Overall Score

Fowey Residences achieves a Five Star Bed and Breakfast rating on the first assessment. A Gold Accolade and Breakfast Award has also been awarded on this assessment, which is a credit to the exceptionally high standards noted. Owners are to be congratulated for their hard work and vision in refurbishing the Marina Hotel into a fine residence.

Rooms Seen

Estuary facing double room with large ensuite occupied on the night of the assessment. Also viewed side aspect suite, estuary facing double room with balcony and entrance facing twin room. It is understood that although there is a selection of rooms available, owners aim to occupy two rooms only at any one time, in order to offer a high level of personal of service.

Cleanliness

Housekeeping standards were noted to be excellent in all areas with clear attention to detail being paid.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms are very well decorated with striking use of co-ordinated fabrics, wallpaper and paintwork. A number of original paintings and selected artwork finish the overall excellent presentation. French Oak flooring throughout is of a superb quality. Furniture is also very well co-ordinated with Starbay marine furniture providing ample storage space. Window shutters to the front facing double have been specially designed and provide effective blackout. Substantial curtains are noted to the other rooms.

Lighting to the rooms is controlled by dimmer switches which operates spotlighting, bedside lighting and central light fitting. Large radiators provide ample heating and opening windows provide ventilation. King size bed steads are provided with Morpheus pocket sprung mattresses, feather bedding and Egyptian cotton linens. Bedrooms are well accessorised with items including thoughtfully stocked hospitality trays, wi-fi and I-pod docking stations. Rooms are very well arranged and the Estuary facing double on the first floor, offers guests the use of the balcony, where breakfast can be served.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are very well decorated with areas of tiling and wall decoration presenting to an excellent standard. Flooring of wood and carpeting is in new condition and of a very high quality. Freestanding baths are noted and also separate shower cubicles, again fitted to a very high standard with excellent fixtures. Heating, lighting and ventilation has been well placed in all areas. A wide range of soft towels are provided to include robes and complimented with a range of excellent Damana toiletries.

Hospitality and guest experience

Booking made on 1st June. The enquiry was very professionally dealt with and a very thorough booking procedure followed. Full payment requested by bank transfer and a very comprehensive confirmation email followed. Due to the restricted parking in Fowey, it is an excellent service to be able to reserve parking for guests.

On check-in, guest was welcomed into the house and given a tour of the property. A cream tea was served and this would be a good time to ask guests to register. A turn down service is provided and rooms are serviced whilst guests are at breakfast, which adds to the high level of guest comfort.

Throughout the stay, guest was made to feel very welcome and encouraged to enjoy the house. On departure, receipt was presented and guest given the option to leave luggage safely during  the day.

Breakfast

Starter sampled of fresh fruit salad, poached peaches, yoghurt, Apple juice, cafetiere coffee and selection of toast. A very well presented buffet table is offered with a range of items. As discussed, there may be an opportunity to offer cereals such as Granola in addition to the muesli and also some other fruit juices.

Main sampled of smoked salmon, scrambled eggs and tomato. Delicate smoked salmon complemented the creamy scrambled eggs perfectly. All items beautifully presented and perfectly seasoned. Mr and Mrs Wagstaff take pride in offering items which are of a high quality and locally sourced. A comprehensive range of cooked items are offered and special requests are welcomed.

The orangery offers a spacious arrangement for dining and also enjoys super views. Table appointment is excellent with a range of high quality cutlery and Portmerrion crockery.

Highlights

Fowey Residences has been refurbished to a very high standard with owners clearly taking great pride in the property. Mr and Mrs Wagstaff are very guest focused and aim to offer a very high level of service in beautiful surroundings. Guests will no doubt appreciate the use of the spacious drawing room complete with a piano and extensive library.

Bishops House occupies a superb position, overlooking the estuary with stunning views on all floors of the house. Breakfast is served in the very impressive orangery, once again commanding far reaching sea views. Guests also have the option of dining on the terrace or on the balconies, which is no doubt appreciated during warmer weather.