White Hart

This historic inn, steeped in centuries of character, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and recently refurbished accommodations, making it a memorable choice for guests. Its central location is a significant draw, placing visitors within easy reach of city attractions. Guests consistently commend the friendly staff and the generally comfortable rooms, which contribute to a pleasant stay. The hotel's on-site dining options also receive positive remarks for their quality. This establishment is particularly well-suited for sightseers and business travelers due to its accessibility, as well as couples and solo travelers seeking a charming base for exploration. For those with mobility concerns, it is advisable to inquire about the lift status, as it has been undergoing replacement. Additionally, guests sensitive to noise might consider requesting a room away from the main road or bar area.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides convenient on-site parking, though guests should be aware that a fee is typically charged for its use. A recurring theme in reviews is the lift, which has frequently been out of order due to replacement or repairs, posing a challenge for guests with rooms on higher floors. The hotel features a charming bar and restaurant area, often praised for its historic ambiance. Many guests enjoy the tranquil secret garden or beer garden, which offers a pleasant outdoor space for relaxation. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests have reported inconsistent connectivity in their rooms. The hotel also offers meeting spaces that are well-regarded for conferences and events. However, some guests noted a lack of secure luggage storage options before check-in.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, often highlighting the positive impact of recent refurbishments, including new carpets and modern touches like USB plug sockets. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for many. However, a significant number of guests report issues with room temperature, noting the absence of air conditioning and the ineffectiveness of provided fans in warmer weather. Noise can also be a concern, with reports of road noise, sounds from nearby music venues, or general street noise impacting sleep, particularly in rooms overlooking busy areas. Some reviews mention specific maintenance issues such as worn carpets, stained curtains, or issues with windows that do not open or close properly. Bathrooms are generally clean, with ample hot water and good power showers, though some guests wished for brighter lighting or additional amenities like shower caps.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on breakfast is mixed; many guests praise the tasty produce and well-cooked options, describing it as a great start to the day. However, some express disappointment with the service, noting long wait times, a lack of available items like cups or juice, and the additional charges for tea and coffee which are not included in the standard breakfast price. The evening meal generally receives positive reviews for its delicious and well-prepared food, with generous portions and good value. The restaurant atmosphere is often appreciated. The bar is noted for its character and pleasant ambiance, though some guests have found the drink prices to be high, particularly for mixed drinks, and have commented on a limited selection of beer options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, offering easy walking distance to key city attractions such as the Cathedral, shops, restaurants, and the Quay. It is also conveniently situated for events at venues like the Corn Exchange and the Exeter Phoenix. Guests arriving by train find its proximity to the station beneficial. The availability of on-site parking is a significant convenience for those traveling by car, though the associated fee, which has varied, is a point of discussion among guests. Despite its central position, many rooms are reported to be quiet, offering a peaceful retreat from the city bustle, while others note occasional street noise from the surrounding area.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel are widely praised for being friendly, helpful, and welcoming, with many guests highlighting their attentiveness and willingness to assist. The check-in process is often described as seamless and efficient. However, a recurring concern is the apparent shortage of staff, leading to long wait times at the bar, restaurant, and reception. Guests frequently report that the reception area is often un-manned, requiring them to seek out staff in other areas of the hotel. While the individual service provided is generally positive, the overall experience can be impacted by these staffing limitations, affecting the speed of service for dining and other requests.

Additional Information
The hotel is housed within a truly historic building, with parts dating back centuries, offering a unique and charming atmosphere that many guests appreciate. Recent refurbishments have updated many of the rooms, blending modern comfort with the building's traditional character. However, some guests noted that these updates have not extended to all areas, with certain parts of the hotel still appearing dated. A common point of feedback regarding room amenities is the absence of a mini fridge, which some guests found inconvenient for storing drinks or milk. While tea and coffee facilities are provided in rooms, some guests reported that these were not consistently replenished during their stay, particularly for longer visits.