Best Western Plus Oaklands Hotel

I was looking forward to visiting my home city on a work trip, the accommodation was booked through an agency, sadly I was booked into a tiny room in the top of the hotel with only a skylight. No fault of the hotel but I was not going to spend any time in that room. The staff were awesome, Annie was brilliant. The breakfast which I had every day was one of the best I've had. A popular spot for weddings, other than the small room, it was a lovely place, the apartment blocks looked amazing.

Always a great atmosphere. Hotel is clean, food is always great , staff and management are friendly and efficient and very attentive. It's a great family friendly hotel, my kids are always comfortable and well looked after. Looks to be an amazing wedding venue location.

Good hotel quirky room but clean great staff quality bar and the food was decent have to say that breakfast was excellent needed a late check out and the staff could not be more helpful plenty of space to park well lit I would be happy staying here again

Stayed at The Oaklands Hotel in Norwich, for a long weekend with family. Thought it was a fantastic place to stay, very clean, super friendly staff and service was of a very high standard. Look forward to staying again when we come to Norfolk.

I hired one of there function rooms last Saturday 30th March. It was a drag entertainment evening raising money for a cancer hospice called pbl. The night was in memory of my late mother that passed away from cancer. The night was a total nightmare. The room floor was dirty and grubby. Glasses at the bar wasn't clean. There was 60 people that paid good money to help us raise money. A drag show is loud funny and good old entertainment. We had only been starting the night, with in the first 3 minutes a manager stormed into the room and told us turn your music down or we would be kicked out. The music was not even at 1/4 of what it could be. There was a wedding reception going on the other side of the hotel and we could hear it clear from ours. They where not told to turn there's down !!! I approached the manager and got the worst homophobia I have ever experienced. He threatened to kick us out even though it was a charity event. Guests from the wedding party called us all horrible names and us drag queens didn't feel safe or comfortable performing at this event. We got told to wind our event down and finish. Tbh I couldn't wait to get out of that rubbish place. I will never set foot in that place again and is drag queens will team together and never perform again there. Avoid avoid avoid

Stayed here after a wedding. Rooms very tired looking, bulbs missing from bedroom and bathroom lights. Quilt very lumpy and heavy and pillows not good. Needs major TLC. TV wouldn't stay on. O the plus side, Staff very friendly and food good. Would definitely recommend the breakfast.

Attended a wedding and the staff were very friendly and helpful food was amazing the whole experience was brilliant. Had guests that stayed over and the rooms were clean and comfortable. Tori was on reception and was very helpful and made us all feel very welcom.

I stayed here for work and had an amazing stay! I dined in the restaurant for breakfast and dinner and the food was delicious. The room was clean and staff couldn't be more helpful! I would recommend for business trips and leisure! Will definitely stay again.

DO NOT GET MARRIED HERE !! The whole day was an absolute joke !! And the staff are so so rude and unwelcoming and treated us like we was nothing !! The lady on the desk was vile !! Her name was tori she called all kids dogs ‘if they are raised by dogs they will behave like dogs'. !!!!! And then also went on to make a homophobic comment to MY MUM !! At a lesbian wedding !! If you have an allergy definitely don't go there !! They were told about my mums allergy and had it written down and everything but still gave her the food she couldn't have !! She was extremely ill for her own daughter's wedding and this is absolutely appalling !!! The whole day was an absolute nightmare and it's ruined our wedding day that we can't get back !! The food took hours to come out and the some table where done before some had even eaten there was just 2 girls running round like headless chicken looking like they haven't even been told what's going on ! We tried to get in contact with the owner and he has just laughed at the fact his staff are disgustingly rude and vile and the allergy he doesn't care about ? You could have KILLED someone but none of them care!! Please don't get married here or go for food, the food was absolutely disgusting!!!!

We attended the Mother's day afternoon tea yesterday. We all had a fantastic time, the food was absolutely amazing and a really good variety, the atmosphere was brilliant, staff were very helpful, well worth the money. Very well organised, we will definitely return to future events and hopefully for the same next year, Thank you to you all

I attended my friends wedding & The reception which long brown hair, Fringe was so rude. Calling the children who attended ‘dogs'. She made the whole atmosphere for everyone very unpleasant & i would definitely not want to visit again with her in attendance.

