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To Take The Waters or Not... The House That Ramsay Built Location Location Location Bedrooms Ports of Call Suite Guest Knick-Knacks Ramsay's Restaurant Ramsay's Real Ale Bar

~ EVERY 2008-2010 GUEST COMMENT FORM NOW LOADED
- READ WHAT PEOPLE REALLY THOUGHT ~

To Take The Waters or Not...
Well there's none to take as such, unless you fancy a skinny dip in the nearby Spa Water fed pool - and as there's a lot of local school usage...

You may of course choose to take a pilgrimage to Buxton to drink from the Spa Well in town...one of the oldest and deepest mineral water sources in Europe...fed by the very raindrops which ensued from the heavens over 5,000 yrs ago - a time when a Post-it note meant a clay tablet, changing rooms involved some new cave paintings and reinventing the wheel wasn’t an option! But let's face it, you can even buy the stuff nigh on anywhere for instant hydration - Christ, they even have 'kiddy lunch-box' sized bottles so that Jocasta and Jacob remain serenely detoxified during their playtime Pilates session!

And should you stay with us?

A FEW REASONS NOT TO STAY AT THE BUCKINGHAM

1. We haven't been featured on a Hotel Inspector
2. We’re not in Buckingham
3. The Milk Tray Man doesn’t enter via yr bedroom window and leave a white Malteeser on the hypoallergenic pillow (he'd need a hard hat & safety harness these days)
4. You won't get a parking ticket
5. Our lift isn't fluent in 12 languages (but you won't be bored once inside...)
6. Gary Lineker stayed her (when the Walker's ad's were funny)
7. You won't get a pkt of custard creams in your comp tray
8. You're uneccessarily High Maintenance
9. We don't charge you £95/hr to use our free Wireless facility
10. Nil likelihood of Volcanic Dust
11. You'll never have to make your bed and lie in it
12. We may be considered Bigotted by certain people...
13. We're bloody high up
14. But not stuck up

The Last Recorded incident of 'Happy Guests'

No hard sell so far then - but no doubt some of you see your glass as half full rather than empty and eschew the negative approach. Just for you then, and in the interests of balance of course, here’s an ever so soft sell (without a hint of tainted love).

24 REASONS TO STAY AT THE BUCKINGHAM

1. Carol Thatcher slept here
2. There’s no threat of Coastal Erosion
3. Lord Lucan has stayed with us
4. We've got over 80 current monthly magazines for free loan - all top titles
5. You won't get put through to a call centre in Chenai whe you call us
6. We're Child Friendly (in a nice way!?!)
7. You won’t feel like an uninvited guest at the Ambassador’s Ball
8. We make public every single guest comment, regardless of what it says
9. You don’t have to be Mr Blunkett to bring yr dog or need a Custody Order for children to stay
10. We haven't been mentioned in any MPs Expense claims
11. We’ll only smile if we mean it
12. Like Monopoly, we’ve got FREE PARKING
13. It’s FOC to use our Wireless facility...and borrow 'local area' books from our collection
14. We aren't bothered about your sexual persuasion (though non domestic pets aren't allowed in the hotel)
15. We use Sous Vide cooking methods for a lot of our dinner menu
16. Plenty of Booze! Our sexy wines are Laithwaites supplied and feature 15 by the glass too - the quality is as good as you'll get anywhere for the price! Our range of draught lagers (6) is THE BEST you'll encounter anywhere...plus up to 8 Cask Ales too...we even serve J/Walker Black, Martin Millers Gin and Stolly/SKY & Courvoissier VSOP as our Hs Pours!!!
17. We Keep It Real...and what we don't, we make up
18. We do a half decent breakfast (read the comments). There's 4+ juices, our full range of yummy Longley Farm yogs, over 2 doz cereals incl all the Dorset ones, prunes/grapefruit and a choice of over 70 things to spread on yr freshly toasted granary. We serve the meanest coffee around (Pollard's Coffee thru a WMF machine) with the beans ground to order and have 6 Jing Herbal infusions too. Then there's the cooked stuff ...!
19. Because Johnny Vegas slept here
20. We're Pet Friendly (yo Ace Ventura)
21. Paddy Burt hasn't black listed us (yet)!
22. Our rates are as sharp as custard n sweet as mustard
23. Everywhere else is fully booked
    
24. Parties of 20 or more golly's stay free...period!

 

And if you do stay with us?

