Kingswell Hotel and Restaurant in Vale of White Horse

This is a lovely old pub with a probably 1980/90s hotel extension on the side. Friendly reception and waiting staff. Fairly minimalist old school breakfast although my eggs Benedict (oddly with bacon rather than ham) was tasty and well cooked. I didn’t eat in the restaurant so can’t really comment. The public rooms are older worlde characterful but the general feel of the bedrooms is dated (stained dark wood, chipped furniture, not enough power points, poorly sealing windows, particularly a problem if you are facing the A34 trunk road). Attempts have been made to update (nice bed throws and a capsule coffee machine in the rooms) but it can’t hide the reality. The place needs investment to gut it and bring up to date. Perfectly usable but not a “destination” or up to international standards.

The worst windows etancheity i've ever seen. You feel the cold at 2 meter from the windows. The highway is in your room, you can hear it all night. They didn't lock my door after cleaning. It takes 15-30min to have cook 1 egg each morning.

Always check with Tripadvisor before booking. Lesson learnt. Will not return. Website looks promising as does exterior of building.

We turned up today for drinks and were hoping for lunch. When we arrived it was really strange, there wasn't one car in the car park. The lights were on and signs outside were looking like it was open. We went inside but couldn't find anyone at all, we waiting a few minutes and left. We were there to look for a possible Wedding venue.

We stayed in the hotel for a night for a friends wedding nearby. One staff member completely ruined our experience. They were rude, threatening and snatched medication I asked to be refrigerated from my hand. I had checked in advance that it was ok for them to refrigerate medication as there was no fridge in the room. I felt unsafe and quite scared. When I said the medication was expensive and to please be careful, the response was ‘I don’t care how much it cost’. I was shocked by the lack of professionalism and general rudeness. There was a number to call on the reception desk but when I called it, the staff member complained about the time I was calling. They were also wearing scruffy clothes and flip flops and when another person in our group asked if they were the manager they responded with ‘why? What do you want?’ My friend wanted to make a complaint and they were just directed to do so via Booking.com. The room itself was good! The bed was comfy and it was clean. The water didn’t get hot for a bath but was fine for a shower. Our experience was ruined by one individual.

Comfy bed but tired decor and serious lack of lighting. Disinterested reception . What a pity - it could be pretty good with a bit of effort

I think some of these recent reviews are a bit harsh. OK, the hotel is not a boutique one and they should not use this description as it is creating an expectation that will not be met and so lead to poor reviews. But for all that the hotel is comfortable, the staff friendly and breakfast was fine. The room we had was clean but unfortunately the hand basin was badly cracked. I think this hotel does have potential given the huge increase in Didcot’s population in recent years , but quite a lot of remedial work is required to really bring it up to standard where it just might deserve the word ‘ boutique’

On arriving at the hotel and meeting the receptionist, he made a comment about the fact we had the rooms at an amazing rate (rooms booked on booking.com) but there was an undertone in his voice, as if we had cheated the hotel out of money. It was 4pm when we arrived. We asked if the bar was open and if there was any food on offer. We managed to get a drink at the bar and had crisps and nuts, as no other food was available. My room was in need of refurbishment, the carpet was worn and the fittings dated. We decided to eat out on the evening, but on returning back to the hotel before 10pm, we asked if we could get a drink. The same person served us, but said we could only have a drink outside or in our rooms. We asked why and he said, because I have told you. We got a couple of beers, walked out the bar and sat in the lounge area. He came over and actually swore and told us to either get outside or to our rooms. We asked if it would be okay to stay where we were, we were not causing anyone any harm. Things got a little heated and in the end he swore again and said something under his breath. We finished our drinks and went to bed. The hotel must have been a great venue at one time, The building could be lovely, as its in a great setting. Such a shame that the current owners have let it go a little. Stay well away, until things change.

I’m trying to be fair and objective here, but would not return Good: Bed was comfy , bathroom large, room and reception clean. Check in / check out fine Bad: Road noise was so bad, ear plugs helped a little but could still here road. Also first impression when we arrived was an old car in the middle of the car park with flat tyres

What a bizarre experience when visiting this hotel….. Myself and work colleague booked a midweek overnight stay as we were conducting some training to local engineers. As we arrived around 4.30pm we were greeted at reception by a youngish gentleman with zero personality who told us that we had the room too cheap and should have cost £150 per room and not £75. We explained we had booked it through Booking.com to which he didn’t respond. There was no food available until 6 o’clock and the bar area was shut but we could get served some drinks in the lounge area. As he served us a pint of larger each he asked us if we were going to cause trouble and he had been to court in the past as he’d had trouble with previous visitors !!!! We reassured him that we weren’t going to cause any trouble and just wanted a couple of pints. We had our drinks then went to our rooms. We took a taxi into Didcot for food and returned just before 10pm and the bar was shut again. The same gentleman was there and did serve us a pint each but said we had to drink it outside or in our room !!!! WTF 😂😂 it was unbelievable!! We ended up drinking them in the reception area much to his disapproval. Not sure what hospitality college he had gone too but really should ask for a refund.. Really strange behaviour 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️ definitely not returning, the outside looked shabby inside needs a good decorating rooms are tired and the abandoned car in the middle of the car park just about summed up the whole experience…….