We frequent several of the other establishments in the chain and chose to dine here for Mothers Day, they were able to cater for our large numbers and the food was delicious. The staff made a fuss of my mother which was lovely as well. We will be back.

We've dined before at Oaklands and the food is always good. And a bit more different than other local restaurants. Prices are in line with the city and the place looks nice, especially the terrace, many establishments would die to have such a gem. Unfortunately the management of the restaurant is very poor. We went there for Valentine's day but were unable to book online: you could only book for the bar or for Mother's day dining room/bar. No mention of a special menu or anything else. So we booked over the phone - I was quite shocked that they had availability given that most other places I've tried were fully booked. When we arrived it looked like the place was in mourning. 2-3 guests, quiet, no receptionist, no greeting from the bar/restaurant staff. We were taken to our table, which was nicely set-up, like the rest of the restaurant. There were Valentine's day menus on the table, with a 3 course priced at £69pp. As explained above, we had no idea of this menu. However the price was extremely high for such a place: the best restaurants in Norwich, Michellin rated would have menus at that price point. So we've told the waiter that we didn't know about this menu and would like the normal menu. Finally a compromise was struck so we were able to order from either menu and would pay/item not as a package. It took close to an hour for the food to arrive - people that arrived after us got and finished their mains before we got ours. So the waiter comped our drinks, very nice gesture. Unfortunately same happened with our desserts, took towards half an hour to arrive - not that the restaurant was full, there were around 7-8 tables. It is sad to see a place with so much potential ruined by poor management. And although they had more staff/guest ratio than most other Norwich restaurants, it was untrained staff, nobody asked us how the food is after being served, no one cleared the empty plates when we finished a course. The bar side was pretty much empty as well, so not many hotel guests using the restaurant. I don't know how the room side is doing but it would take a very biased general manager to do great on the room side and not to notice the poor F&B side. I mean it's not rocket science to make such a place buzz and do great, with minimal investment I could turn that place arround in a year - and I put my money where my mouth is!

Stayed over Sunday night in a classic double bedroom. Spacious and clean. Lovely welcome on reception and all staff we came into contact with were friendly and welcoming. Had a Sunday roast - beautifully presented, the beef was cooked medium just how I like it. My husband had the lamb. Really good meal

Arrived past 6pm. Room was ice cold. Had to ask reception to check underfloor heating was working. Still cold at 10pm. Slipped and fell on Moss covered path. Reported but just brushed off by staff. Room (suite in annex) was below average. Bed OK-just. Decking on balcony green and super slippy. Went to bed cold. Woke early with Room now hot. Went to make a drink, no tea bags. Spoke to reception, the reply was "ok" as she walked away. Considering the price I wasn't expecting this standard of accommodation or lack of interest from the staff. Way way overpriced and under delivered. Did not try the food. Could not wait to get a shower in my very cold bathroom and leave the room. Considering similar priced hotels in Norwich this one falls way below. At least its reminded me to check out trip advisor before I book.

A delightful stay in Norwich, Always struggled to find a hotel near to the train station for good value and decent quality. However after staying at the Oaklands, i need to look no longer. Simply amazing staff, great evening dinner, Lovely bar area with knowledgable barman (Seb) Thank you for a wonderful stay! Ms Aldridge

We have just been to The Oaklands for Sunday lunch. I can honestly say it was the best meal and service I have had in an awfully long time. I had roast lamb, followed by a chocolate brownie, which was the best brownie I have ever tasted. Harry and the team there were excellent, and the food was superb. Highly recommended.

My stay at The Oaklands Hotel was outstanding. The breakfast was a delicious showcase of local produce, adding a great touch to the morning. The lodge rooms which I opted to stay in were exceptionally comfortable, with a clean modern touch. Attending a friend's wedding was my reason for staying, and the hotel's convenient location and impeccable service made it the perfect choice for both relaxing and celebration. The staff were great and full of joy throughout our stay and welcomed us very warmly on arrival. Overall, I highly recommend The Oaklands Hotel for an unforgettable experience.

The lodge was spotless, very warm, quiet and comfy bed. Evening meal was lovely, staff were very helpful and friendly. Breakfast wasn't as good as previously but was rectified quickly. Will definitely return again

We were included in a party of 13 on Monday evening for a 70th birthday party. Ruby was our waitress and was absolutely excellent, she was serving us all on her own and we could not fault her, for the service and making sure everybody was happy. Mackenzie was also very good on the bar.

