We booked lunch on Christmas Day and it was excellent. The restaurant was full and there was a nice feel to it. There was a welcome drink on arrival and you were shown to your table quickly. Each table was decorated and there were crackers and table displays with your name on it. It was one sitting and you seemed to be served in order of arrival which was a good idea as you had a break in between courses. The sweet potato soup and the fish starters were both really good. 2 of us had the Turkey dinner and you could not fault it. There was lots of Turkey, the roast potatoes were soft and there were plenty of vegetables. The others had the rib of beef which they said was excellent, the meat so soft and tasty and again the potatoes and vegetables were really nice. All desserts we ordered were really great too, we chose sherry trifle, Christmas pudding and apple tart. The staff were really attentive without being over bearing and they all worked really hard. All drinks ordered were delivered quickly. If you are staying here over Christmas we would highly recommend you book the Christmas Day lunch you would not be disappointed.
TonyW268
Was staying in a lodge for 4 nights so ate in the bistro twice, Sunday lunch and one evening. Excellent food and service and nice range of beers. Reasonably priced for its location and no trouble in recommending it, You need to book and can easily imagine in the summer and holiday months this would be extremely busy given we couldn’t find anywhere else close by to eat.
Go00912413618
Ate here twice during the weeks stay. Food was very good and reasonably priced, service was also of a high standard. Couldn't fault and would use again.
Ian J
Ate here on two nights during our week long stay, service was very good and the restaurant was very comfortable. First visit was for two of us and we had very enjoyable food in the restaurant that was not too expensive,plentiful and very tasty too. Second visit for 6 of us and we ate outdoors on the terrace and was just as good, just a shame the outdoor pizza oven was not in use on the night but pizza was being cooked in the kitchen instead. All of our meals were tasty and in my opinion good value. We’ve stayed at Hawkchurch so many times over the years but this is very much the first time eating at the Bistro and it won’t be our last. Seen negative reviews before but we took the opportunity to eat here and we wasn’t disappointed. A shout out to the hard working staff too.
Luke110904
Disgusting staff didn’t check on us at all food was burnt peas were as hard as rocks not worth the money
helenh567
We came here while staying at the resort and enjoyed pizza and pasta evening. Good selection to choose from and we opted for pizzas and were not disappointed. Accompanied by chips and onions rings, we were stuffed! Well worth a visit for a relaxed dinner.
Arc_202
We enjoyed a great time away at this resort The lodge was very spacious and cleaned to a good standard. Some signs of general wear - cracks in walls, discoloured outside area, shower tiles were slightly cracked and discoloured and floors within and around the lodge were very creaky. Plenty of complimentary toiletries & and hot drink making products (including UHT milk pots and hot chocolate sachets). Plenty of towels The beds were comfortable but, again, creaky Staff at reception were very helpful and welcoming. Pantry shop was well-stocked and reasonably priced Our restaurant booking was lost. (I have seen other reviews stating this also.) Luckily, the restaurant was not busy so we were still able to enjoy our meal. Food and drinks were good and well priced - most staff were friendly We did not use the spa facilities but did make use of the hydrotherapy pool. The changing rooms are clean and well-stocked with toiletries. Bins provided for dirty towels and plastic bags for wet clothing. Hair dryers are provided, in a shared area before entering male/female changing rooms. Showers were warm and powerful. The pool could benefit from some TLC. Lots of sand/grit on bottom of the pool, tiles coming off and the waterfall effects did not work - disappointing after seeing lovely pictures of how this could have looked. Only 1 button to start bubbles in the pool - can be awkward if someone is sitting in front of it. 3 in-water hydrotherapy beds. A few loungers in an area next to the pool. View of the countryside and some of the lodges. There was also a sauna and steam room - these were good. Mist shower in between these but rainfall shower could be improved - lots of rust, meaning the water is unable to get out of most the holes. Overall, we had a great stay. Great price for the value. Would have been 5 stars if the waterfall shower pool facilities were working as this was disappointing
MolCheltenham
We have just returned from a weekend break at Hawkchurch, staying in a 2 bedroom lodge with a hot tub, number 29 which had a beautiful view across the countryside. The lodge had been cleaned to a very good standard, with bathrobes and plenty of bath towels. Beds and pillows comfy and good efficient central heating which was needed most days. Lack of storage in both bedrooms, with just wardrobes. Lighting outside the lodge wasn't good, so a torch is needed so you don't fall down the steps at night. Hot tub was a very good size and maintained daily. We used the pool which is quite small, as expected, but has a small sauna and steam room. Nice area to relax We ate at the Bistro, separate TripAdvisor review posted.
darcy95
We have been going here for years and absolutely love the place it’s so relaxing and tranquil. Our lodge was lovely one of the best we have stayed in however a few things are need of repair / upkeep. Nothing major mainly cosmetic. The main problem I have is with the Bistro restaurant we always eat here to support local business however, they definitely need a new chef the last couple of times the food has been basic and mediocre. The menu is boring and basic. However, in the lodge was a leaflet about themed nights Monday to Friday but nothing for Saturday or Sunday when most people take a 3 night short break. PLEASE SORT OUT THE MENU AND CHEF IT IS SPOILING THE BREAK AS ITS NICE AND CONVENIENT TO WALK TO THE CENTRE.