...as well as finding us as homely and welcoming as any hotel you've ever stayed in (we reckon our staff are The Friendliest Free Spirits in Peak District) - you'll discover we're a bit different too..nice different we think - but don't take our word for it, read all the 2008 Guests Comments which seem to concur! Food verdicts are generally excellent with numerous mentions specifically for our Breakfasts.

On top of that our Bar is CAMRA listed and we serve 3 top local ales + guest beers. Lager wise there are only 6 draught choices! If wine's your thing, then we've 15 or so by the glass And Salty Dog crisps too!!

Is there a downside to staying with us? Well all the negative comments concern minor niggles with the building and also the decor. It's an old building (over 130 yrs old) and so the odd creaky floorboard and whistling tap do occur - we (well Paul our handyman) do keep on top of these as they crop up. As for the decor, we're never going to appear in Style Magazine and any moans people have concern the need for modernisation - rightly so given the dated look. To carry out a seriously full-scale revamp would involve structural alterations as well to acheive a total transformation and it is something we are considering.

Regardless of the Wallpaper and Flock Mallards (only joking, we took them down earlier this year!), the building does have an impressive external footprint - at worst it will never intimidate you, far more likely though that'll you'll feel its warmth (literally at times) and be comfortable within it, as so many have done.

 

 

The Hotel Inspector - we were graded 3 Star by the three Grading bodies (AA/RAC/Eng Tourism Council) until mid 2006 at which time we parted company over the handling of 2 guest complaints Since then the World has changed and 'scoring high %ages on starchy Hotel Inspector check lists' is of little real value anymore as most folk can find online reviews which are much more relevant and up to date. Our facilities and general stds would still meet 3 Star classification we reckon.

Trip Advisor - #3/17 for Buxton Hotels - Comments pretty much mirror those that we receive on our own Guest Comment forms, though there are a lot fewer if your looking for proper Stastical Sampling! Oh and to person who grumbled 'cos of The Reading FC Flag, get a life...unless you're 'Bess of Hardwick'...in which case you've clearly had an interesting one and we'll gladly take it down

Booking.Com (8.0/10) - our current rating with reviews submitted by quests (book direct if you prefer)

Active Hotels (4.3/5) - our current rating with reviews submitted by quests (book direct)

Active Hotels Brochure (8/10) - our current rating with reviews submitted by quests

Daily Telegraph (Paddy Burt) - her opinion

Celebrity Guests - we are the officially appointed hotel of the Northern Royals (Reading FC, not The Windsors), an exiles supporters club branch and receive visits from supporter's club coaches en route back to the deep South. The significance of such a discerning endorsement cannot be overstated; in light of the impressive on-field achievements that these supporters have become accustomed to in recent seasons, it is clear that they only dine at the top table so to speak

OUR VERDICT: Great staff & gud food in the most welcoming of Buxton Hotels, albeit with a yesteryear enviornment - Child and Family Friendly, Gay Friendly & Pet Friendly (gay-pet friendly too?!?) accommodation in Buxton. Perfect for your Buxton or Peak District short break!

 

The House That Ramsay Built

The healing properties of Buxton's spa water first drew visitors to the town in Roman times. Over the centuries people have continued to visit though happily today their reasons are more for pleasure than medicinal. Originally built as two gentleman's residences, No 1 Burlington Road was known as 'Rockhaven' (1875) and No 2 as 'Buckingham' (1876).

Around the turn of the century, Rockhaven was acquired by Mr & Mrs George Ramsay-Mrs Ramsay running it as a lodging house. Her husband, George S Ramsay was a well known artist in oils, specialising in local scenes. Records show that in 1906 Mr and Mrs Ramsay moved to Aylestone in Leicestershire where he continued to paint. Shortly after this the two houses were combined to make the hotel as it stands today.

The new millenium saw The Buckingham entering it's third century of offering hospitality to visitors. As well as being an important town landmark the hotel plays host to many local clubs and associations as well as enjoying much local patronage via Ramsay's Restaurant and Real Ale Bar.

Location Location Location

The imposing sandstone building enjoys a peaceful, leafy location overlooking The Serpentine (Park) on one side (right) and the beautifully restored Pavilion Gardens to the front (below). Within the Gardens are the Conservatory, Octagon Hall, Spa Water pool and Bandstand plus a lake, miniature railway...and um, ducks...who swan (!) around as tho' they own the place.