I feel that over a week later i have to write my review about christmas day . This is because NO ONE has bothered to get back to us with an acceptable offer / refund. What we had to endure christmas day was the WORST ever. Decorations were poor There was no christmas cocktail bar that was promised. No drinks service , you had to queue at the bar to get drinks. The £39.99 guests were walking around the restaurant abd seating themselves. A loud, noisy party who were clearly carvery had let themselves in the food hall and proceeded to put porn on the tv's. Managers were alerted. The christmas crackers were so gross, about 3p each i think. No gift inside , just a hat. The food - the starters were awful, soup you hang wallpaper with. Old stale bread for the pate. No water glasses on the table. No wine glasses either. My roast turkey meal had no sprouts. My aunt had no potatoes. They were very short staffed, we waited sooooo long for food . A table near us just got up and left. We all feel that christmas day is special to have christmas lunch out. We trusted The Oaklands to look after us. They let us down badly. I hope they have a big de- brief and identify where they went wrong. It has to be mis management or greed. I suspect too many people booked in. Would love to hear if anyone else got a refund

Im so sorry to say after having booked Christmas day at £75 per person i was expecting more than i recieved all be it the staff were very fiendly and accomidating the main meal at £75 each consisted of 2 slices of turkey a few veg and a couple of roast potatoes i was expecting a lot more no Yorkshire pudding and no stuffing Major time delays we didn't get our starters until 3pm and the main arrived at least 30mins after this to be fare we had friends in the basic Christmas meal and ours wasnt any better or deluxe Its such a shame it felt like a money making arrangement rather than considering the customer and giiving the extra mile for those that had paid the extra

Very lacking in service and amenities on our Christmas break. Table service was slow which I think was due to being understaffed. The room had a broken socket, the heating was broken and the amenities such as the TV were so old. Definitely need to upgrade. I was expecting more for the price.

Horrible, run down, dirty, smells of mold and mildew. Dirty carpet, if you don't get your breakfast you ordered the night before in an hour the manager will tell you it's your fault , while1” from your face, that everyone didn't order the same thing! Loud music, screaming, drinking fights each Friday and Saturday night. JUST ask to see a room before checking in! Gordon Ramsey would have it condemned!!

Surly and unfriendly staff who were more interested in going home than providing service. A ‘manager' reprimanded the one waiter who was trying to be more accommodating. My company uses hotels all over the country and we won't use this pit again. Rooms have been upgraded on the cheap. Corridors smell like a sweaty gym, which is ironic as there is no gym. I can see why the other hotels in the city were full tonight, yet this one was virtually deserted.

I'm not sure that this hotel would qualify for a BW Plus from me, although our stay there was pleasant enough it wasn't exceptional. We did have a room in the hotel (rather than the annexe) which was clean (enough - old soap left in the bathroom and not replaced) and comfortable the reception was a bit dark and dated with a stair carpet that had seen better days. The food choice in the evening was passable but the bar was busy and service could be a little hit and miss. Breakfast was poor by BW standards with no continental option at all and not even any juice on the second morning. The cooked element of the breakfast was however very good and the portions were large. The receptionist who checked us in was very helpful. Would I stay again - maybe but I think the food offerings would have to improve somewhat.

Arrived tired on a hot afternoon. Told our annexe room was immediately right at the bottom of the drive. Could not beleive this was the right place. Lady receptionist had to walk me down to show it WAS the hotel annexe. It looked tatty, dark and dirty, with overgrown shrubs. No way did this look acceptable for £149. On way back up the drive, receptionist offered to find us another room, number 7 in main hotel. Thank goodness, not too bad for one night. Given its location in a pretty riverside village, this hotel could be so much better, with attention to detail. Fantastic Norfolk cooked breakfast. Cannot ever remember a better hotel breakfast.

Not one of the best! Room is small, claustrophobic and stuffy. Lighting is dull and insufficient. The room has a safe that might just be large enough to accommodate an iphone, but not much more. We heard road and rail noise during the night, also when some else showers the water can be heard in our room. Doors banging and conversations in the corridor are loud from around 6 a.m. The bathroom is small and poorly designed. Could be cleaner. Will not be returning to this hotel.