Stayed overnight,room clean and bed very comfortable, wallpaper peeling and shabby in places but didn't affect stay, lovely building but lacked atmosphere. Breakfast very basic, not an unpleasant stay but something is lacking , wouldn't rush back but comfortable stay never the less

I am amazed at the positive reviews , we expected good things after reading them but oh were we let down ! Where to start , room dated and showing signs of wear and tear . Shower cubicle floor dangerously slippy . There was a loud noise intermittently all night , however on raising this with Managers it appears we all have hearing problems as it only lasted 10 mins on one occasion . Whilst I accept it was beyond their control ( a plumbing issue ) a simple sorry would have sufficed instead of hostile defensiveness . Then breakfast was a disaster rock hard eggs in eggs benedict & poached eggs , waitress needs a customer care course . Not allowed to touch the toaster so we were served warm bread with a perplexed look when we raised it . Scrambled eggs crusty on top slimy underneath totally inedible . The experience would have put Basil Fawlty to shame . Restaurant had cobwebs on window . Then we moved outside , garden bench has exposed rusty nails no attempt to make it safe . On trying to explain our dissatisfaction with no request or desire for a discount we were treated poorly .

Lovely place. Very comfortable and spacious room. We ate dinner and breakfast here - both were excellent. We are allergic to everything but the restaurant coped fine. Very attentive service. Lovely areas to sit out - enjoyed a wine in the gardens last night and tea there this morning. Our dog was very welcome and the grounds were big enough to take her a stroll around. Will definitely be back when travelling to the South coast

My short time at the Kingswell would make a good horror film. I stood there ringing the bell at the front desk for a few minutes until someone came. Got to my room and nearly tripped over the ripped carpet by the bathroom. Went to the bar and ordered some nachos and some wine. £31.... I took it and accepted it is a boutique hotel but it did seem a bit much. Nachos came out cold but I was hungry so only ate half of them. Went back for another wine and was told it was £25 for the bottle. £25..... I questioned it and the staff member immediately snatched it off the bar and told me to walk to Asda and get one. THat is over a mile and a quarter away. I was astounded at the attitude of the staff and didn't feel comfortable there so I left. As I left I was confronted again by this staff member who told me to take my stuff and get outside. I had paid £118 for the room, £31 for nachos and a bottle of wine. Yet I'm being told to get my stuff outside. I went on their website this morning and asked to speak to the owner. I got a call an hour later and got shouted at again. I suspect it was the same person. If it wasn't then there are large problems with attitude engrained in this hotel/restaurant. One star is one too many.

It was my family visiting ,I was really impressed by staff ,really very friendly,helpful .Building was good ,well decorated,room was super cleaned and well managed.Parking area is pretty enough .I will certainly be staying here again .

With many pubs and restaurants having to close during Covid, we decided to have dinner at the Kingswell. Why is this lovely place so quiet,? Where's the local support?We had a lovely meal (6 of us) all good home made cooking, limited menu for obvious reasons, would definitely return and you should too!! Get together with a friend or two and support this delightful privately owned establishment - keep it on the map!

Five of us enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Kingswell which deserves an accolade for good service, diverse choice and generous portions. In these difficult times, the Kingswell offers a safe environment and friendly staff in well cared for surroundings.

Simple ingredients cooked really well, with attentive and helpful staff, all of our group enjoyed our evening meals there.

Went with friends and family for an evening meal. The ambience and food were fine and I would have happily given a 4 star review but the service was truly appalling. The waiter who was serving us was surly, curt and showed zero interest in welcoming us. We had gone to enjoy the “eat out to help out” scheme and while it was lovely to get a reduced bill at the end, we left thinking that service was also reduced by 50%. I won’t be rushing back.

We arrived at the hotel and were greeted at reception and given our room. On walking down the corridor to the room we were aware of big square shapes under carpet which look like manhole covers carpeted over, this immediately didn’t seem like something you would see inside a hotel. The room was quite spacious with a bay window and a separate bath and shower in the bathroom. There was a lot of noise from the nearby busy road and the windows were very rotten and could barely be opened and closed for fresh air. We could see daylight through the frames. The actual room was very very dated and dark. With lots of dust on the headboard, splashes on the bin and drawers, lipstick on the cushion and lots of bits on the floor. All just not clean at all. The photos make it look nice, but I was shocked how not nice it was. The bathroom sink had a big crack in it also. The hotel is remote and not near anything. The food was nice and the staff were pleasant. This is just my personal opinion and some people may like dated. There was just no atmosphere there at all. I personally would not return.

