Archived Topic
Topic ID 1895
23/08/2006 by poptart
New Hotel in Hertford
Hi there,
Just moved into the area and I was reading the local paper (can't remember it's name off hand) but it did mention a new boutique hotel opening up in or around Hertford. It was in the recruitment section of the paper and I just wondered if anyone knew anything about it?
Thanks for your help in advance.
PT
0 replies
Archived Replies
Reply ID 24093
23/08/2006 by Steve
Hertford House Hotel. Bang in the centre of town in the building formerly occupied by The Hertfordshire Mercury in Parliament Square. You can't miss it!
[img]../images/hertford_house_hotel.jpg[/img]
Reply ID 24094
23/08/2006 by buzz
This might be the old Hertfordshire Mercury building in Parliament Square
Reply ID 24095
23/08/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by buzz
This might be the old Hertfordshire Mercury building in Parliament Square
Correct.
Reply ID 24119
23/08/2006 by Sargasso
Is it the guy that owns Elbert Wurlings opening it?
Reply ID 24122
23/08/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Sargasso
Is it the guy that owns Elbert Wurlings opening it?
Nick Shipton, correct.
Reply ID 24123
23/08/2006 by Willow
Does it have room for parking?
Reply ID 24125
23/08/2006 by Steve
Valet parking
Reply ID 24126
23/08/2006 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
Valet parking
But do we know where they intend to stick the cars???
Reply ID 24127
23/08/2006 by poptart
Thanks for the quick reply. Don't know if this is a bit cheeky but if anyone knows more information about the site I would love to know more.
Thanks
Reply ID 24129
23/08/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
Valet parking
But do we know where they intend to stick the cars???
In the multi-storey in Gascoyne Way
Reply ID 24131
23/08/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
Valet parking
But do we know where they intend to stick the cars???
That's a good point - I suppose they could always drive them round to Elbert Wurlings.
Out of interest, did anyone else see a copy of the magazine from Elbert Wurlings that was handed out at Hertford East station a few weeks ago? There was a fair bit of blurb in it on the new hotel - but mainly about the concept behind the place rather than anything more specific as I recall. It did sound rather pleasant though and I'll be interested to see what it's like when it opens. Let's face it, any new venture such as this has to be good for Hertford - it shows a huge amount of faith in the future of the town and I hope it is a success.
Reply ID 24132
23/08/2006 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
Valet parking
But do we know where they intend to stick the cars???
In the multi-storey in Gascoyne Way
Will they be safe in there overnight....?
Reply ID 24137
23/08/2006 by buzz
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
Will they be safe in there overnight....?
What do you think?
Reply ID 24141
23/08/2006 by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by buzz
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
Valet parking
But do we know where they intend to stick the cars???
In the multi-storey in Gascoyne Way
Will they be safe in there overnight....?
What do you think?
According to the promotional blurb that was issued some time ago, the hotel was promising to provide secure overnight parking!!!! Well, that definitely answers the question about Gascoyne Way - cars aren't secure in there during the day. But, out of interest,
IF they are going to provide parking in Gascoyne Way, is it safe to assume that some of the parking spaces for 'x' number of cars must be made available to them at all times? If so, surely that will impact on the present shortage of spaces?
Perhaps they will park them behind Pimlico Court which is opposite Elbert Wurlings as that is where most of their customers park now anyway, regardless of the fact that it's for residents only!
Reply ID 24142
23/08/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
Will they be safe in there overnight....?
I'm sure Mr.Shipton is confident they will be. The last thing he would want is dissatisfied customers, just when he's trying to recoup his considerable outlay.
FWIW, I'm not sure it is Gascoyne Way. I heard St.Andrew Street, but NS would obviously want to keep it quiet for security reasons.
Reply ID 24145
23/08/2006 by Avarice
quote:
[i]
Perhaps they will park them behind Pimlico Court which is opposite Elbert Wurlings as that is where most of their customers park now anyway, regardless of the fact that it's for residents only!
Off topic - but in fairness Elbert’s clientele mostly use the tax office car park since it’s empty of an evening. In addition, since Elbert’s virtually ceased operating apart from their small downstairs bar the car park is rarely full.
The area you mention (for guests as residents have their own parking underground) is mostly used during the day by local workers, I assume, who park there and on the double yellow lines. Since it is private land I would assume a clamping/permit scheme would be quite a cash cow for the block of flats as the majority of people parking there is nothing to do with the flats.
On topic: It's quite some venture and bar the obvious problem of parking I hope it does really well - I'm assuming it will have some bar / restaurant element to it too?
Reply ID 24148
23/08/2006 by aea200
There's an article 'Final touches as hotel nears opening date' in last week's Mercury - page 15.
Reply ID 24151
23/08/2006 by sloopjohnb
The rumour currently doing the rounds is that parking for customers of the new hotel will be in dedicated spaces within Gascoyne Way car park.
Reply ID 24168
23/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
The rumour currently doing the rounds is that parking for customers of the new hotel will be in dedicated spaces within Gascoyne Way car park.
If thats true Sloop I am not impressed that the council can reserve/rent out parking spaces in a public carpark to a commercial venture! [}:)] I look forward to a reduction on my Council Tax then!
Reply ID 24173
23/08/2006 by Fish Wife
Hmmmmm.....
Gascoyne Way? St Andrew Street? Does the 'secure' parking for the boutique hotel mean that spaces that are already at a premium for shoppers and workers will be allocated for the sole use of the hotel?
Either way, neither car park is secure.
Reply ID 24183
24/08/2006 by Fish Wife
Off topic - There is no underground parking at Pimlico Court - unless cars are small enough to park down the drains. Keyworker flats have one space in the area at the back. It is often the case that the residents are not able to park in these spaces.
.
On topic - I agree that it is not acceptable that the local council can allocate parking spaces to a commercial venture, but I think we can all kiss goodbye to any hope of a reduction in council tax, as well as the possibility of finding a parking space!
Reply ID 24187
24/08/2006 by Ewoowar
Is there a parking committee that can be lobbeyed?
Reply ID 24188
24/08/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Fish Wife
There is no underground parking at Pimlico Court
I beg to differ. The entrance is opposite Sovereign House.
Reply ID 24194
24/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Whats the big problem, surely the hotel will be paying for the parking spaces and more than likely a premium for reserving them, surely the owners of the cars will be spending money in Hertford therefore boosting its waning economy. Would it be different, if the hotel guests had to park there own cars?? or is it just the fact that a Hertford business man has had a great idea that some cannot stand.
Another point is that as this is a Hertford Forum, I hope I would be right in saying that the majority of posters on here, live in Hertford, that being the case, why do you need parking spaces in the town center????
Reply ID 24195
24/08/2006 by dayday
The thought of Gascoyne Way car park being secure, especially overnight, makes me chuckle that.
Reply ID 24200
24/08/2006 by Willow
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
Whats the big problem, surely the hotel will be paying for the parking spaces and more than likely a premium for reserving them, surely the owners of the cars will be spending money in Hertford therefore boosting its waning economy. Would it be different, if the hotel guests had to park there own cars?? or is it just the fact that a Hertford business man has had a great idea that some cannot stand.
Another point is that as this is a Hertford Forum, I hope I would be right in saying that the majority of posters on here, live in Hertford, that being the case, why do you need parking spaces in the town center????
I asked about parking b/c we have family who come down from 'Up North' & I wondered where they could park there cars if they stayed at the new hotel.
Reply ID 24201
24/08/2006 by Avarice
quote:
Originally posted by Fish Wife
Off topic - There is no underground parking at Pimlico Court - unless cars are small enough to park down the drains.
Last time I checked* there is most definitely underground parking at Pimlico Court.
*last checked this morning when I exited my underground car parking located at Pimlico Court to drive to work [:p]
Reply ID 24227
24/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Is there a parking committee that can be lobbeyed?
oh perleeease!
Reply ID 24230
24/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Would it be different, if the hotel guests had to park there own cars??
Yes Victor, of course it would be different, as in that respect they would have to take pot luck like everyone else to get a space.
I am merely querying why (if the anecdote about reserved hotel parking
is true) we as tax payers are funding a car parking facility which EH Council are seeing fit to raise further revenue on, and in doing so denying parking spaces to the general public.
If this was a private car park such as NCP for example, then it would not be a problem.
Reply ID 24232
24/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Would it be different, if the hotel guests had to park there own cars??
Yes Victor, of course it would be different, as in that respect they would have to take pot luck like everyone else to get a space.
I am merely querying why (if the anecdote about reserved hotel parking is true) we as tax payers are funding a car parking facility which EH Council are seeing fit to raise further revenue on, and in doing so denying parking spaces to the general public.
If this was a private car park such as NCP for example, then it would not be a problem.
I don't recall seeing anywhere in my council tax report that I fund any EHDC car park.
Unless I have missed something?