Never accept room 34. Smells, has a droning noise, loud not a murmur. Didn't complain as it was late by the time we got to the room. Toilet wouldn't flush in the morning. No one on reception at check out to inform in person, but left a note written in lipstick (no pen) for the cleaner. Never accept room 34. This was a return to Oakland's after giving them a miss for a few years after a previous truly dismal experience. This return was a big mistake. Nothing had changed. I could comment further and explain our previous ordeal. But too much to say. My only advice is give Oakland's a miss. They talk a good talk, but sadly do not deliver.

We chose this hotel as we were attending a funeral nearby and the wake was being held there. The bar person in the room where the wake was held was not at all welcoming and did not give the impression that she was in any hurry to serve us. In fact we obtained our next round of drinks from the main bar and was charged £5 less! The room was described as in an annex, this was in fact a house on the main road away from the hotel along an unlit driveway. We had to walk our luggage down as there was only parking for 2 vehicles and our vehicle was parked at the main hotel. This was quite difficult for me as I have recently had surgery. When we found the house and gained entry , it can only be described as staff accommodation . The bed linen and shower room were clean but the carpet was heavily stained , so much so that I kept my shoes on at all times. We decided to stay for breakfast the next morning and went to the main part of the hotel for this. We explained that we had not booked and wanted to pay for our breakfast separately. We were told not to worry and it would be charged to the room and they would not take payment there & then. We checked out and proceeded on our journey . Four hours later we were called by the hotel to say we had not paid for our breakfasts! My husband had to pull over in the car and make the payment via the same card they already had used to pay for the room. The whole experience was disappointing at an already emotional time for us and our family.

Hotel in a great area, good size with ample parking. Did not use the restaurant but seemed ok. There was a lovely pub opposite hotel. Lovely village. Disappointing nights sleep with kitchen fan on refunded 25% ..not sure was enough

I use this hotel on a regular basis for work trips. The staff are very attentive and will go out out their way to help you. Food is excellent and very high quality. The addition of the med menu really gives a diverse range of food and plenty of choice to suit all.

Hotel is in need of massive overhaul. Grounds and maintenance very poor . Rooms very overpriced for standards, very dusty badly maintained. Windows filthy everywhere . Whole place needs painting and generally upgrading

Staff were extremely helpful, professional. The room was clean, spacious and comfortable. Amazing breakfast too - accommodated a change were needed and couldn't do enough for us. Very happy with our stay!

As a guest I could not embarrass my hostess by complaining - but my chicken ceasar salad was of a very poor quality. Mostly badly chopped iceberg lettuce, a few croutons with over cooked , dry and a very small portion of chicken bits, limited dressing and absolutely no parmesan at all. Expensive to say the least. No one came to check the meals so I could not even ask for parmesan! The meals of some of my friends were of a better standard. My ice cream was over frozen with ice crystals in it This was a menu pre ordered so no excuse for such miserable standards. As for the coffee - it was dumped onto the table - black in a cup, no saucer. Milk and spoons were brought sometime after . At this point all staff but one had vanished - obviously they were putting their energy into a forthcoming wedding. What rubbish standards. With stripped flooring and walls the accoustics are very noisy , no good for the hard of hearing. There was a strong smell of cooking meat from the open counter grill near to our table. Train your staff to serve properly. Over priced and under delivered.

Went for a meal with friends. We ordered our meals and after almost an hour, decided to check if everything was ok. We were advised that the kitchen had lost the ticket for our order and offered a drink and free desserts which we found to be an acceptable offer. When our meals finally arrived, two of us received chicken kebabs which were of extremely poor quality, made up of stringy pink thigh meat, to the point neither of us could eat them. When we mentioned this we were given an explanation of what undercooked chicken looks like. The two of us that couldn't eat our meals declined the free desserts and were given the bill, with no recognition that two out of the three of us weren't able to eat our meal. Not somewhere I would chose to eat again or recommend to anyone

We stayed in a suite on a Friday and Saturday night. The two biggest problems were cleanliness and noise.We had a broken bath tap that came off in your hand, there was a whole in the wall where a very botched job had taken place in blocking of a wall socket. The site states: Our suites also have a private balcony just for you. Our suite Salhouse,had a very dirty SHARED balcony with adjacent suite. The decking was filthy along with the rotting door. The sofa was stained and curtains absolutely filthy. Due to the noise level from the guests at two functions in the afternoon and evening it was not possible to use the balcony on both days, not just was there guests at the function but children playing on the decking below from said function. The night time noise level was absolutely disgusting, the music and mass singing was blaring out without interruption until midnight approx 10 yards away! Breakfast there is no cereal or fresh fruit, yoghurts cooked only which is good but shame nothing else available. After taking issue with noise was told by Best Western WE should of checked what was going on at hotel before booking!!! Site does state caters for weddings etc but not that you will incur noise until midnight. If you attend function and stay no doubt your have no polution. Basically unless attending function dont stay at weekend, shame as before and after so quiet.