KrisVandetta
Wow. I mean wow. What a fabulous place. A weekend break as a birthday treat for my partner. The lodge was beautiful. Warm and spacious, clean but homely. The facilities were excellent and staff helpful and polite. The weather was a bit interesting but we felt cosy and safe in our lodge. A great escape in a lovely part of the world.
We had a fantastic time in our one bedroom lodge the bed was amazing and comfortable love the roll top bath it was the cleanest holiday let I’ve ever stayed in fantastic facilities Pool and the gym were great we only stayed three nights but wish we were staying for seven Great value
379shelleyr
We booked a family meal for Christmas day. Told be there by midday prompt as only one sitting. Lost my booking, so I wasnt happy, proceeded to tell me not to get stressed (when I pointed out i had just had cancer surgery!!!) We didnt get 1st course till gone 1pm, bought wrong ones, had to wait for 2 right ones, and chase for them.. We didn't get served main course till GONE 2pm. We sat in bar area with 3 other tables who all got served 1st then rest of dining room leaving us LAST. We questioned this and was told the chef plated up easiet 1st? We had 3 turkeys & 1 vegetarian. Hardly rocket science. My meat was cold but I ate it, most of the restaurant had finished by the time we had started, they tried to clear our plates before we had even finished. Even though we explained we got served last. By 2.30pm my 2 year old (having sat so long in highchair) had to be taken home by my husband. Our dessert finally came at 3.10pm,(so my husband missed this) which we bolted down as had family arriving at our home.. other people left with us on mass , some with dessert in takeaways. We had no apologises for the long wait and left very disappointed. Considering I just had life saving surgery and due a long adjacent treatment, we were determined to have a good Christmas. Thankfully a nice wattress got me a cushion to support my back, but 3 hours sitting upright wasnt ideal!! I wrote an email to complain, manager Carla replied who said she would come back to me in 7 days . Never did, even though after a week I sent a follow up email. In a time where hospitality needs people, a bit of good manners would have gone along way. But i guess as they already have our money they are not bothered. Either don't do such a big event, or have several sittings....
Sally C
I am reviewing Christmas lunch, non resident. We were a table of 8 aged 17 to 82. The welcome was lovely and the room nicely decorated. Bread rolls were on the table but no butter provided unless asked for. The mushroom starter was lovely but the soup a little thick. The champagne sorbet tasted lovely and was enjoyed by us all. The meat and potatoes for the main meal came out much earlier than the veg which meant the meat and potatoes got cold and not so enjoyable. The table behind us did not get any veg at all. Dessert was very nice when it arrived after a 55 min wait with no updates on delay from the waitresses who were chatting in a corner. Service was very poor, the waitresses looked disinterested and not engaged in what they were doing. Service appeared chaotic. I know no one wants to work on Christmas Day but unfortunately that is part of working in hospitality as it is for other occupations over the Christmas period. A suggestion for next year could be that there are designated waitresses for each table who ensure that food is delivered in a more timely way and the main course all together. Perhaps 2 waitresses could pair up and do ? 4 tables between them. Introduce themselves to the diners and make it a more interactive experience. I think then tips would roll in for them and make working Christmas Day more lucrative and enjoyable. Just a thought.
LHD28
I rang on the day of arrival, to ask if someone could ring me, when my accommodation was ready. Sure enough they did. We were greeted by a very friendly reception team, with the smell of mulled wine and mince pies. At arriving at the accommodation it was clean, tidy and spacious. We cooked our full Christmas dinner and pudding. Would highly recommend and will definitely be booking to stay again.
Scrappymart
I have been to many Darwin Escapes and they have all been great but Hawkchurch Resort and Spa is the best one yet and doesn’t disappoint. What a gem of a place. Quinn lodge is great for couples with a dog. Bedroom is huge with walk-in wardrobe and dressing area. Neat freestanding bath and double shower. Two toilets and large dining/lounge area. Very clean and well equipped. Got a call at 2pm to let us know our lodge was ready which was a bonus. Park is very dog friendly and even got a dog goody bag in our lodge for when we arrived. Receptionist was very friendly and we even got some mulled wine and mince pies when we checked in. The bar and bistro are great and the hydro pool is fantastic. My wife had a spa treatment also. The location is great for the Jurassic coast with beaches nearby. I thoroughly recommend this place and we will be returning again without a doubt.
