Gold Award  - Assessors Report                                                         (reconfirmed  on inspection visit December 2023)

Exterior
 

The property presents very well externally with signage clear from the road. Large well kept gardens surround the property and there is very good allocated private parking.

Ideal location in a peaceful village, perfect for exploring the surrounding area.

Cleanliness

High standards of cleanliness creating a positive impression for arriving guests and a credit to all involved.

High and low level ledges and fittings dust and cobweb free throughout with comparable attention to detail also evident to furniture, soft furnishings and lighting/heating fittings.

Mixed flooring thoroughly vacuumed to skirtings and into corners, care also taken around bases of bathroom fittings and kitchen units.

Sanitary ware clean and glazed surfaces and chrome fittings polished; grouting and silicon sealant also presenting to a high standard.

Kitchen units clean and attention evident to drawer and cupboard interiors. White goods, tableware and cookware also demonstrating attention to detail.

Management & Efficiency

Mr Warrington manages all bookings personally communicating with guests at each stage of the procedure and assisting with transportation requirements if required.

A personal welcome is offered on arrival with a thorough tour of the property.

An excellent selection of breakfast items including hot beverage making items, bacon, eggs, bread, fresh fruit, homemade marmalade and other groceries are left for arriving guests.

Guest information is comprehensive and well presented and includes lots of tourist and local information. Many personal touches noted throughout.

A computer is also provided for guest use as well as music system and WiFi.

Public Areas

The lounge continues to present very well with stunning countryside views, ideal for watching the wildlife.

Painted decor is very well maintained, with the use of artwork to help enhance the appearance.

Carpet continues to wear very wear very well. Plants and furnishings are well placed and coordinated.

The dining set and sofa and chair are very comfortable and well looked after.

Excellent spot lighting and natural lighting noted with help from the sash windows. Controllable underfloor heating is effective.

Bedrooms

The well designed bedroom continues to present in very good order.

Painted decor remains and carpeted flooring are both in very good condition.

Built in wardrobes and drawers allow for ample hanging and storage space.

Beds are very well maintained with firm mattresses and plump pillows that are very well protected.

Very well laundered linen dresses the beds complete with coordinated cushions and throw.

Excellently positioned spot lighting and effective underfloor heating.
 

Bathrooms

Guests benefit from a very good sized bathroom offering a separate shower and bath, there is also an additional cloakroom.

Fully tiled decor continues to be in excellent order along with the exceptionally well maintained tiled flooring.

Modern sanitary ware presents extremely well with sealant and grouting neat and tidy.

A selection of toiletries and towels are also thoughtfully provided. Towel rail is effective and lighting levels very well considered.

Kitchen

The extremely well equipped kitchen has been well designed to provide sufficient floor and surface space.

Painted decor and tiled surround continue to be in very good order with the tiled flooring remaining in excellent condition.

Very good storage units and drawers provide guests with ample storage space, excellent Le Creuset pans and appropriate cookware and utensils.

Underfloor heating, very good lighting and an extractor fan is noted. Portmeirion crockery, tableware and glassware is of excellent quality and quantity.

Appliances and equipment including a bean to cup De'Longhi coffee machine are very well maintained.

Website Feedback

When carrying out a general Google search on a laptop for self catering accommodation in Rutland, The Lodge at Ketton Park, Stamford did not appear in the first 3 pages.

However, once the property was Googled, it appeared prominently on the first page.

The property is marketed on TripAdvisor and more recently Airbnb. Website reviewed www.kettonpark.com

The website is not mobile compatible. This is encouraged as 65% of potential guests search for accommodation using a hand held device.

The website does have a dated look, however the website holds a lot of information.

Clear accommodation descriptions noted, and accurate photos reflect the style of accommodation.

Lots of local information and a choice of languages are also available and are sure to be appreciated by potential guests.

As previously discussed, the reference and logos to Walkers and Cyclists Welcome Scheme now needs to be removed.

The 'VisitEngland' logos are well positioned as are the contact details.

VisitEngland strongly recommend updating the Access Statement to the new Accessibility Guides format. There is no strict timetable for moving over, allowing you to make the switch within a convenient time frame. For more information and template see: https://www.visitbritain.org/writing-accessibility-guide

Very good reviews on TripAdvisor with owner replies, however last one posted 2016. Excellent and very positive comments also noted on the website itself. Social media is not currently utilised.

Potential for Improvement

Very little to suggest after this year's assessment visit. Keep up the good work maintaining and investing as and when necessary.

Highlights

High standards of housekeeping.

Peaceful location ideal for exploring the local area.

Beautiful well kept gardens.

Caring owners who ensure high standards are met and guests feel comfortable.

Off road parking.