Where have you seen that Leo?
Reply ID 24245
24/08/2006 by Leo Densian
Pray tell how the car parks are funded then if not from the public purse.
quote:
How much would you charge to park on your drive for the morning whilst I nip into town for a shopping trip Leo?
No..sorry, you've lost me now
Reply ID 24247
24/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Pray tell how the car parks are funded then if not from the public purse.
quote:
How much would you charge to park on your drive for the morning whilst I nip into town for a shopping trip Leo?
No..sorry, you've lost me now
Ok
Reply ID 24256
25/08/2006 by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by Avarice
quote:
Originally posted by Fish Wife
Off topic - There is no underground parking at Pimlico Court - unless cars are small enough to park down the drains.
Last time I checked* there is most definitely underground parking at Pimlico Court.
*last checked this morning when I exited my underground car parking located at Pimlico Court to drive to work [:p]
Yes, quite right, there is underground parking at Pimlico Court....but not for keyworkers who rent their flats. They have 'allocated' spaces at the back of the building that usually contain cars belonging to people who don't live at Pimlico Court...or so my friends who are keyworkers inform me....
Reply ID 24260
25/08/2006 by Admin
Heading off-topic. "New Hotel in Hertford" is the subject.
Reply ID 24266
25/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
So how much of the price of a daily parking ticket goes towards the upkeep of the car park then?????
Don't know Vic and care even less to be honest but lets not get too bogged down in the mire of public finances - I ask again is it right and proper that the council can carve a chunk off a public amenity for the sole use of a private venture?
Reply ID 24268
25/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
If it supports the local economy, which a new hotel will, then yes.
TBH its good to see the local council supporting business in the town center.
Plus theres always the Castle, Birchley Green and Hartham car parks to choose from.
Reply ID 24297
25/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Victor Meldrew Posted - 25 Aug 2006 : 09:47:19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If it supports the local economy, which a new hotel will, then yes.
OK - hopefully it will, but probably only up to a point.
But....this new hotel might have to make the Salisbury raise its game - they have car parking but probably not enough for the amount of rooms they have got. So, should they then go to EHDC and ask for a piece of the action too, how could they be refused? The precedent is set.
And like other posters, I question how the vehicles are going to be safeguarded, short of a permanent security presence. I would suggest the likely target clientele are not going to be turning up in a Metro (no offence intended to Metro drivers [:)]) Were I in the fortunate position of running around around in a Jag or a Merc etc, I don't I'd be too keen in leaving it in that car park all night. If, as has been suggested, its valet parking, does that make the hotel liable for that big scratch from end to end down that lovely 5 Series BMW?
Reply ID 24298
25/08/2006 by Tigger
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
If it supports the local economy, which a new hotel will, then yes.
TBH its good to see the local council supporting business in the town center.
Plus theres always the Castle, Birchley Green and Hartham car parks to choose from.
I'm with you here. Everyone wants the business and as soon as someone tries to enhance the area with a much needed hotel, which will promote the town and result in business increasing there are moans. You would, proir to staying be aware of the parking situation and could make your own decision. What is to say these 'parking spaces' won't come complete with their owm security personnel. I alway's thought the Hotel was getting underground parking - I must have been wrong. Good luck to Nick Shipton with the venture.
Reply ID 24303
25/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Victor Meldrew Posted - 25 Aug 2006 : 09:47:19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If it supports the local economy, which a new hotel will, then yes.
OK - hopefully it will, but probably only up to a point.
So if the hotel has 15 rooms and lets say that if a couple stays for 2 nights, they would more than likely have at least one lunch and one dinner out of the hotel and would probably have around a minimum of 6 drinks per couple in the various pubs, most people that go away for the weekend normally end up buying something from a retail outlet, for arguments sake, lets say something from the likes of Cactus at around £20.
So totting all that up you have
1 lunch £40
1 dinner £60
6 drinks @ £3 ave £18
Shop purchase £20
So I make that £138 min spend per couple X 15 = £2070 per week £107,640 pa.
That does not include the revenue in to the Hotel or the spend of people using the hotel during the week.
Personally I think thats a little more than up to a point.
Good luck to them. I might even stay and use the valet parking myself!
Reply ID 24306
25/08/2006 by Capitalist piglet
Re the car parking, its quite common for town/city centre hotels to use nearby car parks - Crowne Plaza in Nottingham for one. The "up market" Radisson SAS in Liverpool has a car park on open ground a good 5 minutes walk from the hotel - & no valet parking there. And no insult (honest) to the good burghers in either city but I think I'd prefer the Gascoigne way multi any day…..
Reply ID 24309
25/08/2006 by Berbatov
Is this hotel going to get valet parking?
Reply ID 24310
25/08/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
Is this hotel going to get valet parking?
You haven't read this thread from the beginning have you Berb! [:D]
Reply ID 24313
25/08/2006 by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
Reply ID 24323
25/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Reply ID 24326
25/08/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Reply ID 24331
25/08/2006 by Tigger
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Victor Meldrew Posted - 25 Aug 2006 : 09:47:19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If it supports the local economy, which a new hotel will, then yes.
OK - hopefully it will, but probably only up to a point.
So if the hotel has 15 rooms and lets say that if a couple stays for 2 nights, they would more than likely have at least one lunch and one dinner out of the hotel and would probably have around a minimum of 6 drinks per couple in the various pubs, most people that go away for the weekend normally end up buying something from a retail outlet, for arguments sake, lets say something from the likes of Cactus at around £20.
So totting all that up you have
1 lunch £40
1 dinner £60
6 drinks @ £3 ave £18
Shop purchase £20
So I make that £138 min spend per couple X 15 = £2070 per week £107,640 pa.
That does not include the revenue in to the Hotel or the spend of people using the hotel during the week.
Personally I think thats a little more than up to a point.
Good luck to them. I might even stay and use the valet parking myself!
Also added revenue for the town from Business Visitors, not sure if they have meeting facilities but that would mean extra people coming in for the meetings and maybe needing to stay at other hotels in the area. Plus entertainment. All adds as a positive for Hertford which I'm sure we all want.
Reply ID 24333
25/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Still a bit small for Euro-style enterprise parking thoughts. I want the old market town back for market-town shopping and people alike.
Reply ID 24335
25/08/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Still a bit small for Euro-style enterprise parking thoughts. I want the old market town back for market-town shopping and people alike.
Let's de-install the electricity while we're at it.
Reply ID 24336
25/08/2006 by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Still a bit small for Euro-style enterprise parking thoughts. I want the old market town back for market-town shopping and people alike.
Let's de-install the electricity while we're at it.
Errr ????
Reply ID 24337
25/08/2006 by Tigger
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Gas lamps - now there's an idea Ewoowar - No electricity. Carts, no cars. Could sort out all road and parking problems. Only where would we put the stabling for the Horses at the local drinking establishments? Good for those with Roses [:o)]
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Still a bit small for Euro-style enterprise parking thoughts. I want the old market town back for market-town shopping and people alike.
Let's de-install the electricity while we're at it.
Errr ????
Reply ID 24338
25/08/2006 by Capitalist piglet
quote:
Originally posted by Capitalist piglet
Re the car parking, its quite common for town/city centre hotels to use nearby car parks - Crowne Plaza in Nottingham for one. The "up market" Radisson SAS in Liverpool has a car park on open ground a good 5 minutes walk from the hotel - & no valet parking there. And no insult (honest) to the good burghers in either city but I think I'd prefer the Gascoigne way multi any day…..
May have to do a 180 on this one after hearing that my mate "Hairy's" car was vandelised in Castle Street after the Castle Street Party . Maybe an open space car park in the centre of Liverpool is a better bet.. bit sad that..
Reply ID 24342
26/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
So totting all that up you have
1 lunch £40
1 dinner £60
6 drinks @ £3 ave £18
Shop purchase £20
So I make that £138 min spend per couple X 15 = £2070 per week £107,640 pa.
Didn't do the business plan for the Old Vicarage Tea Rooms did you Vic? [:D]
Seriously though, I'm not going to debate your numbers as they are pure supposition. I will agree that the hotel can only be good for the town and wish it well.
It just does not sit easy with me that public amenities are supposedly being rented off to private enterprise. Whats next - a dedicated swiming lane at Hartham?
Reply ID 24350
26/08/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Berbatov
quote:
Originally posted by Ewoowar
Many hotels in European cities also have valet parking.
And Hertford is a small market town, not a European city.
Well spotted.
I was simply pointing out that thi is not an entirely new concept.
Still a bit small for Euro-style enterprise parking thoughts. I want the old market town back for market-town shopping and people alike.
Let's de-install the electricity while we're at it.
Errr ????
I mean how far do you want to take the town back?
The town should be able to exist with a small hotel. In fact it should bring more people in.