Greenery abounds in all directions and the blend of trees, lawns and flora along with the quietness of the immediate area (broadly residential) combine sublimely to produce a relaxing atmosphere, which can only be fully appreciated first hand. The Opera House, Georgian Crescent, Pump Room and St Ann's Well are all 5 min or so level walk and form a gateway into the unique town centre that is Buxton.

We do indeed benefit from close proximity to the centre whilst remaining undisturbed from the associated fallout (late night revellers, etc). However we are on the edge of the Peak District which is renowned for it's lime related industries (cement not the gin accessory). The odd laden truck does pass the hotel in the early hours (6-ish) and may wake those whose usual sole disturbance is the postman, sorry...Postperson, delivering post 9am.

Bedrooms

Our 35 en suite bedrooms all enjoy the following:

• 20" TVs with Feeview Receivers (ltd to 16 channels in this Buxton) & satellite/digital channels which we provide individually
  (inc Sky News, Sky One, Sky 3, ITV3, ITV4, Film 4, BBC3, BBC4, Sky Sports 1-4)
• Direct Dial telephones (international operator collect call facility via reception)
• Modem connection point (shared with telephone)
• Hairdryer & trouser press (a separate ironing room is available)
• Complimentary hot beverage tray (decaffeinated & herbal teas are available)
• Extras size bath towels & non-allergy pillows are standard
• Sony Self-setting radio/alarm clocks

       

Rooms are designated standard or superior, the latter being larger or enjoying what are generally considered better aspects or featuring refurbished bathrooms. All rooms are Non-Smoking and most are served by a lift.

34 rooms are either double or twin bedded with most twins being family rooms (double + single bed). An extra bed can be added to allow these rooms to comfortably sleep 2A/2C (or be used as triple rooms) and cots are available.

With only one single room the vast majority of those requiring single rooms benefit from sole occupancy of a double/family room.

Ports of Call Suite

Not quite Footballer's Wives but still a bit of a flash Harry room with some nice chavvy touches. Though not a suite in the strictest sense, the room is large enough to accommodate comfortable chairs in a separate seating area. The imposing wooden king size bed is handmade and the room decorated in bright colours. The bathroom features a pair of matching sinks and has a claw-foot bath.

       

Guest Knick Knacks

• A lounge (with TV)
• Free to Use WiFi
• Over 80 monthly magazines for guest loan (current month/top titles)
• An ice machine (first floor)
• A collection of books, maps and walking guides covering Buxton and the area which guests may borrow or buy
• Free parking in the hotel's grounds
• Same day laundry service (though dry cleaning only may be restricted at weekends)
• Ironing room

Ramsay's Restaurant

We currently have a single menu for both the bar & restaurant areas. Main-Courses range from £5 - £18 with an extensive fish menu too. We cook a lot of stuff Sous Vide which produces food with an incredible taste comapred to conventional cooking.

We no longer offer a dinner, bed & breakfast tariff, simply because it's now cheaper than before to stay on a B&B basis and dine off the new menu than pay the previous combined dbb rates. For groups and special occasions we can put together bespoke table d'hôte menus - from £20 appx. Serving time is 6.30/7.00 - 8.00/9.00pm depending on the day - though earlier dining is available during the various festivals - We serve 7 nights a week.

We also offer meal stops for groups and tours that visit Buxton - menus are bespoke and can be matched to all budgets and schedules, so if you're visiting the Peak District and require a meal stop, please get in touch.

      

Ramsay's Real Ale Bar

Named after local artist George Ramsay who lived in The Buckingham, Ramsay's Bar enjoys much local patronage-the blend of guests and residents producing a natural, pleasant atmosphere as well as allowing you to experience the local community first hand...ho hum.

Draught - As well as 5 World Class Draught Lagers (see below), served in Iced Glasses, the bar is CAMRA listed and certainly has the finest independent selection of draught real ales in town, if not the surrounding area with a choice of up to 8 cask ales, including 3 local treasures (see below).

Spirits - A comprehensive range of spirits includes almost certainly THE BEST range of Gins (12+) & Vodkas (30+) you'll find on any bar in this Country!!!

Wines - nowhere else will you find the quality offered at such affordable prices + 15 or so wines by the 250ml glass with prices starting at £3.75. With 4 Pinot's, 7 Shiraz's, 7 Sauvignion's, 10 Chardonnay's to start with, you'll be in HeaVin!

Local redsidents attending a wake in the bar (May 2007)

DRAUGHT BEERS

LAGERS - THE BEST RANGE IN THE COUNTRY - GTD FEMALE FRIENDLY TOO LAYDEEZ!!

