Guesthouse The Black Swan - The Inn Collection Group (Helmsley, United Kingdom)

This locale offers a distinctive experience for luxury without the slightest air of grandiosity. Roaring log fires will greet you upon any winter day's arrival, rooms are spacious and cosy, and the adjacent town is a friendly oasis of markets and pubs.  The gardens are superb as is the inviting Tea Room, and a leisurely stroll through the afternoon art gallery is an unexpected treat. 

This hotel's dining experience should not be skipped.   Once the art gallery transforms into the evening's Gallery Restaurant, you'll be guaranteed a meal to remember. Afternoon tea packs an equal punch for tea (and sometimes champagne) lovers.  Decor in all common areas is stunning.  Don't forget to have a drink when you return to the hotel after the day's adventures - the bar is absolutely charming.   Significantly above average on quality, presentation and service in all venues.

Helpful and friendly, they will welcome you warmly and go out of their way to add plenty of special touches to your stay.  Excellent from arrival to departure.

Some rooms may have been missed on the upgrade list thus far, so ask for a recently renovated unit if there is one available.  Otherwise, you may experience a lull in the magic of this hotel.  Tired, outdated decor, chipped paint on fixtures, small and overly worn mattresses,  poor ventilation, dirty basins and inefficient plumbing.

If you aren't a dog lover, you may resent the canines in residence during your stay, as they can be quite vocal. Also, some portion sizes on meals may seem small compared to expectations. In addition, prices on various packages may seem expensive - get clarity on everything included upon booking.

You may find a spot easily; you may not.