Reply ID 24417
29/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
It just does not sit easy with me that public amenities are supposedly being rented off to private enterprise. Whats next - a dedicated swiming lane at Hartham?
We better hope they do not drive on our roads and hope they can float 6 inches off our pavements too then. Oh and can they please take their rubbish home with them. What about Hartham? Should all visitors be charged to enjoy a stroll around that as well?
Reply ID 24419
29/08/2006 by Steve
I think you've missed the point Victor. If what I read above is correct, a number of car parking spaces are to dedicated to Hertford Hotel in return for a payment. Using your analogy above. would it be OK for the pavement outside the Hotel or that part of Fore Street to be dedicated solely for hotel use only in return for a payment as well?
Reply ID 24422
29/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
I think you've missed the point Victor.
There's understatement if ever I saw it!
Reply ID 24429
29/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
I think you've missed the point Victor. If what I read above is correct, a number of car parking spaces are to dedicated to Hertford Hotel in return for a payment. Using your analogy above. would it be OK for the pavement outside the Hotel or that part of Fore Street to be dedicated solely for hotel use only in return for a payment as well?
No that would be taking things way too far. I just don't see why everyone is getting so hot under the collar about what is potentially only 10-20 spaces. Would it still be a problem if they did not have specific allocated spaces, but the hotel still used the car park???? Surely then they would still be being rented off to a private enterprise, as the hotel will no doubt be charging a premium for valet parking.
As I have said before, the hotel would probably want all the cars to be parked in the same part of the car park, that could be covered by the hotels own CCTV camera, that is the only possible way they could offer secure parking (other than gating off the area as well)
And Leo, I haven't missed your point, I just do not agree with it.
Reply ID 24431
29/08/2006 by jez_p
Victor has a valid point - Hertford needs visitors and they have to park.
What is the difference between a hotel paying for 10 parking spaces and 10 people staying at the hotel parking their cars in the same car park?
Big fuss about nothing if you ask me.
Reply ID 24433
29/08/2006 by Steve
I think the point here is public resources being allocated exclusively to a private company, in this case the allocation of spaces in a public car park to a private business, thereby depriving the public (local taxpayer) of access to that public resource.
quote:
What is the difference between a hotel paying for 10 parking spaces and 10 people staying at the hotel parking their cars in the same car park?
The difference is that the public would have equal access to the spaces. Allocating them to the Hertford Hotel takes the spaces out of the public domain.
Personally, I'm not too bothered about this particular case, but the principle worries me.
Reply ID 24434
29/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
Would it still be a problem if they did not have specific allocated spaces, but the hotel still used the car park
No problem whatsoever Victor. It would be first come first served for any available spaces - ie. a fair system!
quote:
Big fuss about nothing if you ask me.
Perhaps, jez_p, perhaps not. Its simply a point of principal.
A hypothetical scenario for you then - its a busy Saturday, you need the Post Office say, and you've gone down Fore St. a couple of times but parking is impossible. So, you want to park in Gascoyne Way car park - all available spaces are occupied apart from a handful which are empty. You can't use them however because they are reserved for hotel guests and you will no doubt risk a wheel clamp perhaps if you do. Can you honestly say you would then drive round to try your luck at Bircheley Green or St Andrew St. car parks happy the hotel guests have somewhere to park - or would you be grumbling under your breath??
Reply ID 24435
29/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
But as I said, it honestly cannot be more than 10-15 spaces, as I cannot see there being many more rooms than that in the hotel (I maybe wrong) Fair enough if it was a 100 room place, but its not.
Reply ID 24440
29/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
But as I said, it honestly cannot be more than 10-15 spaces, as I cannot see there being many more rooms than that in the hotel (I maybe wrong) Fair enough if it was a 100 room place, but its not.
1/10/100 spaces - the principle is essentially the same Vic.
Reply ID 24441
29/08/2006 by Andrew
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
Would it still be a problem if they did not have specific allocated spaces, but the hotel still used the car park
No problem whatsoever Victor. It would be first come first served for any available spaces - ie. a fair system!
quote:
Big fuss about nothing if you ask me.
Perhaps, jez_p, perhaps not. Its simply a point of principal.
A hypothetical scenario for you then - its a busy Saturday, you need the Post Office say, and you've gone down Fore St. a couple of times but parking is impossible. So, you want to park in Gascoyne Way car park - all available spaces are occupied apart from a handful which are empty. You can't use them however because they are reserved for hotel guests and you will no doubt risk a wheel clamp perhaps if you do. Can you honestly say you would then drive round to try your luck at Bircheley Green or St Andrew St. car parks happy the hotel guests have somewhere to park - or would you be grumbling under your breath??
Or you could walk/take the bus into town and not need to worry about parking at all in which case this whole thread becomes irrelevant. If there are 10 guests with 10 cars they have to park somewhere so what is the problem?
Reply ID 24443
29/08/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Andrew
Or you could walk/take the bus into town and not need to worry about parking at all in which case this whole thread becomes irrelevant. If there are 10 guests with 10 cars they have to park somewhere so what is the problem?
Just like Victor, you're avoiding discussion of THE PRINCIPLE. Setting aside the question of the parking spaces,
is it right that public resources (ie provided by public authorities for the benefit of the public) are rented out exclusively to private companies? Reply ID 24444
29/08/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Andrew
Or you could walk/take the bus into town and not need to worry about parking at all in which case this whole thread becomes irrelevant.
As is that line of argument Andrew! This is not a private/public transport debate.
Reply ID 24445
29/08/2006 by Avery
No it is wrong that a private company should be able to lease parking spaces that are provided for public use (we the tax payer). Will our council tax go down if a company lease out the spaces, I think not, and who will be responsible for the upkeep of these leased spaces?
Reply ID 24454
29/08/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Andrew
Or you could walk/take the bus into town and not need to worry about parking at all in which case this whole thread becomes irrelevant. If there are 10 guests with 10 cars they have to park somewhere so what is the problem?
Just like Victor, you're avoiding discussion of THE PRINCIPLE. Setting aside the question of the parking spaces, is it right that public resources (ie provided by public authorities for the benefit of the public) are rented out exclusively to private companies?
NO STEVE I AM NOT AVOIDING IT, I DO NOT AGREE WITH IT.
Just because someone does not agree with one of your principals or a principal that you agree with does not mean they are avoiding it.
Reply ID 24457
29/08/2006 by buzz
I agree that local authority parking spaces should not be "sold off" to a private enterprise to the detriment of the public. It seems surprising that the Hotel got planning permission without having dedicated parking included in the application. BTW, has it been officially announced that there will be hotel parking at Gascoyne Way?
Reply ID 24465
29/08/2006 by Willow
Anyone know if the hotel has a website yet?
Reply ID 24468
29/08/2006 by Berbatov
Who at the Council has actually confirmed that GW car park is to be used by the hotel?
Reply ID 24483
30/08/2006 by Avarice
I think that Elbert Wurlings has a small car park of its own in the corner of the tax office / Sovereign House’s big car park.
Now that Elbert’s is solely a small lounge bar in the basement of the building its trade has diminished considerably. So, the need for parking has also reduced (plus patrons could always use Sovereign House’s parking in the evenings anyway). Perhaps the hotel is planning just use this area since it is owned by the same people, usually empty and virtually around the corner anyway?
Reply ID 24722
05/09/2006 by twojays
I, for one, and delighted there is competion to Macs in town.
Am amazed at the issue with parking, though. If there is no parking at the hotel amd that is an issue to you, then don't book there.
Why bring in the council run parking spaces into the equation?
The two don't come in hand in hand.
Reply ID 24723
05/09/2006 by twojays
.
Reply ID 24746
05/09/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by twojays
I, for one, and delighted there is competion to Macs in town.
Am amazed at the issue with parking, though. If there is no parking at the hotel amd that is an issue to you, then don't book there.
Why bring in the council run parking spaces into the equation?
The two don't come in hand in hand.
Sorry - I dont think you have totally grasped the principle that was being debated.
Reply ID 28917
25/10/2006 by kakapo
quote:
Originally posted by Admin
Useful link:
http://www.hertford-house.com/
A website proofreader wasn't their first appointment then...[;)]
Reply ID 28919
25/10/2006 by James007
The General enquired.
Hertford House Hotel. I have images of a western now.
Reply ID 28924
25/10/2006 by Bengeobabe
Their afternoon tea will be the final nail in the coffin of the Old Vicarage Tea Rooms. Shame...!
Reply ID 28938
26/10/2006 by newcomer
quote:
Originally posted by Admin
Useful link:
http://www.hertford-house.com/
Argh! Anything useful is in a pdf! I guess it makes it feel more exclusive and prestigous, but it's just annoying![:(!]
Reply ID 28940
26/10/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by newcomer
Argh! Anything useful is in a pdf! I guess it makes it feel more exclusive and prestigous, but it's just annoying![:(!]