• Peroni
  So the Italians don’t do lager eh? Whether you’ve experienced bottled Peroni or not – prepare to be blown away by the draught version. Peroni Nastro Azzurro (translated from Italian means 'Blue Ribbon'), is a straw coloured premium lager (5.1%) and has been imported since 1965. The taste is crisp, refreshing and dry, with a delicate aroma,
  which comes from the use of an exclusive variety of hop. Itz a triumph of taste over pure strength compared to many of the stronger lagers which just taste 'strong' – and deliver way too much alcohol hitting the back of the throat. There
  is no bitter twang at the end – it holds that sublime taste to the very end, like champagne, yum!
  
  ~ He may pinch your cheeks, but not yer bum (or so he tells us!) Ciao !!! ~

• Oranjeboom
  ~ A Dutch Master you can afford (£2.80/pt)~

• Budvar Budweiser
  To quote Budvar “Our 5% Czech Premium Lager is beer for light beer lovers. The most gentle heads of the high quality Žatec hop, virgin clear water from 300m deep Artesian wells and granules of selected species of Moravian barley make it the beverage of real experts.
  
  The 700-year long tradition in production of České Budějovice beer and the unique, 90-day period of maturity increase its unique character. You can taste Budweiser Budvar Czech Premium Lager with all your senses. First of all you will delight your eyes with its beautiful colour and rich dense foam, then you will feel the fine aroma of the hops, in your palm you will stroke the dewy glass and, in the end, you will taste the fine to medium strong bitterness. You will remember well, our perfect lager”.
  
  Mmmm...all we’re gonna say is that in life you eat n drink certain things simply ‘cos they’re placed in front of ya – this is 1 of those occasions – find a bad written word about Draught Budvar and we’ll...scream and scream and... This has a really really unique full taste, it has some "sweet" bitterness, a really explicit hop flavour and...NO aftertaste. BTW, this Budweiser is totally unrelated to the Anericano Bud that those frogs drink...after years of squabbling about who’s allowed to use the name, the EU ruled that the brand “Budweiser” belongs to Budvar, not to the house of bland, Anheuser-Busch! Miaoowww!
  
  ~ Definitely a bit of an East European Charmer who’s got the breeding to match (and a forged work permit too!) ~

• Asahi
  Asahi (pronounced “Ah-sah-hee”) means “Rising Sun” and is the best selling lager in Asia and one of he Top 7 selling lagers in the world (oh, itz our personal fav too!). It’s known as Asahi Super Dry – not ‘cos itz like eating chalk, but rather a reference to the clinical, crisp pure taste that you’ll experience. – coupled with a complex aroma that results in an elegant and sophisticated flavour.
  
  It gets sexier tho’ - the beer is brewed for the whole of Europe in Prague (by Hiroshi Kimura), their entire output is bottled...as is ALL the Asahi produced in the world...’cept, that is...what’s brewed in the UK?!?
  Y’see, they entrusted the Brits not only to brew it on their behalf to bottle, but also to produce a sexy draught version. The lucky mob were Kent based Shepherd Neame who worked closely with Hiroshi Kimura to create a "super-cool" lager dispensed at 3°C rather than the 7/8°C used previously. The result is an even smoother, cleaner taste that enhances the subtle flavours of the beer and makes it more drinkable (5%).
  
  Shepherd Neame production and distribution director Ian Dixon said: "With their bottled beer, Asahi are peerless but we felt we were able to offer assistance when it came to keg dispense and presentation." And Boy DID they get it right! ! This is a rare delight and rarely available on draught – miss it at yr peril!
  
  ~ A Fella who knows how to produce maximum pleasure with so little apparent effort! ~

• Kingfisher
  
• REAL ALE (Cask) - 3 Permanent Beers:
  
• Longdale - (Howard Town Brewery Ltd, Glossop, Derbys) £2.20/pt
• Pint (Marble Brewery, Manchester)
• Kipling (Thornbridge Brewery)

• Up to 5 other Guest Pumps featuring selected ales from here, there n everywhere (literally)! - current brewers who we like are Salopian, Blackwater, Leeds Brewery, Acorn...plus Marble & Thornbridge guests
  
  

OTHER STUFF on tap

• Worthington Creamflow
• Guinness Stout
• Guinness Extra Cold
• Thatchers Gold Cider
• Thatchers Pear Cider)

 

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