We booked lunch on Christmas Day and it was excellent. The restaurant was full and there was a nice feel to it. There was a welcome drink on arrival and you were shown to your table quickly. Each table was decorated and there were crackers and table displays with your name on it. It was one sitting and you seemed to be served in order of arrival which was a good idea as you had a break in between courses. The sweet potato soup and the fish starters were both really good. 2 of us had the Turkey dinner and you could not fault it. There was lots of Turkey, the roast potatoes were soft and there were plenty of vegetables. The others had the rib of beef which they said was excellent, the meat so soft and tasty and again the potatoes and vegetables were really nice. All desserts we ordered were really great too, we chose sherry trifle, Christmas pudding and apple tart. The staff were really attentive without being over bearing and they all worked really hard. All drinks ordered were delivered quickly. If you are staying here over Christmas we would highly recommend you book the Christmas Day lunch you would not be disappointed.
Was staying in a lodge for 4 nights so ate in the bistro twice, Sunday lunch and one evening. Excellent food and service and nice range of beers. Reasonably priced for its location and no trouble in recommending it, You need to book and can easily imagine in the summer and holiday months this would be extremely busy given we couldn’t find anywhere else close by to eat.
Ate here twice during the weeks stay. Food was very good and reasonably priced, service was also of a high standard. Couldn't fault and would use again.
Ate here on two nights during our week long stay, service was very good and the restaurant was very comfortable. First visit was for two of us and we had very enjoyable food in the restaurant that was not too expensive,plentiful and very tasty too. Second visit for 6 of us and we ate outdoors on the terrace and was just as good, just a shame the outdoor pizza oven was not in use on the night but pizza was being cooked in the kitchen instead. All of our meals were tasty and in my opinion good value. We’ve stayed at Hawkchurch so many times over the years but this is very much the first time eating at the Bistro and it won’t be our last. Seen negative reviews before but we took the opportunity to eat here and we wasn’t disappointed. A shout out to the hard working staff too.
Disgusting staff didn’t check on us at all food was burnt peas were as hard as rocks not worth the money
We came here while staying at the resort and enjoyed pizza and pasta evening. Good selection to choose from and we opted for pizzas and were not disappointed. Accompanied by chips and onions rings, we were stuffed! Well worth a visit for a relaxed dinner.
We enjoyed a great time away at this resort The lodge was very spacious and cleaned to a good standard. Some signs of general wear - cracks in walls, discoloured outside area, shower tiles were slightly cracked and discoloured and floors within and around the lodge were very creaky. Plenty of complimentary toiletries & and hot drink making products (including UHT milk pots and hot chocolate sachets). Plenty of towels The beds were comfortable but, again, creaky Staff at reception were very helpful and welcoming. Pantry shop was well-stocked and reasonably priced Our restaurant booking was lost. (I have seen other reviews stating this also.) Luckily, the restaurant was not busy so we were still able to enjoy our meal. Food and drinks were good and well priced - most staff were friendly We did not use the spa facilities but did make use of the hydrotherapy pool. The changing rooms are clean and well-stocked with toiletries. Bins provided for dirty towels and plastic bags for wet clothing. Hair dryers are provided, in a shared area before entering male/female changing rooms. Showers were warm and powerful. The pool could benefit from some TLC. Lots of sand/grit on bottom of the pool, tiles coming off and the waterfall effects did not work - disappointing after seeing lovely pictures of how this could have looked. Only 1 button to start bubbles in the pool - can be awkward if someone is sitting in front of it. 3 in-water hydrotherapy beds. A few loungers in an area next to the pool. View of the countryside and some of the lodges. There was also a sauna and steam room - these were good. Mist shower in between these but rainfall shower could be improved - lots of rust, meaning the water is unable to get out of most the holes. Overall, we had a great stay. Great price for the value. Would have been 5 stars if the waterfall shower pool facilities were working as this was disappointing
We have just returned from a weekend break at Hawkchurch, staying in a 2 bedroom lodge with a hot tub, number 29 which had a beautiful view across the countryside. The lodge had been cleaned to a very good standard, with bathrobes and plenty of bath towels. Beds and pillows comfy and good efficient central heating which was needed most days. Lack of storage in both bedrooms, with just wardrobes. Lighting outside the lodge wasn't good, so a torch is needed so you don't fall down the steps at night. Hot tub was a very good size and maintained daily. We used the pool which is quite small, as expected, but has a small sauna and steam room. Nice area to relax We ate at the Bistro, separate TripAdvisor review posted.