Exactly my reaction. All the links from the home page are PDFs. Beaver, the St.Andrew Street company that did the site, are usually very good but this is just poor design.
Reply ID 28941
26/10/2006 by andleicester
Will the car park spaces been monitored? Maybe car minders will be present.
Reply ID 29106
30/10/2006 by shopgirl
Is there a definite date for opening as yet, I hope he has an open evening for local business people ....... Pop an invite in the post Mr Shipton!! lol.
Reply ID 29113
30/10/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Does anyone know if they will be offering valet parking for diners?
Reply ID 29403
02/11/2006 by bec501uk
I drove past it this morning and it looks like it is open to the public. May I just say as well how smart and stylish it looks, I will have to go for dinner or a drink there very soon and have a bit of a nose around.
Reply ID 29404
02/11/2006 by Avarice
It was open last night (opening night?) lots of smartly dressed middle-aged plus walking there (no sign of cars pulling up to be driven off my a valet though). The bar looked very smart.
Reply ID 29436
03/11/2006 by Dude
Does it have an normal open bar to the public?
Reply ID 29441
03/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Was in there last night, very smart, nice polite staff, music at a normal level and reasonably priced drinks @ £3 a pint.
Reply ID 29444
03/11/2006 by And
What beers do they sell? Anything decent?
Reply ID 29446
03/11/2006 by Mad Mick
I bet they are looking forward to their first friday night in ayia napa (sorry Hertford!), good luck and well done on only opening a week later than published i say!
Reply ID 29449
03/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by And
What beers do they sell? Anything decent?
Larger brewed by Carlsberg especially for them, a blonde beer, Guinness and London Pride.
Reply ID 29486
03/11/2006 by Whoopeedo
quote:
Originally posted by Mad Mick
I bet they are looking forward to their first friday night in ayia napa (sorry Hertford!), good luck and well done on only opening a week later than published i say!
Bouncers on the door? Sorry, I suppose most of the girls that queue for the pubs wear bras.
Yes, good luck. What's Greek for Good Luck?
[;)]
Reply ID 29686
05/11/2006 by Rachel
The shame [:I]
Mr Rach and I wandered along to the new hotel to have a drink and check it out last night, about 8.30-ish - and we were turned away by the bouncer! [:(] I haven't felt such hot-faced shame since the routine humiliation of trying to get into uber-cool nightclubs in the 1980s. The bouncer said they were full, but that was rubbish, I'm sure. When we walked past again after an hour in the Salisbury (yeah, our money was good enough for Macs! [:)]) it looked much fuller in the hotel bar.
Has anyone else been in and can tell me what I have missed by failing to fit the profile of their desired clientel? (I blame Mr Rach and his Matalan jacket [:I])
Reply ID 29687
05/11/2006 by James007
I have to ask the question:
Was there REALLY a bouncer on the door of this hotel?
Reply ID 29694
05/11/2006 by Rachel
Yes, there was a bouncer. And I've just seen further up the thread that Victor Meldrew got past him! [:0][:)]
How does that make me feel! [xx(][:)][:)][:I]
Reply ID 29714
05/11/2006 by Leo Densian
Oops - teething troubles strike. It was all in darkness inside tonight as (according to the scribbled note on the window) they are unable to open due to an electric power problem.
Ironically, all the exterior lights were working and it looked really nice from the outside!
Wonder what happens for the guests that are booked in?
Reply ID 29725
05/11/2006 by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Oops - teething troubles strike. It was all in darkness inside tonight as (according to the scribbled note on the window) they are unable to open due to an electric power problem.
Ironically, all the exterior lights were working and it looked really nice from the outside!
Wonder what happens for the guests that are booked in?
That's always assuming they have any guests booked in.....I can't see the shopfitters and scaffolders being able to afford their prices, and like Rachel who feels Mr Rach's Matalan jacket was the reason they were refused entry, what chance do the men in rigger boots and tool belts who are the regular users of B&B in town have?
[:0]
Reply ID 29734
05/11/2006 by Bengeobabe
i phoned up and tried to book in for lunch today, to check the place out. The staff were very friendly and found it very amusing that on their opening weekend, the electricity had gone! As a side note, they welcome children, have highchairs and even do a children's menu.
Reply ID 29748
06/11/2006 by Dude
I went in for a few drinks with some friends on Friday night at 11.30.
I thought it was great. Its in the style of Baroosh or Snug, but better, and without the thumping music and cattle. It was fairly quiet (we got a table no problem).
The beer is better priced than Baroosh and the Snug and the table service actually came with a smile.
Reply ID 29755
06/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
For anyone that has been in there, it is blatantly obvious why they need doormen on busy nights.
Reply ID 29756
06/11/2006 by Frenchie
quote:
Originally posted by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Oops - teething troubles strike. It was all in darkness inside tonight as (according to the scribbled note on the window) they are unable to open due to an electric power problem.
Ironically, all the exterior lights were working and it looked really nice from the outside!
Wonder what happens for the guests that are booked in?
That's always assuming they have any guests booked in.....I can't see the shopfitters and scaffolders being able to afford their prices, and like Rachel who feels Mr Rach's Matalan jacket was the reason they were refused entry, what chance do the men in rigger boots and tool belts who are the regular users of B&B in town have?
[:0]
I think thats the point - they dont want the mainstream B&B guest in the bar. They are pitching themselves at couples & professionals etc that are more happy paying the higher prices and then maybe having dinner, not the men staying in the B&B's that want to have a few pints and kill a few hours. It is after all been very clear that its a positioning itself as luxury and conceptual.
Reply ID 29764
06/11/2006 by justin
whats the food like victor?
Reply ID 29769
06/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
quote:
Originally posted by justin
whats the food like victor?
Dunno yet, it looked and apparently taseted ok, but I didnt eat there. In my view its not the place for a quite meal as some of the tables are right next to the bar, but maybe the booth tables towards the kitchen maybe a little quieter.
Reply ID 29828
06/11/2006 by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Oops - teething troubles strike. It was all in darkness inside tonight as (according to the scribbled note on the window) they are unable to open due to an electric power problem...
And a man in a Matalan jacket carrying an electric cable cutter was seen running from the scene... [:)] Yeah, Mr Bouncer, how you like me now..? [}:)]
Reply ID 29841
06/11/2006 by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Oops - teething troubles strike. It was all in darkness inside tonight as (according to the scribbled note on the window) they are unable to open due to an electric power problem...
And a man in a Matalan jacket carrying an electric cable cutter was seen running from the scene... [:)] Yeah, Mr Bouncer, how you like me now..? [}:)]
You made me laugh [:D]
Reply ID 29891
07/11/2006 by Rooster
Rumour has it that the Health and Safety people have closed the hotel for a week because of electrical issues. Can anyone confirm this?
As I say, it is just a rumour.
Reply ID 30020
07/11/2006 by Rooster
Well, it was closed tonight when I passed. In fact it was in total darkness.
Reply ID 30075
08/11/2006 by Mad Mick
I heard (and this is not a rumour) that a business gent due to stay there one night either earlier this week or late last week was turned away despite having a reservation!
Reply ID 30077
08/11/2006 by SMT
Apparently closed until Monday due to electrical problems.
Reply ID 30243
09/11/2006 by Willow
I walked past about an hour ago & it was open & had a few people in.
Reply ID 30245
09/11/2006 by James007
quote:
Originally posted by Willow
I walked past about an hour ago & it was open & had a few people in.
Possibly the bank manager and the electricianados maybe?
Irony that the Mercury will probably have a field day with this tomorrow.
I hope it does thrive and is constantly booked up when it does re-open.
Reply ID 30283
10/11/2006 by Frenchie
Anyone walked past today and seen if its open again ?
Reply ID 30284
10/11/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Frenchie
Anyone walked past today and seen if its open again ?
According to the Mercury, it's going to re-open on Monday
Reply ID 30286
10/11/2006 by nora batty
Very odd story in the Mercury, I thought. Sacked the manager... retraining the staff... no guests booked in... going over to the dark side...
Reply ID 30295
10/11/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Very odd story in the Mercury, I thought. Sacked the manager... retraining the staff... no guests booked in... going over to the dark side...
It looked open when I went by around 5pm - well, the lights were on at any rate.
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
Reply ID 30298
10/11/2006 by Tigger
Walked past about 10 mins ago - lights on but nobody in so assume not open - don't say The Mercury got it right for once [}:)]
Reply ID 30300
10/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
I think he'd probably been working there for more than two days! In fact I'd expect him to have been there for weeks. It would be foolish in the extreme to have the manager start work just two days before opening. He's responsible for running the hotel, so if it has to close in the first week, who's responsible?
Reply ID 30302
10/11/2006 by James007
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
I think he'd probably been working there for more than two days! In fact I'd expect him to have been there for weeks. It would be foolish in the extreme to have the manager start work just two days before opening. He's responsible for running the hotel, so if it has to close in the first week, who's responsible?