We stayed in the hotel last night. Cockroaches scurrying across the floor in the bar and restaurant. Cockroaches in the corridors. Cockroaches in the bedroom. There's far more I could write - all negative.

This family run hotel is situated in a beautiful location. After being here only a few hours we have been made to feel so welcome already. The staff couldn’t have been more helpful and put service at the heart of everything they do. The food was amazing, we had steak, lasagne and macaroni cheese. All were delicious. The room was pleasant, large and clean. The bathroom was also spacious and clean. We will definitely be back.

We visited for a family Sunday lunch. We were made to feel very welcome. Tables were well spaced due the the covid situation.The roast lunch was great both in terms of quality and quantity. Tender beef, loads of different veg and copious gravy.The value for money is excellent for this area. Well liked by everyone.

I do not recommend this hotel at all. They have charged myself and my family for services they could not honour after being closed for coronavirus, despite contacting them and exercising consumer rights in good faith and a reasonable manner.

I took my family for a weekend break to the hotel, we all had a great stay we dined in the restaurant it was fantastic. The staff were so friendly and helpful. We had four rooms altogether all the were very comfortable and clean. We will definitely return

We stayed at the Kingswell for one night as we were attending a dinner in the area. First impressions were fairly positive. Reception wasn’t manned but a chap arrived quickly after ringing the bell. The welcome could have been warmer (the lady on checkout the day after was much better) but it was quick. The room was spotlessly clean and nicely decorated but really lacked attention to detail. The lighting was terrible, no light near the dressing table which made putting make up on difficult. There was no plug in the bathroom sink so couldn’t full the sink and no light above the bathroom mirror just exposed wires. The plug sockets were few and far between, to plug a hairdryer in meant you couldn’t see in the mirror as the plug was too far away. The kettle wire only just reached the plug next to the unit and was a little dangerous as pulled so tight. No lamps next to beds so couldn’t read if other person wanted to sleep. The iron and little ironing board are useful but the steam on the iron can’t be used because you can’t remove the iron from the board to empty it afterwards as it’s fastened on and if the water is left in the iron, it pours out over the floor when folding the ironing board back up. The iron is fixed onto to the (small) board and takes up half the ironing surface too. The bathroom was big with a separate bath and shower with a rainfall head but the position of the shower head is wrong as it’s too close to the wall. The tap on the sink is one you lift up to turn on the tap but a glass shelf has been put immediately above it so you can’t run the tap properly. Breakfast was nice and good quality, the waitress was pleasant but the manager seemed a little bit out of his comfort zone (there were just 5 tables occupied and he was telling someone on the phone that they needed to come down as it was really busy!). Overall, it wasn’t a bad stay and the hotel has the potential to be brilliant but needs someone to fix all the little annoying things to make it so.

We were looking for a place close to motorway , for trip back northMore than happy with room and able to take our dog , the burger we both had with blue cheese was the best we have ever had . Big well done to cook

Starting off no welcoming at reception. Unfortunately, we had bad luck we got passed around 3 rooms. first room the door lock was faulty couldn't get the key out of the door. We were told they had to wait for their maintenance man to come and fix it so, we left the hotel and went into town to let the staff sort our room which we had no problem with. we gave them an hour to sort the room, however on our return the room was not ready and we had to wait in the bar area in the end the maintenance guy couldn’t fix the door. We were given a second room where we had no hot water, I went down to reception again still no one manning the front desk. After the manager had a look at the boiler and they couldn’t find a fault we were told we could move to yet another room luckily no problem with our 3rd room.However, when we booked our night away, we had originally paid for a superior room with a king size bed. we got downgraded from our original room to a standard double. Which we were not impressed with but were told all the other superior rooms were booked. Every time I had to go to reception there was no one manning the desk. breakfast was very poor we turned up to the breakfast area. where the waiter who seemed clueless on how a restaurant worked. We were sat down and asked what drinks we wanted to which we requested 2 cups of tea he then continued to stand at our table without giving us a chance to choose what we wanted eat he asked what we wanted. We asked what was gluten free on the menu and we were told all we could eat was porridge. To which I said we were told last night that we could have a full English without sausage, hash brown and black pudding, he then went to the kitchen to double check and came back to us to tell us we can have everything on the full English which didn’t fill us with confidence when were told the opposite the night before. After we put our order in instead of taking our order ticket straight into the kitchen, he carried on taking other customers’ orders that just arrived. We were sat waiting and he carried on serving the other customers that arrived after us their tea and coffee yet we were still waiting for ours, we then decided that this was ridiculous and told the waiter to cancel our order and we left without eating. We went straight back to our room packed up and went to check out where yet again no one was managing the desk as all the staff seemed to be in the kitchen. After all that had happened, we were given £25 of our bill but this didn’t make up for such a bad stay. We accepted that there was an issue with our first room but everything else that happened after that could have been prevented.To end on a good note- the manager was very good with the fact she gave us a new room and she dealt with the issue quickly enough and was apologetic. but obviously we did notice it was a down grade from what we had payed for. We don’t believe what we had to pay for our stay in the end was justified and we will not be returning.