We have been going here for years and absolutely love the place it’s so relaxing and tranquil. Our lodge was lovely one of the best we have stayed in however a few things are need of repair / upkeep. Nothing major mainly cosmetic. The main problem I have is with the Bistro restaurant we always eat here to support local business however, they definitely need a new chef the last couple of times the food has been basic and mediocre. The menu is boring and basic. However, in the lodge was a leaflet about themed nights Monday to Friday but nothing for Saturday or Sunday when most people take a 3 night short break. PLEASE SORT OUT THE MENU AND CHEF IT IS SPOILING THE BREAK AS ITS NICE AND CONVENIENT TO WALK TO THE CENTRE.
Wow. I mean wow. What a fabulous place. A weekend break as a birthday treat for my partner. The lodge was beautiful. Warm and spacious, clean but homely. The facilities were excellent and staff helpful and polite. The weather was a bit interesting but we felt cosy and safe in our lodge. A great escape in a lovely part of the world.
Restaurantji Recommends
We had a fantastic time in our one bedroom lodge the bed was amazing and comfortable love the roll top bath it was the cleanest holiday let I’ve ever stayed in fantastic facilities Pool and the gym were great we only stayed three nights but wish we were staying for seven Great value
We booked a family meal for Christmas day. Told be there by midday prompt as only one sitting. Lost my booking, so I wasnt happy, proceeded to tell me not to get stressed (when I pointed out i had just had cancer surgery!!!) We didnt get 1st course till gone 1pm, bought wrong ones, had to wait for 2 right ones, and chase for them.. We didn't get served main course till GONE 2pm. We sat in bar area with 3 other tables who all got served 1st then rest of dining room leaving us LAST. We questioned this and was told the chef plated up easiet 1st? We had 3 turkeys & 1 vegetarian. Hardly rocket science. My meat was cold but I ate it, most of the restaurant had finished by the time we had started, they tried to clear our plates before we had even finished. Even though we explained we got served last. By 2.30pm my 2 year old (having sat so long in highchair) had to be taken home by my husband. Our dessert finally came at 3.10pm,(so my husband missed this) which we bolted down as had family arriving at our home.. other people left with us on mass , some with dessert in takeaways. We had no apologises for the long wait and left very disappointed. Considering I just had life saving surgery and due a long adjacent treatment, we were determined to have a good Christmas. Thankfully a nice wattress got me a cushion to support my back, but 3 hours sitting upright wasnt ideal!! I wrote an email to complain, manager Carla replied who said she would come back to me in 7 days . Never did, even though after a week I sent a follow up email. In a time where hospitality needs people, a bit of good manners would have gone along way. But i guess as they already have our money they are not bothered. Either don't do such a big event, or have several sittings....
I am reviewing Christmas lunch, non resident. We were a table of 8 aged 17 to 82. The welcome was lovely and the room nicely decorated. Bread rolls were on the table but no butter provided unless asked for. The mushroom starter was lovely but the soup a little thick. The champagne sorbet tasted lovely and was enjoyed by us all. The meat and potatoes for the main meal came out much earlier than the veg which meant the meat and potatoes got cold and not so enjoyable. The table behind us did not get any veg at all. Dessert was very nice when it arrived after a 55 min wait with no updates on delay from the waitresses who were chatting in a corner. Service was very poor, the waitresses looked disinterested and not engaged in what they were doing. Service appeared chaotic. I know no one wants to work on Christmas Day but unfortunately that is part of working in hospitality as it is for other occupations over the Christmas period. A suggestion for next year could be that there are designated waitresses for each table who ensure that food is delivered in a more timely way and the main course all together. Perhaps 2 waitresses could pair up and do ? 4 tables between them. Introduce themselves to the diners and make it a more interactive experience. I think then tips would roll in for them and make working Christmas Day more lucrative and enjoyable. Just a thought.
I rang on the day of arrival, to ask if someone could ring me, when my accommodation was ready. Sure enough they did. We were greeted by a very friendly reception team, with the smell of mulled wine and mince pies. At arriving at the accommodation it was clean, tidy and spacious. We cooked our full Christmas dinner and pudding. Would highly recommend and will definitely be booking to stay again.
I have been to many Darwin Escapes and they have all been great but Hawkchurch Resort and Spa is the best one yet and doesn’t disappoint. What a gem of a place. Quinn lodge is great for couples with a dog. Bedroom is huge with walk-in wardrobe and dressing area. Neat freestanding bath and double shower. Two toilets and large dining/lounge area. Very clean and well equipped. Got a call at 2pm to let us know our lodge was ready which was a bonus. Park is very dog friendly and even got a dog goody bag in our lodge for when we arrived. Receptionist was very friendly and we even got some mulled wine and mince pies when we checked in. The bar and bistro are great and the hydro pool is fantastic. My wife had a spa treatment also. The location is great for the Jurassic coast with beaches nearby. I thoroughly recommend this place and we will be returning again without a doubt.