Err, the owner ultimately.
I find his comments interesting:
"It was chaos at the weekend and I thought service could have been smoother.
"I don't want people coming in and going away unhappy. We decided rather than go on at 50 per cent, we had to get the problems sorted out."
Mr Shipton, who owns the Hale Road bar Elberts, said:
"It took me back to the opening weekend at Elberts, which was chaos too. The scale of this project is much larger.
"But I was very happy with the level of interest and the way people were taking to the seafood."
Poorly managed, but the halibut was ok!
Nice.
Reply ID 30303
10/11/2006 by NI-Lad
Local rag mentioned that the owner (Nick?) sacked the general manager..!
NI-Lad
Reply ID 30304
10/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by NI-Lad
Local rag mentioned that the owner (Nick?) sacked the general manager..!
NI-Lad
This is discussed in the posts preceeding yours
Reply ID 30308
10/11/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Very odd story in the Mercury, I thought. Sacked the manager... retraining the staff... no guests booked in... going over to the dark side...
It looked open when I went by around 5pm - well, the lights were on at any rate.
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
If you have ploughed money and effort into an enterprise like the hotel you must have 100% confidence in your General Manager.
Reply ID 30309
10/11/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
I think he'd probably been working there for more than two days! In fact I'd expect him to have been there for weeks. It would be foolish in the extreme to have the manager start work just two days before opening. He's responsible for running the hotel, so if it has to close in the first week, who's responsible?
OK - 2 days
open to be precise (or was it 3?). Anyhoo, if all the blurb was to be believed he was a top bloke with experience from London hotels etc. I would have thought that if he couldn't cut the mustard he would have been sussed before the hotel actually opened.
Scapegoat?
Reply ID 30330
11/11/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Giving the general manager the push after only 2 days seems a bit extreme though. Must be a great atmosphere in there at the moment..
I think he'd probably been working there for more than two days! In fact I'd expect him to have been there for weeks. It would be foolish in the extreme to have the manager start work just two days before opening. He's responsible for running the hotel, so if it has to close in the first week, who's responsible?
OK - 2 days open to be precise (or was it 3?). Anyhoo, if all the blurb was to be believed he was a top bloke with experience from London hotels etc. I would have thought that if he couldn't cut the mustard he would have been sussed before the hotel actually opened.
Scapegoat?
I reckon you keep good staff rather than make examples, especially in the case of the head man.
Reply ID 30391
12/11/2006 by Dude
I have been informed that the Bar Manager quit on the first Saturday, and the Assistant manager quit on the Sunday. Then they closed it down.
Reply ID 30650
16/11/2006 by Frenchie
Is it open now ?
Reply ID 30663
16/11/2006 by Mr P
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
I have been informed that the Bar Manager quit on the first Saturday, and the Assistant manager quit on the Sunday. Then they closed it down.
What on earth is going on!? This is a big investment and surely to open with a bang would be better than acrimony and negative speculation.
I hope it all works out for him soon.
Reply ID 30730
17/11/2006 by Fish Wife
We drove past the hotel tonight at about 11.45pm and I have to say it looked lovely - the lighting in the windows and on the stonework and statue looked very attractive.
[:)]
Reply ID 30735
17/11/2006 by Mad Mick
Lovely and Open or Lovely and Shut?
Reply ID 30758
17/11/2006 by nora batty
Nick Shipton - Prince of Darkness.
Reply ID 30815
17/11/2006 by Fish Wife
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Nick Shipton - Prince of Darkness.
Hee hee, but I shall giggle no more about
that comment.
[}:)]
As previously mentioned, the hotel looked lovely, stunning in fact. I
think it was lovely and open - I could see people at the windows who I assumed were real and not cardboard cut-outs.
Reply ID 30838
18/11/2006 by Ewoowar
I went in last night. There was a good atmosphere and the staff were friendly.
Reply ID 30929
20/11/2006 by shunt
Strange how tastes can vary. I found the the social atmosphere somewhat sterile and the actual atmosphere so tainted by a Billingsgate aroma that my whole party hurried their drinks to escape feelings of nausea. Nothing wrong with the decor but a bar which smells like a wet fish shop is not for me.
Reply ID 30936
20/11/2006 by Ewoowar
quote:
Originally posted by shunt
Strange how tastes can vary. I found the the social atmosphere somewhat sterile and the actual atmosphere so tainted by a Billingsgate aroma that my whole party hurried their drinks to escape feelings of nausea. Nothing wrong with the decor but a bar which smells like a wet fish shop is not for me.
I didn't notice the Billingsgate effect.
Reply ID 30938
20/11/2006 by spitfire
quote:
Originally posted by shunt
Strange how tastes can vary. I found the the social atmosphere somewhat sterile and the actual atmosphere so tainted by a Billingsgate aroma that my whole party hurried their drinks to escape feelings of nausea. Nothing wrong with the decor but a bar which smells like a wet fish shop is not for me.
That is worrying, dodgy electric fittings can give off a fishy smell.
Reply ID 30939
20/11/2006 by Dude
Hotel closed again yesterday.
Reply ID 30940
20/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
Hotel closed again yesterday.
Entire hotel or just the bar?
Reply ID 30941
20/11/2006 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
Hotel closed again yesterday.
Entire hotel or just the bar?
Not sure if it was the whole thing. The bar and resturant were not open. Staff were told they were closed to sort our more problems.
Reply ID 30947
20/11/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by spitfire
quote:
Originally posted by shunt
Strange how tastes can vary. I found the the social atmosphere somewhat sterile and the actual atmosphere so tainted by a Billingsgate aroma that my whole party hurried their drinks to escape feelings of nausea. Nothing wrong with the decor but a bar which smells like a wet fish shop is not for me.
That is worrying, dodgy electric fittings can give off a fishy smell.
Agreed spitfire - sounds like overheating light fittings maybe as they can do that.
The whole thing seems to be descending into farce!
Reply ID 30948
20/11/2006 by nora batty
Electrical-faulty Towers
Reply ID 30955
20/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Why farcical? If its the electrics, don't blame the owners/management, commend them on shutting down for safety of there customers and workforce. If the blame should be portioned anywhere it should be towards the contractors that did the work.
I hope that all the problems can be resolved as soon as possible, as its a great addition to Hertford.
Reply ID 30992
20/11/2006 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
Why farcical? If its the electrics, don't blame the owners/management, commend them on shutting down for safety of there customers and workforce. If the blame should be portioned anywhere it should be towards the contractors that did the work.
I hope that all the problems can be resolved as soon as possible, as its a great addition to Hertford.
Err...at what point did I blame anyone Vic?
It open..its closed..its open..its closed = farce. Who's to blame is not for us to say.
Reply ID 31016
21/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Depends on the way that you look at it, personally I do not think its comical, I think its a shame. I hope that they get all their teething problems out of the way very soon and enjoy a very busy festive period.
Where did I say that you blamed anyone Leo?
Reply ID 31020
21/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
Where did I say that you blamed anyone Leo?
In your response to Leo's post you wrote "don't blame the owners/management"
Reply ID 31022
21/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
That was a reply to several posts Steve.
Reply ID 31117
22/11/2006 by The Informer
Hotel unlikely to reopen for at least three weeks according to worker in nearby hostelry.
Reply ID 31118
22/11/2006 by Steve
They're taking bookings for the end of the month
Reply ID 31119
22/11/2006 by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by The Informer
Hotel unlikely to reopen for at least three weeks according to worker in nearby hostelry.
That's bad. [:(] A difficult blow to recover from, if it's true. No-one wants to see this business fail, it would be bad for the town and from what I saw of it (when I got past the bouncer!) it was a good establishment that deserved to succeed.
Reply ID 31121
22/11/2006 by Willow
The hotel is open for room reservations but the bar & restaurant are temporarily closed.
Reply ID 31122
22/11/2006 by azzza
I stil wonder that the fact there is no actual parking facilities or unloading bay for the hotel will contribute to it's demise.
Reply ID 31123
22/11/2006 by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by azzza
I stil wonder that the fact there is no actual parking facilities or unloading bay for the hotel will contribute to it's demise.
Demise?! Blimey. The place hasn't even got going yet. That's a bit pessimistic.
Reply ID 31124
22/11/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Willow
The hotel is open for room reservations but the bar & restaurant are temporarily closed.
Who would want to stay in a hotel with no bar and no restaurant?
Reply ID 31125
22/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Deveraux
Who would want to stay in a hotel with no bar and no restaurant?
One would hope that their prices reflect this
Reply ID 31126
22/11/2006 by Ewoowar
Perhaps 'The Office' will be up and running before them after all.
Reply ID 31127
22/11/2006 by azzza
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by azzza
I stil wonder that the fact there is no actual parking facilities or unloading bay for the hotel will contribute to it's demise.