We went as a large group of family, there were 13 of us, kids, vegetarians and a celiac. We were all catered for very well. The food was fantastic as was the service. This restaurant has a really nice atmosphere and you could easily spend a few hours soaking up the relaxing atmosphere

Charming hotel, rooms defiantly need some TLC but fine for £60 we paid for superior room with breakfast for 2 and they welcomed my small dog! I did like this toiletries though in the bathroom, and the shower was lovely! The rooms need a kettle, the coffee machine thing didn’t work. The only issue with the hotel was the staff, there was no friendly welcome, no staff on the bar and in a whole felt empty, we had to ring the bell each time to get someone to come serve us and even then, they seemed clueless. It all felt quite awkward.. Breakfast was basic and fair, service was poor and again no friendly face about. The restaurant and bar is decorated well, and has potential to be better, if the rooms had some attention and got some friendly staff this place could be amazing! We didn’t eat dinner here, but went to Hart Of Harwell in local village, which I highly recommend!! I guess this hotel is more for business stays rather than couples. But It’s a shame as I think it could be ideal for couples too! Overall though for budget hotel it’s fair...

We stayed here for one night in December and on the whole we were impressed with what we found. Staff were friendly, the room was big with all the necessary facilities. Perhaps could have done with a lick of paint and if you wanted to be really picky you could make a point of the cobwebs in the room. Breakfast was very good; no complaints at all. Would stay again if in the area.

This is the second year we have had our Christmas Party at this venue The staff, the decor and the food for 65 people was excellent

This hotel was booked for a number of family members as we were attending a wedding nearbyI personally found no fault.( maybe the hot water should have been a tad hotter)I booked the superior double room. Room large bed very comfortable also a large bathroom. No real issues with the bedroom, bar area comfortable. Staff all friendly.I'm not a big breakfast eater so for me breakfast was fine(kept the coffee flowing). Hot n cold was the offering.I had a meal with other family n friends. My son ordered the lasagna which he returned as the middle was cold( Microwaved I assumed) .All the others their food was fine, It was above average pub grub , fish n chips and burgers, which was fine.I was surprised to find that after 10.30 pm there was no staff in attendance, and the front door was kept unlocked.Another family member did have issues, blocked bathroom sink, which a plumber was called, no internal maintenance person and for 2x days no hot water, so the children had to have cold baths. A broken z bed.There 1 0r 2 other things which were mentioned to the owner.Upon leaving I did say to the owner it was a pity a family member had issues as I thought it was a nice hotel with a nice comfortable bed.A large car Within a 10minute car drive, there are a number of hotels in the area so there are lots of choices Would I go back I think so.£95 BnB for the night, wi-fi worked everywhere.

Stayed for 2 nights over the weekend due to a family wedding nearby. Arrived on the Friday night quite late and had a delicious meal. We had the ribs which were tasty and melted in your mouth, the curry, which was full of flavour and the steak, which to be honest was a little grissly but enjoyable all the same. Oh and not forgetting the home made nachos, which were a nice change from the norm. They obviously have a very good chef / cooking staff. We then retired into the bar area for drinks, which was nice and relaxing. Our rooms were large, very clean and comfortable with a kettle for hot drinks and a bottle of still and sparkling water. The bathroom was fantastic with a huge shower, which was lovely and hot with great pressure. It was also nice to have a fan, hairdryer and iron if needed - so well equipped. The cooked breakfast in the morning was also delicious, with great tasting tea and good service. I could not fault it although members of my family were missing an item or two from their breakfast, but I am sure if they had said something it would have soon been rectified. They offered a fantastic service whereby they rang and booked 2 taxis for us, which arrived promptly and were reasonable in price. All in all a very enjoyable stay with good service at a very good price (£190 for the 2 nights). Would definitely recommend and stay their again - Thanks for a lovely stay.

Myself, my partner, sister in law and brother in law stayed here for 2 nights as we was attending a wedding nearby. I rang the hotel prior to arriving to double check our reservation as id booked on booking.com and I also wanted to find out what time last orders were in the restaurant and they were very helpful. We arrived at the hotel on the Friday at around 8:30 and went straight to the restaurant before checking in and was quickly seated and served, the food was delicious. First impressions of the hotel was 10/10. We then checked in and also booked our taxis for the next day which was perfect and the gentlemen checking us in was very helpful. The rooms were very nice and clean, the bed was super comfortable and the rainforest shower perfect! We left our room on the Saturday for breakfast and the housekeepers went in, the only problem we had was they only replaced 1 cup and they had left used cups on the side one still had hot chocolate in, and the bedding hadn’t been changed as a used tissue was still in the bed which I must have accidentally left in there the night before also teabags we’re not replaced so we couldn’t have a tea the next morning. We ordered breakfast Sunday morning before we left and 3 of us ordered a full English breakfast, my partner asked for extra beans and no mushrooms or black pudding he received no extra and also no hash brown and my brother in law didn’t even have bacon on his. So overall the hotel was lovely to stay and we would definately stay again if we was that way on just maybe the housekeepers need to take a little more care and attention as well as the waiting staff.

I spent a day and night at the location meeting up with an old school pal. we arrived a little early for the room, however Lauren who met us in reception on checking the room was clean allowed us access early. We stayed in a twin room which was nicely decorated, an extremely large bathroom with new shower. the view wasn't great but to be honest I didn't really care as this was not why we were here. What was particularly useful was a blackout blind which worked particularly well. We both ate lunch and dinner at the restaurant that night which was extremely good value - I ate the chefs special (chicken curry with poppadom, rice and naan which was £13.30) and my friend ate fish and chips. both were very tasty. the staff were particularly attentive and remembered my friends special requirements. Breakfast was equally nice although we both opted for simple fare of porridge and scrambled egg on toast. One thing I would mention though - it would have been nice for a vegan spread for my friend who does not eat dairy.

One of the party asked for a pinot noir and got a pinot gris (red v white wine!). Several people wanted the same dishes for mains & dessert and the waiter had to keep rushing back to the kitchen to check numbers. And we are not talking about a place where he was rushed off his feet. Food was 'fine' - certainly good value.

reception very friendly , owner's very friendly .staff very friendly .. room clean but as other reviews write could be updated but comfortable .. quite nights sleep .. breakfast really good .. waiting staff & Kitchen staff very helpful .. evening dinner was great .. so good my hubby had 2 dessert's as they were soya free .. all staff checked all food before he ate .. very pleased with this service .. if i was in the area again i would stay here

We were greeted warmly at reception and showed to our superior double room which was very roomy and nicel decorated. The staff were excellent efficient and friendly and the breakfast was gragantuan! The only criticism we had was that the evening menu although very nice, was a bit limited.

We stayed at this hotel in late August as were attending a friends wedding. The staff were attentive and professional, the rooms were clean, spacious and comfortable, the food was lovely and the general attitude towards us as guests was second to none. I would love to stay here again and recommend it if you’re staying in the area.

We had let the hotel know when we booked on-line that this was a celebratory lunch as requested on the booking page, but on arrival nobody appeared to be aware of this.The staff were slow taking drinks and food orders even though there were few other guests in the restaurant. As we were in no hurry to eat this was not a problem, but it may effect others.

Had lunch today - food is great and well beyond expectations. Service is very good and friendly. Setting is great although can hear traffic nearby. Staff deserve tips but POS not set up for it - would be good to introduce.

Came down for a birthday breakfast this morning. We live 7 min drive away from the hotel so thought it’s convenient for breakfast. Chose kings well over Marriotts.

Stayed here for one night, due to working in the area, room was clean, but it could of done with a bit of TLC, and looking a bit tired. Had a meal in the restaurant, which was good, and breakfast was ok as well. Friendly and helpful staff. A bit pricey here, but seems to be the going rate for the area. Quiet room, I was on the opposite side to the road, although the bin men came at about 5 in the morning, which woke me up. Not sure I would stay here again though, personal choice.

Looking for somewhere in the area a little different as the big hotel chains are a rip off at times. Comfortable room, decent wi-fi and great food and beer. Would thoroughly recommend.

Booked 2 rooms to accommodate 5 of us. One had a z bed with a mattress paper thin. During the night my son felt an insect on his bed which turned out to be a beetle. We were given an alternative room for my son and husband only to find in the morning that our other room had beetles too. Speaking to the manager in the morning at my discust I was asked to send the video evidence and photo evidence to her via WhatsApp as post control had been out 2 days prior but could not locate an issue. She ( Lauren) deducted the cost of both rooms ( £128 each) from the invoice leaving £86 to pay for food. The invoice was duly paid. However on the same day the hotel then took a further payment of £256 from my card without permission, fraudulently. When challenged that same day they refused to refund the amount taken and refused to provide an invoice for the additional payment taken. I would honestly find somewhere else to stay!

We recently stayed here overnight in order to visit the local area. We booked a standard room and were very pleasantly surprised by the size and comfort of both the room and en-suite. The room had everything we needed and was very clean and the en-suite had both a bath and large, separate shower. We ate in the restaurant on the evening of our stay and found the choice and quality of the food excellent. Our breakfast the following morning was equally delicious and I would have to say, it was one of the best breakfasts we have ever eaten. The staff were helpful and polite and our stay was a very enjoyable experience.

Great little hotel which has a nice bar and restaurant.

Last minute decision to eat out last Sunday evening, and we picked the Kingswell.

Two adults and one child. We had a Superior room with a camp bed for our 11 year old. Lovely big comfortable room. Very clean. Big bathroom with a bath and a separate shower. We had drinks st the bar and dinner in the restaurant. The food (one fillet steak, one curry and one pizza) was delicious. The decor was beautiful. The staff were very friendly and helpful. All-in-all a lovely experience. Additionally we had just phoned in the afternoon for a room for that same night, and the person on the phone was very helpful. We would definitely go back!

After being recommended by a friend we decided to to try the Sunday roast, it did not disappoint. The meat was lovely with a choice of Turkey beef and lamb I had to try all them, plenty of veg choices the cauliflower cheese had to be one of the nicest I've had in a long time.

My mother had expressed a wish for her wake to be held at the Kingswell Hotel, as it had been a place where a lot of our family celebrations had taken place over the years.

I regularly eat in this restaurant and the staff are welcoming, creating a good atmosphere. The food is good and reasonably priced, with plenty of variety to choose from.

Shocking. Upsetting. Angry. Rude. Not words people use to describe a celebration of a Christening, but they are words to describe my experience at The Kingswell.

Thus is difficult. The family who have taken this over are clearly trying. The common areas are lovely. The rooms a immaculate but a bit tired in places. Great toiletries, lovely comfortable bed and pillows, just a bit tired around the edges. Not too keen on the owners toddler running around the bar and not quoted enough staff. The meal, I was in a part of 11, was really well cooked. Interesting things on the menu showing the owner’s Asian heritage, just let down by rather confused and slow service. I didn’t have time to try the breakfast. It is pricey for what you get, charming but ......

Seating is too crowded so therefore too noisy. Not easy for disabled as not enough room on counter to put your plate on to help yourself to the vegetables.

I stayed here for one night while working in the area. The hotel is well presented, clean and furnished particularly well. I was checked efficiently by a friendly young lady and went to my room which was very pleasant and spacious. The facilities included a nice coffee/tea making machine a shower and a separate bath, ironing board, flat screen TV etc I couldn’t really fault it apart from a particularly dusty extraction fan (see picture) which is a pet hate of mine as it’s so easy to fix but is usually one of ty first things you pick up on if you’re a guy using the loo

Quite disappointed considering the price of food and drink, service was slow. Setting was nice and very nice interior but almost too much choice and not A very exciting menu. Unfortunately I wouldn’t rush back

The hotel is comfortable but had no central heating when I stayed in the middle of winter. The noise from a busy nearby road is excessive

There was potential for this hotel/restaurant to have a higher rating except for the part where we were rushed as asked to move to the lounge area after we'd been at our table for exactly an hour.

We had a room to ourselves, which we appreciated. We had pre-ordered our food, and it did not disappoint. The food service was excellent, though some of the drinks orders were a tad slow.

Had a fantastic Christmas lunch, food was excellent, staff were friendly and efficient, lovely atmosphere. This is the 5th time we have eaten here at Christmas and has always been a very good experience. Well done all of you.

We visited on a Friday night and were almost the only people in the restaurant. It’s a nice setting it’s just a shame that the service is slow and the staff need some basic training. For example:

We booked in for a couple of nights at the Kingswell over NYE. Very nice hotel with great rooms and great decor. Very comfortable and appears to have been newly refurbished.

Very disappointed at the poor restaurant service. I had booked for the Sunday carvery and we ordered drinks at the bar that were delivered to the table. We choose our starters and left the menus on the edge of the table which were taken away without the waiter/waitress asking to take our order. We ordered only by catching the attention of one of the waiting staff but were not offered any further drinks. Again, when it came to selecting a dessert we had to catch the attention of the waiting staff. Although it was a Sunday we booked fairly late so earlier parties had departed so I feel there was little excuse for the lack of service. Such a shame because the food was very good.

