Hotel du Vin & Bistro

Easy to find from the motorway (M3) and carparking really straightforward. The hotel is in the city centre.
Reception staff were welcoming but we could have benefited from finding out about the various public rooms trather than finding out for ourselves.

The bedroom, their best, was large with a beautiful ceilng and dark wooden floor boards. Yes, the decor was fine! A huge wardrobe too! There were two sash windows with a view over a lawn ---worth it because the other side of the hotel overlooks a busy road! Beware of the lack of lighting! There was not sufficient light from the lamps to even study the remotes for the huge TV, DVD or music system.
A more useful room-guide would have helped us.

The bed was comfortable, the roll top bath great and the monsoon shower was fantastic.

Food? Well, we stayed for 3 nights and had three evening meals there. The choice was fine (the wine list excellent, with the best bargains in the mid-price range £50 -£100)) but the service was varied. If you opt for the burger then do ask for it to be cooked to your choice ---unless you enjoy cinders!

There is an intimate bar with knowledgable staff; there is, just outside the garden door a... well, it made me think of a yurt! Anyway, it is rather like a posh wooden tent with comfortable chairs. We both enjoyed sitting out here during quieter moments.

Would we stay there again? Yes.

Unique Quality: Location.
Ambience.
The food ---when they got it right!
The room ---except for the lighting!

Directions: If you are coming off the M3 then do enter Winchester along St.Cross Road.