St James Hotel BW Premier Collection

Great hotel with a central location, rooms were a good size, despite being absolutely boiling. My only gripe is with the lift. It was black inside which felt extremely claustrophobic, and it drops you quite far when you get to the ground floor and it makes your stomach go funny because it’s so violent!

I recently visited this venue for afternoon tea and really enjoyed the experience. Everything we were served was fresh and very tasty. The coffee and tea were unlimited, which was a lovely touch, and for those who like to celebrate in style, there was also the option to add a glass of prosecco. The presentation was beautiful, with tiers of scones, cakes, and pastries alongside a selection of sandwiches. Personally, I found the balance leaned more towards the sweet side. The desserts were delicious, but for my taste, there were a few too many of them and not quite enough sandwiches or other savoury bites. A couple more savoury options, like mini quiches or cheese and chutney crackers, would have made it perfect. The atmosphere in the place was lively and warm. It was busy during my visit, which suggests it’s a popular spot that many people enjoy. Despite the bustle, the service was efficient, and the staff were consistently friendly and welcoming. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with smiles and made to feel comfortable. The cleanliness also stood out — tables were promptly cleared, and everything felt tidy and well cared for. That, combined with the attentive service, really added to the overall experience. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place for an afternoon tea, especially if you have a sweet tooth. The unlimited hot drinks are a great bonus, and the prosecco option makes it ideal for special occasions. While I would personally have enjoyed a few more savoury treats, I still had a lovely time and left feeling satisfied. I can see why it’s so busy, and I’d be happy to go back again, perhaps trying one of their other menu options next time.

One night single stay, very happy with this hotel. Room was small but I just went for the cheapest one, but nice White Company products and a large fluffy bath sheet. Good selection of teas. Breakfast buffet is small but the cooked breakfast was of a good quality. Proper sausages! And the hotel is in a great position at the top of the city adjacent to the castle