The Claricehouse Colchester

Beautiful views of the lawns, perfect place. Food presented nicely and staff polite. Nothings was too much trouble

Yesterday 30th April we were here as part of a mixed family and close friends group to celebrate our daughter in-laws birthday, the table was booked for 3.30pm sadly on arrival the tea room was nothing less than chaos as a baby shower group were booked in at the same time, neither tables were set so we were left to amuse ourselves while we waited. Eventually the table was set, odd cups and saucers for some reason with latte spoons, milk served in gravy boats with cold tea and coffee. As stated the booking was for 3.30pm we were a little disappointed when the stale sandwiches arrived at 4.30pm, two of the ladies in the group are pregnant so sandwiches which had clearly be left to one side and uncovered containing chicken and salmon were not the best thing to be serving up as finger sandwiches for an afternoon tea! Special trays were set up for the men, (shame because I love stale sandwiches) these were also poor, mini cheese burgers were cold with the melted cheese congealed on the 'burger ' and lettuce leaf, the bun as stale as the sandwiches,this was accompanied by a small slice of french bread which had two small pieces of crumbed fish secured to it by a cocktail stick and congealed partly melted margarine, both were stone cold. In all this was less than poor, we were offered a 10% members discount which I found to be an insult to both the organiser and the girl who 's birthday surprise was spoiled. I did not pay and now understand that those that did are to receive a full refund although they should not have been expected to pay in the first place.

Bog standard fare that is part of a set meal lunch included in spa day .I had fish and chips from a harassed looking water who did his best to keep up poor chap. don't go out of your way if you are not using the gym here.

Light and airy restaurant overlooking the grounds, we had two course lunch with about 4starter choices and mains and dessert courses. The food was delicious, but was left to find condiments from another table.

Had a really tasty chicken and tarragon jacket potato with salad, absolutely gorgeous and very fair price to.