I stayed at Whately Hall with my wife and two year old because of its proximity to the annual tractor parade, something we look forward to every year. I booked a two bedroom room for close to £200, expecting a comfortable and family friendly stay.
Two days before arrival, we were warned that Christmas parties would be taking place. We immediately asked to be placed as far away from the noise as possible, given we were travelling with a young child. Despite this, our room was clearly positioned where noise would be an issue.
What followed was one of the worst hotel nights we have had. Loud music, shouting, and groups of people standing in the courtyard talking and screaming continued well past midnight, finally stopping around 1am. The courtyard acts like an echo chamber, amplifying the noise straight into the rooms. Our son was awake for most of the night, distressed and overtired, which anyone with a toddler will appreciate is not something you can simply ignore.
We complained during the night, repeatedly, yet nothing was done. There was no attempt to control guests, no staff presence to manage the situation, and no restrictions on people congregating outside. While I understand that Christmas parties happen, there should be basic controls in place, especially in a ho