The Frenchgate - Richmond

Had a delightful degustation dinner with a private group. Service was seamless and food glorious.

This is comfortable hotel, extremely well run by the owner who is present for most of the time serving the guests. If he isn’t there his long term staff are, and they too are excellent. It is very conveniently located on a beautiful quiet street.It has private parking at the rear or on street parking at the front, although this can be full. Breakfasts are freshly prepared and tasty. There is a lounge and a well stocked bar. We were delighted by our stay and recommend it.

Owner overbearing. Always defensive and quickly belittles customers. Covid meant top chef left and now living on its reputation.

Was ok but not great for the price. The location was great. Easy walk into town. The room smelled very damp. On checking in we were told, without prompting, that it was definitely NOT 2 beds pushed together, which it clearly was. Curious as to why this was made a focal point. It was 2 beds. That wasn’t an issue for us but the lecture was. Also given instructions about soft close toilet seats as if we had never encountered them before. Told that apparently people from Whitley Bay don’t know how to use them. Disappointed that the restaurant wasn’t open. Breakfast was ok.

An awful experience with the extremely pompous and arrogant 'David ' who was, quite simply, the rudest and uncaring person who I have ever had the misfortune of meeting. A horrible experience at a horrible little hotel. Best avoided.