A Stylish Hotel in Peaceful Surroundings
Visiting Guernsey has always been a treat. On a recent trip, I received the warmest of welcomes at two of Guernsey’s finest hotels. The 4* Duke of Richmond Hotel and the 5* Old Government House. Both are members of the exceptional Red Carnation Group of Hotels.
Named in honour of the 9th Duke of Richmond, the Duke of Richmond Hotel is believed to be on Guernsey’s very first hotel site. The hotel is set in a peaceful, leafy part of town, at the edge of Cambridge Park. Just a short walk into St Peter Port, this hotel is the perfect base from which to relax and enjoy the many delights Guernsey has to offer.
A Warm Greeting
As I bounded into reception it was immediately apparent that this hotel has more than its fair share of pizazz. The black and white tiled floor, the shiny mirrored furniture, and the white orchids all offer a modern feel. Meanwhile, the zebra-printed chairs and the big cat sculpture were an unexpected taste of African chic.
Duke of Richmond Rooms & Suites
I was warmly greeted by a friendly team at the reception desk who quickly dealt with the formalities before showing me to my room. Each of the 73 comfortable rooms and suites is uniquely designed and decorated in keeping with the rest of the hotel. Comfy beds, soft linen, air-conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, and coffee-making facilities are provided as standard.
There were also numerous plug points for charging my many electrical devices. The bathroom was well-appointed with soaps, shampoos, soft towels, and cosy bathrobes.
The Leopard Bar
On my first evening, I wanted to get under the skin of the much-vaunted Leopard Bar and Restaurant. I pulled up a chair at this trendy, vintage-style bar. On offer was a wide choice of spirits, beers, and cocktails of the week. After a delightful welcome, I sat back, enjoyed the cool jazz sounds, and watched guests of all ages arriving for dinner. This was truly the heartbeat of the hotel.
Duke of Richmond Hotel Restaurants
From the bar, you are led through into the main dining restaurant with its Art-Deco designs, leopard-print carpet, and bronze statues. Chefs prepare their creations in Guernsey’s only glass-walled kitchen, which offers a modern-day twist and a truly unique dining experience. An a la carte menu showcases the chef’s talents. A rich variety of meat, seafood, pasta, and some more traditional options all available with fresh local vegetables and salads. The Guernsey influence is never far away.
A breakfast buffet is served in both the main dining restaurant and the conservatory. The buffet includes a wide choice of pastries, teas, coffees, and freshly squeezed orange juice. The menu contains the classic fry-up, as well as eggs, served in every way imaginable.
For an alfresco experience, there is a beautiful large open Sun Terrace where in the summer, barbeques are prepared. All year round, an afternoon tea menu is popular.
A recent addition to the hotel’s festive programme is their Christmas Domes. These cosy pods are available to pre-book between November and New Year and are guaranteed to provide a unique and memorable experience in a fairy-tale-like setting.
Hotel Facilities
The outdoor swimming pool is heated between May and September, while during the winter months, you can use the facilities of the Beau Sejour Leisure Centre.
The hotel caters for families with kids by providing colouring packs and puzzles, plus upon check-in, children may even receive their very own Duke of Richmond Teddy bear.
As you would expect the hotel can host all manner of conferences, seminars and business meetings. The Hotel are also well-versed in catering for both intimate and lavish weddings.
Duke of Richmond Hotel Contact Information
The Duke of Richmond Hotel is a relaxing choice for a few days if you wish to experience comfortable and stylish surroundings with wonderful hospitality, exquisite dining, and all a stone’s throw from the main sights of Guernsey.
For more information contact the Duke of Richmond in Guernsey on 01481 726221.
Cambridge Park, Cambridge Park Rd, Guernsey GY1 1UY, Guernsey, United Kingdom
For more information on a short break to Guernsey read my blog “48 Hours in Guernsey“.
