t was ok! The breakfast buffet though was excellent as were the waiting staff.
I imagine it must be a tough time with staffing post covid and I was impressed the hotel is up and running again
The only gripe we had was the Kitchen
We ate in the brasserie in the first night and the meal really was quite unpleasant. The main course of turbot wasn’t very tasty and my partners fish and chips was very greasy we both came away from the meal with unsettled stomachs! We did wonder whether there was a chef issue. Hot breakfasts were very inconsistent varying from waiting 45 mins but tasting hot and fresh to being delivered very prematurely and luke warm like they had been sitting on a buffet in the kitchen. One eggs Benedict had weird hollandaise steeped in vinegar. I tried one again later in the week and t was ok! The breakfast buffet though was excellent as were the waiting staff.
I imagine it must be a tough time with staffing post covid and I was impressed the hotel is up and running again
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk