The King Alfred Pub

I had a very nice one night stay at the King Alfred pub. The room, while a little on the small side, was fitted with everything that was needed. The bed was comfortable enough. There were a couple of small issues : the kettle needs a longer lead ( you need to unplug it safely pour it) and, being a room over a pub there is background noise until the pub closes. However after that it was pretty silent, and the heavy curtains keep the light out. And any shortcomings were more than made up for by the staff - everyone was helpful, had a smile on their face and made they stay a pleasure - hence the 5 stars.

We really wanted to love this pub because it's in a fantastic location, and the food and drinks are genuinely good. Unfortunately, our experiences over the years have left us feeling unwelcome. The pub promotes itself as being family-friendly, complete with a children's play area, but that hasn't reflected our experience. On numerous visits, our children have been shouted at by management simply for playing and behaving like children in the designated play area. On more than one occasion, we've felt that children playing, or groups of families arriving together, were viewed as an inconvenience rather than being welcomed. Instead of feeling relaxed, we've often felt guilty simply for being paying customers using the facilities the pub advertises. What has disappointed us most is the atmosphere created by the management. We've witnessed customers being spoken about negatively within earshot of others, which creates an uncomfortable environment. Over several years, we've consistently felt an underlying sense of resentment towards us whenever we've visited, and it's reached the point where we no longer feel comfortable returning. It's a real shame because the setting is lovely and the food and drinks are enjoyable. Sadly, feeling genuinely welcome is just as important, and for that reason we'll be taking our custom elsewhere. From conversations we've had, we're not the only local family who has reached this decision.

A traditional pub about a 10 minute walk from the rail station and a similar amount from the city centre, though there is a bus (number 6) which runs every half hour for which the stop is 5 minutes away. The King Alfred does not open until 12:00, so no breakfasts are provided but there are yoghurts, fruit, granola and milk in the room fridge. The staff are fabulous, nothing is a trouble, rooms are clean and comfortable and the evening meals are delicious, especially the shoulder of lamb. The room rates are extremely competitive, great value for money.