The village of Matfen is tiny, so you can't miss Matfen Hall, as it is clearly signposted from the main road and there is plenty of parking. On entering reception, you could tell that this was an expensive hotel, and our room was not a disappointment. After the 4-hour drive, we enjoyed a cup of tea before donning our complimentary bath robes and strolling down to the leisure suite. We started with a swim in the spacious pool, followed by a dip in the Jacuzzi. Then, after another swim, we took advantage of the sauna and rain-forest shower (don't press winter first—it is very cold and caused much giggling). There is also a salt grotto, and it is all beautifully tiled and well set out. After another swim, we returned to our room to drink tea and eat sandwiches before the wedding reception. We danced the night away drinking expensive beers from the bar and popping to our room for drams of whisky in between.Breakfast next morning was huge; there was a buffet for cereal and juice, and then you ordered your hot dishes from the waiter. Tea and coffee were plentiful, which is perhaps as well, and there was ample toast, too.
It's wonderful hotel that is worth every penny if you want a relaxing night away. If you are a golfer, you're in heaven, as there is a top-quality golf course here as well!