Demise?! Blimey. The place hasn't even got going yet. That's a bit pessimistic.
Well, like any business, success depends on a good cash flow and a good reputation, .. neither of which seem to be present here at the moment.
Reply ID 31129
22/11/2006 by The Informer
Would anyone make a booking for the hotel/restaurant while all this is going on ?
Reply ID 31136
22/11/2006 by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by Willow
The hotel is open for room reservations but the bar & restaurant are temporarily closed.
Residents must be served their breakfast in the main restaurant/bar area, there is no-where else. So if it is possible to cook breakfast and serve guests there, I wonder why is it closed to non-residents?
Reply ID 31138
22/11/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by Willow
The hotel is open for room reservations but the bar & restaurant are temporarily closed.
Residents must be served their breakfast in the main restaurant/bar area, there is no-where else. So if it is possible to cook breakfast and serve guests there, I wonder why is it closed to non-residents?
Maybe it's room service only - either that or a voucher for Barney's Grill ....
Reply ID 31140
22/11/2006 by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by Deveraux
either that or a voucher for Barney's Grill ....
[:D] LOL!
Reply ID 31162
22/11/2006 by James007
quote:
Originally posted by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Willow
The hotel is open for room reservations but the bar & restaurant are temporarily closed.
Who would want to stay in a hotel with no bar and no restaurant?
An anorexic tee-totaller.
Reply ID 31188
23/11/2006 by justin
i hope it succeeds, maybe i wont be surprised if they refurb the whole bar/dining concept.
And i believe they have also bought churchills next door.
Reply ID 31193
23/11/2006 by Victor Meldrew
Heard that last night as well. Planning on putting the restaurant on the ground floor in there, more rooms above and making the bar/restaurant just a bar.
Reply ID 31197
23/11/2006 by The Informer
I heard last night that it [the hotel] is up for grabs if anyone has £3.5 milllion going spare.
Reply ID 31202
23/11/2006 by Frenchie
I wonder if the manager knew somthing we didnt and left of his own accord...
Reply ID 31203
23/11/2006 by Leo Densian
Its rumour after rumour now! We'll just have to wait for tomorrows Mercury to get the truth methinks.. [:)]
Reply ID 31204
23/11/2006 by The Informer
You mean another story about it being the electrics ?[;)]
Reply ID 31222
23/11/2006 by bikeman
This thread is better than Coronation Street and Emmerdale put together, I just can't wait for the next installment.
Reply ID 31225
23/11/2006 by David Yates
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Its rumour after rumour now! We'll just have to wait for tomorrows Mercury to get the truth methinks.. [:)]
I admire your trusting nature that what you read in Friday's Mercury will be accurate.
Reply ID 31231
23/11/2006 by plover
quote:
Originally posted by bikeman
This thread is better than Coronation Street and Emmerdale put together, I just can't wait for the next installment.
wouldn't Crossroads be more relevant?
Reply ID 31234
23/11/2006 by bikeman
quote:
Originally posted by plover
quote:
Originally posted by bikeman
This thread is better than Coronation Street and Emmerdale put together, I just can't wait for the next installment.
wouldn't Crossroads be more relevant?
Good point, although that was a drama based in a hotel that was open, this is a drama in a hotel that is open/closed/open/closed/????
Reply ID 31239
23/11/2006 by Tigger
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Its rumour after rumour now! We'll just have to wait for tomorrows Mercury to get the truth methinks.. [:)]
From the MERCURY? If we read it backwards it may be the truth.
At least Mr Shipton now has the publicity to encourage the curious and when the problems are sorted the curious one's may return and recommend it
Reply ID 31243
23/11/2006 by Dude
Should I amend my food review of the venue to a review of Hertford House Hotel Version 1? [;)]
I really hope they get it sorted. Even though they had problems, they have done a great job bringing a project like this to near completion. The building looks great, and the additional tourism is always a good thing.
Reply ID 31377
25/11/2006 by OldCross
Heard its closed (Bar/Restaraunt) until 2007 now.
Reply ID 31378
25/11/2006 by James007
quote:
Originally posted by OldCross
Heard its closed until 2007 now.
Me too.
Reply ID 31380
25/11/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by OldCross
Heard its closed until 2007 now.
You mean the bar and restaurant is closed until 2007. The hotel is open.
Reply ID 31384
25/11/2006 by Frenchie
By any measurement - if the bar and restaurant is closed over next 6 the highly lucrative weeks then there is more problems than just finding a bar manager and a few staff that can survive a busy Fri night, take half booking only in the restaurant if you have to. Something is very very wrong here.
Reply ID 31386
25/11/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by OldCross
Heard its closed until 2007 now.
You mean the bar and restaurant is closed until 2007. The hotel is open.
Maybe Steve, but I really can't see how they can define the Hotel as being open if the restaurant and bar remain closed. If they were to say that we can offer rooms for the night then yes - that's true: But that really isn't what a Hotel of this purported quality is all about.
When I pick a hotel I look at the whole thing - I am booking somewhere where I can relax and wind down at the end of the day. I don't want to have to wander back into town to get something to eat - let alone get a drink.
I had really high hopes for this place and what it could do for the town. But at present, sorry, but something about it just doesn't seem right.
Reply ID 31388
25/11/2006 by Admin
Please be careful about what you post here. If you claim that the hotel is closed when it is in fact open, that could constitute defamation. Nick Shipton might be able to afford a fancy lawyer but Discover Hertford Online can't! As the publisher of the forum we are liable in such cases.
Reply ID 31390
25/11/2006 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Admin
Please be careful about what you post here. If you claim that the hotel is closed when it is in fact open, that could constitute defamation. Nick Shipton might be able to afford a fancy lawyer but Discover Hertford Online can't! As the publisher of the forum we are liable in such cases.
Fair enough Admin - please delete the post
Reply ID 31392
25/11/2006 by Admin
quote:
Originally posted by Deveraux
Fair enough Admin - please delete the post
No need as there's nothing defamatory in your post. A couple of others I've had to remove and one or two I need to seek advice on.
Reply ID 31404
26/11/2006 by codek2
quote:
Originally posted by Admin
Please be careful about what you post here. If you claim that the hotel is closed when it is in fact open, that could constitute defamation. Nick Shipton might be able to afford a fancy lawyer but Discover Hertford Online can't! As the publisher of the forum we are liable in such cases.
actually thats not true. never has been either - there was a recent ruling which stated that isps and hosts can't be held responsible for content posted.
Reply ID 31405
26/11/2006 by Admin
quote:
Originally posted by codek2
actually thats not true. never has been either - there was a recent ruling which stated that isps and hosts can't be held responsible for content posted.
That ruling was in the California Supreme Court and applies only to US internet providers.
If you're offering to pay our legal costs next time we're approached by someone who feels they've been libelled or defamed, I'll be more than happy to oblige you.
From the BBC:
[url="
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/5230776.stm"]Free speech, libel and the internet age[/url]
Reply ID 31406
26/11/2006 by Herbert Lemons
It's a minefield this. Simultaneously not allowed to chatter about the relative trading status of a business yet practically encouraged to use the review forums to vent about how good or cr*p it is...
Reply ID 31408
26/11/2006 by Admin
quote:
Originally posted by Herbert Lemons
It's a minefield this. Simultaneously not allowed to chatter about the relative trading status of a business yet practically encouraged to use the review forums to vent about how good or cr*p it is...
Expressing an opinion is one thing, stating as a fact something which is not, is another. I don't make the law, but unfortunately I have to make sure that this forum stays within it. Fortunately for you Herbert, the worst thing that will happen is that your post will be removed. I, on the other hand, would have to deal with a lawyer and his angry client pursuing redress.
Reply ID 32253
12/12/2006 by Rachel
I've heard from two sources now that the hotel is for sale for £3.5 million. [:0] I can't substantiate whether or not it's for sale, despite a quick trawl round the internet. Does anyone know anything? [?]
Reply ID 32257
12/12/2006 by James007
Heard the same today too.
Reply ID 32263
12/12/2006 by Rachel
The Informer posted this news first on this thread on 23 November and I'm now hearing it from other people but whether their source is the same as The Informer's I don't know! [:)] That's the trouble with rumours!
Maybe the Mercury will stir itself by Friday and tell us a few facts about what's happening to the hotel and whether it's for sale.
Reply ID 32268
12/12/2006 by buzz
Rachel!! Have you taken leave of your senses, or are you on some mind influencing substances? To use the words "Mercury" and "facts" in the same sentence is surely an aberration!!
Reply ID 32269
13/12/2006 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Rachel
The Informer posted this news first on this thread on 23 November and I'm now hearing it from other people but whether their source is the same as The Informer's I don't know! [:)]
... or maybe people are reading it here and passing it on and it's getting back to you as "another source"!