We went last night for a family get- together and had the Christmas menu (weren't allowed to choose from the regular one). It was very disappointing. The service was very slow and at one point we nearly went to fetch our drinks ourselves - they were all ready on a tray at the bar but nobody seemed to be bringing them. Puzzling, as it was very quiet. My husband had the cod in miso sauce. The rice was gooey and the fish was dry. I think it had been kept hot for a while. My savoury tart tatin was advertised with salad but that was just a handful of rather limp peashoots plonked on top. The turkey was dry and a bit chewy. I had Xmas pudding cheesecake which tasted nothing of Xmas pudding at all. The place itself is very beautiful so maybe they feel that's enough to warrant the price and they don't have to try too hard. I certainly won't be hurrying back.

Excellent service from everyone ,booked and went with 30 people for a Xmas get together,fantastic Carvery ,really busy, so glad a nice family have taken a beautiful building ,nothing is too much trouble .

They are not organised, the kitchen can't seem to cope, and service is very slow. On a table of 6 people, the meal for the first person arrives, then one by one the others arrive, which means that the first person has nearly finished his meal before the last one gets theirs. Not good. Food itself is OK. However, if you ordered the lamb, they had no mint sauce! We went for carvery, but the carvery had broken down, so we went for the normal menu. Meals are very very slow to arrive. Could do a lot better.

Overnight stay on business, many thanks to the lady who did a fantastic job on check-in, bar, waitressing etc etc all in her stride - food was excellent, scallops and a lovely fillet steak with onion rings which I never thought I would eat but devoured the lot. Didn’t hear the A34 at all!

Came on a Sunday later in the afternoon food was really good but the service was horrible baring in mind it was not busy at all by the time we got there. Drinks took ages to come over, told a drink was a larger and it turned out to be. Bitter as told by one of the another waitresses. Also throughout the whole time we were there not one person checked on us on how our food was or if we needed more drinks despite waiters walking by the clean the table next to us. When it came to asking for the bill the waiter rudely asked us to go to the bar. All in all not impressed with the front of house staff who also had a small child behind the bar and then sat on it.

Booked 34 friends and family for a birthday celebration in the restaurant, for the Sunday carvery. The food and service was fabulous, thank you very much!

OK so there was Indian sounding food on the menu but bearing in mind curry is already an anglicised version of Indian food what was delivered was even more anglicised. The papadum was sprinkled with chopped up vegetables which meant the papadum was soggy by the time the last 25% was being eaten. The tikka masala came in a dish with rice on a tray and a very thin nan. Tasty enough but really, if you’re going to entice people to a Curry Night make it as authentic as possible and not like a cordon bleu training exercise. By the way the mango kulfi was not up to scratch either.

Room was great. Excellent value for money. Had to turn on the radiator to get warm room. Shower and bath good. Evening meal choice great and food really good. Bed was great, good choice of pillows. Warm and comfy duvet. Slept well, small amount of noise from A34 but that’s a good thing, as really well insulated hotels, like in Sweden are too quiet and tend to make your head ring. This was great, really awesome breakfast. Great coffee ! I shall be back for Shaw !

This Restaurant had deteriorated over the last couple of years, I had eaten there for lunch several times and found the food to be ok but not outstanding. Now under new management it all all dramatically changed for the better. The service is personal and first class and the food exceptionally good, prices are very reasonably

On first impression The Kingswell Hotel is comfortable, clean, the rooms are well equipped and tastefully decorated. The bar downstairs is also well stocked and the restaurant looked inviting, although we decided to eat out.

A group of fourteen of us arrived here on a Saturday night without having to pre-book our food as is the case with many places catering for larger groups (a practice that I understand but don’t like!). The menu is a little different from the norm with influences from India cuisine. A range of starters and mains were ordered and, given they were cooked from scratch, were delivered in a timely manner. More to the point, virtually all the plates were clean at the end of the meal. One of our group commented that it was the best seafood linguine that he had ever tasted! The service and staff were very good and we will certainly be coming back again in the future.

This has to be one of the best Sunday lunches I’ve had in a long time it was fresh and hot and the beef was delicious the staff were attentive polite I couldn’t fault any thing from the time we arrived until the time we left I would recommend this establishment to any one plus their prices were sensible

Enjoyed this evening and great that non curry fans can have a la carte menu. Very good value for money, pleasant surrounding and staff. Food plentiful and good, couldn't manage full sweet course, so full. Great!

Decided to stay at the Kingswell last week as I haven’t been for about 2 years after a very bad experience. I heard the Kingswell was recently taken over by new owners so decided to give it another try. I must say wow the new management have really turned this place around. Was greeted with warm smiles by the owner and staff. Room was large with amazing showers, and the hotel décor is really amazing. I decided to try their Sunday Roast which they recently introduced, must its by far the best Sunday roast I’ve had to date.

Just arrived home after having another wonderfull Sunday lunch at the Kingswell.