Reply ID 32280
13/12/2006 by azzza
quote:
Originally posted by buzz
Rachel!! Have you taken leave of your senses, or are you on some mind influencing substances? To use the words "Mercury" and "facts" in the same sentence is surely an aberration!!
Well said Buzz... The Mercury got it wrong once again in their obsession in pursuing tabloid news .. RE: Jordan and Peter Andre buying a house in Watton at Stone ..... I had to chuckle at their 'backing down' note on page 4 this week ... it said that 'Jordan and Peter have never looked at the house and the house isn't for sale' ....and this non-story made the front page the week before, pathetic ... sorry, off-topic..... back to the hotel..
Reply ID 32284
13/12/2006 by Frenchie
Apparantly Jordan & Peter are looking at buying Hertford Hotel..[;)]
Reply ID 32387
15/12/2006 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by Frenchie
Apparantly Jordan & Peter are looking at buying Hertford Hotel..[;)]
I hope they do. They could sing songs from their wonderful new album in the bar! Maybe Jade Goody to serve drinks up front of house while Sol Campbell covers the rear! [:D]
Reply ID 32554
18/12/2006 by simcut
why are people so against the hotel? give it a chance once it is run properly, which it is right now....then draw judgements!
Reply ID 32561
18/12/2006 by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by simcut
why are people so against the hotel? give it a chance once it is run properly, which it is right now....then draw judgements!
Who's against it? I have tried to wade through the off-topic clutter on this thread to find any negative comments and there are hardly any. Everyone wants to see this business succeed and become an asset to our town.
It is definitely for sale, privately, for £3.5 million. I think we should get a consortium of Hertford Onliners together to raise the funds to buy it! We have the vision and the commitment to the town - all we need is the money! [:)]
Reply ID 32573
18/12/2006 by The Informer
Agreed Rachel, and Sim, the place cannot be said to be running properly until it opens again to the Great Unwashed and not just folk residing there or having booked their office Christmas dinner.
Reply ID 32674
18/12/2006 by simcut
Lets all draw judgement once it opens again!
Reply ID 32709
19/12/2006 by The Informer
Glad you agree Sim that it's not open as such[:D]
Reply ID 32710
19/12/2006 by Tigger
Could we ask Gordon Ramsey to pay a visit[:D]
Reply ID 32733
19/12/2006 by The Informer
Tigger, I would settle for some highly trained and toned to perfection barstaff[:D]
Reply ID 33392
05/01/2007 by Michael
What's the word on when this place is reopening to the public?
Reply ID 33397
05/01/2007 by The Informer
There are notices in the window advertising for various positions within but no definite date as to when it will be open to all and sundry.
Reply ID 33724
11/01/2007 by azzza
So what's the latest news on our new Hotel? ... has it opened for food and drink to non-residents yet?
Reply ID 33735
11/01/2007 by The Informer
In a word....no
Reply ID 33992
15/01/2007 by Jo S
The hotel is up for sale - I heard from people who are looking for a restaurant/food business to buy in Hertford and apparently this is now on the market.
Reply ID 33999
15/01/2007 by Tigger
quote:
Originally posted by Jo S
The hotel is up for sale - I heard from people who are looking for a restaurant/food business to buy in Hertford and apparently this is now on the market.
Well, I wish someone would buy the thing and give us something to put Hertford on the Map. Looking forward to going there - 4 weeks until I am really OLD - Mr Tig????????
Reply ID 34006
15/01/2007 by Della Cook
No wonder they are challenged in the staffing department...was speaking to someone who phoned up to enquire about a position there and the manager was very surly and couldnt give a hoot if he made a good impression or not. Was very negative and the pay was not good at all...pay peanuts get monkeys as they say. They just thanked them and put the phone down.
Reply ID 34009
15/01/2007 by Jo S
Exactly. I know someone who went for an interview there as a bar manager. They couldn't or wouldn't deliver on his required salary (which was reasonable and competitive), so he isn't going to work there. Surely at this stage paying an additional couple of thousand on a salary is a very small issue compared to the calamity this hotel has been through so far?
If you have good, experienced staff then you have much more likelihood of pleasing customers (or simply being able to remain open in the first place..!)and delivering the first class service this establishment needs to deliver now in order to rescue its public image. If you don't then you have the situation the hotel has been in up until now - sitting there with an urgent need to start bringing money in but for one reason or another, not being able to. I would think that the only way this situation could get even worse if it were to re-open and have bad service and have to close again. I would imagine that would mean that it would be beyond redemption.
Seems like it would be a prime candidate for a visit from Gordon Ramsey to show how not to do things [;)]
Reply ID 34010
15/01/2007 by Leo Densian
Well, they are still after staff:
[url]http://www.gumtree.com/london/32/7275032.html[/url]
Note the spelling mistake - very ironic! Or maybe its not a mistake [;)]
Back in the mists of time in this thread I suggested this place had become a farce (and was criticised as a result from some quarters). Nothing's happened (literally) to make me change my mind - and thats very sad. [V]
Reply ID 34011
15/01/2007 by Leo Densian
Correction - 2 spelling mistakes (and they are both open to interpretation!)
Reply ID 34012
15/01/2007 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Note the spelling mistake - very ironic! Or maybe its not a mistake [;)]
LOL!
I was also amused by "
Anti spam: Do NOT contact me offering services or anything of a commercial nature." - like any spammer is going to take notice! The simple fact is that if you publish your email address on the web, spammers will pick it up and add you to their database and sell it on to other spammers. I don't think they're going to be troubled by a polite request not to send spam! (in fact the "spiders" that harvest email addresses won't even see it).
Reply ID 34013
15/01/2007 by buzz
Perhaps there is a subliminal message here! "Exiting" and "out head chef" seem to convey a message.
Reply ID 34095
16/01/2007 by simcut
enough negativity or what?
Reply ID 35034
02/02/2007 by The Informer
According to Hotel manager in the Mercury today, the bar is open to all from Monday...but only after 10pm when dining is finished. That's okay then....[:(!]
Reply ID 35036
02/02/2007 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by The Informer
According to Hotel manager in the Mercury today, the bar is open to all from Monday...but only after 10pm when dining is finished. That's okay then....[:(!]
Interesting, but risky strategy....
Reply ID 35044
02/02/2007 by nora batty
Well I'm thinking positively and have booked for St.Valentine's Day. Hope they don't close again before that 'cos they've got my cash...
Reply ID 35046
02/02/2007 by Herbert Lemons
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by The Informer
According to Hotel manager in the Mercury today, the bar is open to all from Monday...but only after 10pm when dining is finished. That's okay then....[:(!]
Interesting, but risky strategy....
They'll be letting people sleep there next.
The irony that the place was previously host to the Mercury is not l;ost on me.
Reply ID 35050
02/02/2007 by James007
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Well I'm thinking positively and have booked for St.Valentine's Day. Hope they don't close again before that 'cos they've got my cash...
You didn't tell me that! I thought we were going for a steak dinner at Rigomortis Johnnie's on Clacton Sea front?
Reply ID 35051
02/02/2007 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by James007
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Well I'm thinking positively and have booked for St.Valentine's Day. Hope they don't close again before that 'cos they've got my cash...
You didn't tell me that! I thought we were going for a steak dinner at Rigomortis Johnnie's on Clacton Sea front?
You obviously thought wrong, and better bin the tuxedo too - from the picture of the new German manager on the Mercury front page a cravat will be de rigueur [:p]
Reply ID 35064
03/02/2007 by justin
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Well I'm thinking positively and have booked for St.Valentine's Day. Hope they don't close again before that 'cos they've got my cash...
how can they have your cash???
Reply ID 35068
03/02/2007 by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by justin
how can they have your cash???
I had to pay to confirm the booking.
Reply ID 35080
04/02/2007 by justin
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by justin
how can they have your cash???
I had to pay to confirm the booking.
amazing !!!
Reply ID 35085
04/02/2007 by nora batty
I wasn't surprised. As the HHH doesn't have any existing customer base they don't know how solid any dinner reservations are. They probably can't afford to have any no-shows, and there is a risk of sabotage from competitors. I was more surprised that there is no alternative to the heavily sea-food orientated menu.
A benefit to paying in advance for a set menu is that there's less faffing around taking orders or with payment after. Personally, when on a dinner date, I am much more comfortable if there are no prices on the menu - it's a social minefield if you are just getting to know your date. (Are there still restaurants that offer the lady a menu with no prices on, I wonder?).
Another advantage is that I am taking Mr.Batty out for a treat - and he doesn't know (yet!) that I have paid for it with HIS card!!!
Reply ID 35087
04/02/2007 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
I wasn't surprised. As the HHH doesn't have any existing customer base they don't know how solid any dinner reservations are. They probably can't afford to have any no-shows, and there is a risk of sabotage from competitors. I was more surprised that there is no alternative to the heavily sea-food orientated menu.