All had sunday roast. Potatoes hard, yorkshires fatty at bottom and hard on top, parsnips chewy. However, beef, turkey and veg really lovely. Venue lovely. Manager (carving meat) very unfriendly and put us off going again

Called in for a pint on passing during quiet hours (3 to 6pm) further to having to cancel a previous booking for dinner. Gorgeous setting and ambience. Staff and Mine Host,Rob, were a delight. Attentive, friendly, relaxed. Menu looks great. Dining room, Snug and bar are beautiful. Can't wait to return and have a meal. Highly recommended. A great example of a lovely country "pub"/hotel that's moved with the times but retains the best of the "old" characteristics and charm. Recently under new management so some of the older low ratings are redundant.

We visited the Kingswell as a family get together to celebrate my Aunt's birthday on a Friday evening.

I recently stayed at the Kingswell Hotel and i must say the food was outstanding as well as the lovely lady on reception. I recall her name was Alisha? very polite and helpful young lady, she made our stay very welcome.

Stayed here for one night. Pleasant staff, particularly in the restaurant where our waitress was very friendly and helpful. Enjoyed our evening meal although we spent more than we would normally. It would be great if a set meal could be offered for guests.

Having visited this establishment in the past we were interested to see what changes the new owners had implemented. We were not disappointed.

Four of us had Sunday lunch at the Kingswell , they serve a great Carvary with fresh ingredients & plenty of it , the staff are really freindly , only thing was the puddings are all heavy could do with a light choice and could do with a slice of bread and butter with the seafood cocktail, will certainly be going again, book by phone as we booked on line and they said they didn't receive it.

Just returned from an excellent lunch with friends at the Kingsmill Hotel, Harwell! This establishment has recently 'changed hands' and is now family run by very attentive staff; the food was excellent, along with the service and setting! Will highly recommend to family and friends!

My partner and I had a fantastic weekend at the Kingswell Hotel. The greeting from staff was warm and the room was much nicer than anticipated. The staff really took an interest in making our stay lovely and a big thank you to Rob the manager and Lauren who were brilliant. The food was excellent too. Well done and thank you for such a great weekend.

Staff exceedingly helpful and efficient and eager to help. Lovely fresh starters, and roast beef perfect, pork, turkey and sea bass also on offer. Plenty of choice of vegetables, lovely rich gravy and plenty of sauces. Had a really good S.African Chenin Blanc. Sweets were nicely presented. Six adults, a toddler and baby were

We had been meaning to visit Kingswell for a while and went along for Sunday lunch today. It’s an old building with tons of character, yet well looked after and immaculately clean. We opted for the 3 course lunch. Both of our starters were delicious. We then had the Carvery which was faultless. Dessert too was excellent. The staff were very friendly and attentive. Overall high quality food at a very reasonable cost. We will definitely be returning.

Recently had Sunday lunch at the kings well and we were very impressed. A carvery is offered on Sunday lunch time and we would not normally choose this - however, we were pleasantly surprised. The beef was cooked perfectly and the roast spuds and parsnips were proper home cooked standard - it was all excellent and the staff were all helpful and friendly. If you fancy a family Sunday lunch ( other days are avaiable) and don’t fancy the washing up then give the Kingswell a try.

We booked the entire hotel to host my 60th birthday weekend. We cannot recommend this hotel highly enough. The rooms were beautifully decorated, the food was excellent.

We stayed at this hotel with a load of friends for a wedding being held locally. The hotel is a good quality, clean and welcoming hotel. Very friendly and helpful staff including making us cheesy chips when we returned at midnight! The hotel is a bit pricey for what it is but I would return is ever in the area again.

We stayed at the Kingswell for two nights as part of a large party who were there to celebrate a friend's birthday. This Hotel has been under new ownership/management for the past few months.

I went to the restaurant with 4 work colleagues we were treated wonderfully from the minute we walked in to the minute we left. The food was cooked and tasted wonderful.

I stayed in a double room on the first floor for 3 nights and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The hotel is well furnished, spotlessly clean and the service is relaxed and friendly. The restaurant is a beautiful room with original exposed beams and the food was excellent. I particularly enjoyed the homemade desserts!

We had a really lovely couple of nights at the kings well. Rooms are comfortable and clean. The di I got room is beautiful and food delicious. The staff especially front of house were fabulous and made us feel extremely welcome.

When on the road with a 4 and 5-year old one tends to be hostage to fortune when it comes to picking somewhere nice for lunch. On this day fortune smiled upon us and everyone got nice food in nice surroundings with warm, friendly service at a reasonable price. Cashback!

The owners have worked hard to make this an attractive and interesting hotel. Although the description 'boutique' is a bit of an overstatement, nevertheless the reception, bar and restaurant areas are well furnished and the room we stayed in was spacious, clean and comfortable. The...