A benefit to paying in advance for a set menu is that there's less faffing around taking orders or with payment after. Personally, when on a dinner date, I am much more comfortable if there are no prices on the menu - it's a social minefield if you are just getting to know your date. (Are there still restaurants that offer the lady a menu with no prices on, I wonder?).
Another advantage is that I am taking Mr.Batty out for a treat - and he doesn't know (yet!) that I have paid for it with HIS card!!!
Having to pay up front for a meal makes it sound more like a Travelinn breakfast to me.
Reply ID 35088
04/02/2007 by nora batty
Excellent - I love Travel Inn breakfasts!
Reply ID 35090
04/02/2007 by justin
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
I wasn't surprised. As the HHH doesn't have any existing customer base they don't know how solid any dinner reservations are. They probably can't afford to have any no-shows, and there is a risk of sabotage from competitors. I was more surprised that there is no alternative to the heavily sea-food orientated menu.
A benefit to paying in advance for a set menu is that there's less faffing around taking orders or with payment after. Personally, when on a dinner date, I am much more comfortable if there are no prices on the menu - it's a social minefield if you are just getting to know your date. (Are there still restaurants that offer the lady a menu with no prices on, I wonder?).
Another advantage is that I am taking Mr.Batty out for a treat - and he doesn't know (yet!) that I have paid for it with HIS card!!!
How do you know it will be open?
Reply ID 35091
04/02/2007 by nora batty
That has crossed my mind.
Reply ID 35092
04/02/2007 by Rachel
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Well I'm thinking positively and have booked for St.Valentine's Day. Hope they don't close again before that 'cos they've got my cash...
I can't wait to hear what it's like, Nora. I'll think of you on the evening of 14 Feb while I'm munching my way through a family bag of Revels in front of a Top Gear DVD. [V] Please post here to tell us how your evening went.
I'm no fan of the Mercury but I thought their coverage of the reopening of the hotel was absolutely brilliant. [:)] The way they emphasised the new manager's German origins was masterful and gave a sinister Teutonic feel to his quotes, along the lines of, 'Ve vill open other branches in Herts! zen ve vill open a bakery! zen a shop! zen ve vill invade Poland!' They even closed with the line, 'Zis is only ze beginning...' [:D]. Great stuff, almost good enough to make me forgive them for the howlers in the Clash City Robbers article in the entertainment section.
Reply ID 35094
04/02/2007 by Michael
Alas I won't be having a valentines dinner there myself. Could be the bag of revels for me too if I can open my door in the evening past the weight of cards behind it (i wish).
But I am really keen to support this hotel once it opens - did the new owner give any info at all on a projected opening?! What an utter disaster it has all been so far - I'm sure once it does finally open it will be a great addition to the town's social scene. I for one are keeping my fingers crossed for it.
Reply ID 35102
04/02/2007 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by Michael
But I am really keen to support this hotel once it opens - did the new owner give any info at all on a projected opening?!
The hotel's been open since before Christmas and ownership hasn't changed! [:)]
Reply ID 35105
04/02/2007 by Michael
Thanks Steve! I was referring to the bar area. I would patronise one of their hotel rooms but I do think that would be a touch over the top seeing I have a very nice room here in Bengeo!![:)]
Reply ID 35109
05/02/2007 by Frenchie
What im not clear on is that the bar is apparantly only going open after 10pm when the diners 'finished'. Sounds a bit hit and miss. I wouldnt want to be 2/3rds though a nice meal to find a rush to the bar (i can envisage a Q lining up outside). Isnt thats what the diners near the bar complained about last time ?, there isnt the space and all of a sudden there are 30 people standing 1 foot from you watching you eat...
Reply ID 35112
05/02/2007 by The Informer
Well we shall soon find out after 10 weeks whether this is the best idea they could come up with.
I thought they would at least separate the dining/bar areas and agree with Frenchie what's it going to be like at 10pm for drinkers and eaters alike?
Reply ID 35124
05/02/2007 by Andrew
I hope I am proved wrong, but I have a bad feeling about all this. It looks, based on the Mercury's piece to be a case of running beore walking. To build up trade the basics need to be right and there does not seem to be any evidence of this.
Reply ID 35624
12/02/2007 by Bubbaoshea
Well I went for lunch/brunch in the Hotel yesterday afternoon and have to say the food was lovely. I only had a steak sarnie but it was prepared very well, looked superb and the service was very good. My wife's food looked fantastic and tasted good too. From looking at the desert trolly and at what everyone else was eating, I have to say it looks very very good.
There is a nice ambience in there too. Worth a visit even if it's only to sit on the comfy sofas and sup tea!
Reply ID 35650
12/02/2007 by Dell Boy
Is it child friendly? perhaps the mothers from The Snug may want to be seen in there through the window. Seriously I said to my Daughters that we would go for a meal during half term week and guess where they want to go.
I wanted to take them to The Black Horse seems like the friendliest place to take children, also with the added benefit of the internet.
Does the Hotel have free Wifi for hotel customers or just resident's if any at all?
Reply ID 35740
15/02/2007 by nora batty
Had me dinner here last night. The food is fantastic, but the staff and organisation were absolutely rubbish, especially considering they've supposedly been closed for "staff training". The chef threw his toys out of the pram a few times, which was very entertaining for me.
Reply ID 35743
15/02/2007 by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Had me dinner here last night.
I think you mean
'ad me dinner there last night [:D]
Reply ID 35744
15/02/2007 by nora batty
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Had me dinner here last night.
I think you mean 'ad me dinner there last night [:D]
Habsolutely!
Reply ID 35747
15/02/2007 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
The food is fantastic, but the staff and organisation were absolutely rubbish, especially considering they've supposedly been closed for "staff training".
Come on, do tell us more...
Reply ID 35749
15/02/2007 by nora batty
It's like a script from Fawlty Towers. I'll email it to you.
Reply ID 35753
15/02/2007 by Jo S
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
It's like a script from Fawlty Towers. I'll email it to you.
Oh really?! Can you not be persuaded to share with the group? [;)]
Reply ID 35755
15/02/2007 by Deveraux
quote:
Originally posted by Jo S
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
It's like a script from Fawlty Towers. I'll email it to you.
Oh really?! Can you not be persuaded to share with the group? [;)]
Please share this Nora! [^]
Reply ID 35764
16/02/2007 by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Had me dinner here last night. The food is fantastic, but the staff and organisation were absolutely rubbish, especially considering they've supposedly been closed for "staff training". The chef threw his toys out of the pram a few times, which was very entertaining for me.
Oh come on![:)] I gave the warts and all one last time. It sounds the same. Great food, lacking in the overall experience?
So they have closed for 2 months only to offer the same thing???
Reply ID 35767
16/02/2007 by Landy
quote:
Originally posted by Dude
quote:
Originally posted by nora batty
Had me dinner here last night. The food is fantastic, but the staff and organisation were absolutely rubbish, especially considering they've supposedly been closed for "staff training". The chef threw his toys out of the pram a few times, which was very entertaining for me.
Oh come on![:)] I gave the warts and all one last time. It sounds the same. Great food, lacking in the overall experience?
So they have closed for 2 months only to offer the same thing???
Perhaps, despite the training such as it may have been, the staff lack motivation? Perhaps they're not appreciated enough? Perhaps poor management even? Just a thought....
Reply ID 35798
16/02/2007 by nora batty
I think they have suffered enough embarrassment already.
I don't want to rub salt into the wound, but in a nutshell the staff kept getting the orders wrong despite having a set menu for the night. Not just our order either, but at quite a few tables. Also, some acquaintances at the next table had booked and paid in advance only to be told on arrival they had no reservation. I kept expecting Jeremy Beadle to jump out.
Reply ID 35799
16/02/2007 by The Informer
So much for "vorsprung durk technic." [:)]
Reply ID 35935
20/02/2007 by Dude
I hope they get it right, the refurb is beautiful. But I won't be returning any time soon.
Reply ID 52878
10/06/2008 by hertford born and bred
Got in late tonight and caught the end of a piece on London Tonight where they was tasting drink with vinegar in..Reporter said at the end he was in hertford, Am i right in saying they did it the Hertford hotel today..TV crew and all that.
Reply ID 52883
10/06/2008 by Leo Densian
quote:
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
Got in late tonight and caught the end of a piece on London Tonight where they was tasting drink with vinegar in..Reporter said at the end he was in hertford, Am i right in saying they did it the Hertford hotel today..TV crew and all that.
Was this some sort of odd concoction or a comment on the wine list?
Reply ID 52884
11/06/2008 by codek2
wherever it was, hertford house hotel? they were serving a miracle fruit which when eaten makes everything else taste sweet. The vinegar being drank was to prove the point... so no it wasnt about the wines!!
258 replies