Nice hotel and in a quiet location. Staff very friendly and they let me check in 2 hrs early. The Barton suit with a separate bedroom and balcony is with the cost of £146 per night including breakfast which is value for money. Free parking also, will return.

I booked online to go for a evening meal at the Oaklands hotel on arrival they had no record of my booking had to show them my online booking email we then had to wait for a table to be set up for us While waiting we ordered cocktails at the bar of witch the bar staff had no clue on how to make When we finally got seated and got menus when we wear asked to order what we wanted was not available and make another choice of witch we done only to be told it was unavailable this happened 3 times Once we finally found something they did have and it was served my children was very chewy and unpleasant my partners fish was not cooked and cold in the middle Very disappointing would not set foot in the place again for food

Was the location of my prom and was perfect to be able to stay here after this. Bar staff were excellent and so friendly. The room was very clean and comfortable. Plenty of space for baggage and clothes can be hung up. Very satisfied.

Having had an extremely bad experience a few weeks ago, at Best Western Park Hotel, Diss. We were , to be honest, dreading our stay at this hotel. I have to say that, it was an improvement on the afore mentioned hotel, however, that does not mean to say, that it was fantastic. We had booked a suite, which, was spacious, clean and comfortable. That said, it was not easy to find, and, even a member of staff that we bumped in to, whilst trying to find the room, did not know where it was! She did persevere though, and, we found it in the end! As with the suite that we had in Diss, there was an upstairs, and, whoever was in that room, was totally inconsiderate. They walked up and down the room for almost 20 minutes, it was like having a herd of elephants stomping around ( at 11pm ) at night ) it was impossible to sleep. Then again at 6.30am, the loud stomping around, started again, followed by slamming doors, as they left the building. When paying considerably more, for a suite, you expect to have a room, that has more privacy. We did not book for dinner, as we were meeting friends elsewhere, therefore, cannot comment on dinner. We had booked in for breakfast though, but, it was very limited. It was freshly cooked, so, nice and hot, but, there was no cereal on offer, no pastries, fruit etc. No toast, other than half a slice that came with the cooked breakfast. Tea and coffee, was served by the cup, which we had to keep asking th3 waitress for. There was also, no juice on offer. We did see someone being given a juice, from the bar, we assume, they asked for it, but, we were not told when we were being seated, or given the option, when ordering. The breakfast, for what we had, was overpriced, not value for the money. I did raise the issue of the noise from the room above ours, but, apart from a cursory, sorry about that, the issue was left at that. The hotel, was very tired in places, the areas where the suites were situated were in need of some attention, with cigarette butts on the ground outside the entrance to the rooms, and, generally on the tatty side. Not what you would expect for the price, and for what is classed as a suite. We would not return, to any Best Western hotels, having stayed in 3 now, we have had a bad experience in all of them. Premier Inns, offer far better value for money, and, a better experience all round.

My mother and i were trying to think of somewhere to go on a saturday for lunch The weather was cold so we wanted somewhere that would be nice but warm and cosy. So we settled on The Oaklands ( although we couldnt book online as it kept saying our mobile numbers not recognised on both our phones) But we thought we would chance it and turn up. We are very glad we went, the decor is lovely , although one door arch looks like christmas decs are still up. The meal was super lovely we both had lasagne. Very nice to see the side orders are very reasonable. And there was a deal on our lunch, 2 mains for £12.95 and the food was delicious. We are already looking to go back

My daughter and her now husband had their wedding here at the weekend. Absolutely fantastic, nothing was to much trouble for the staff. Malcom the wedding host was amazing definitely recommend 100% the room myself and daughter stayed i night before was lovely and enough room for all the bridesmaids to get ready in. The ceremony and reception were perfect in every way food was delicious the best u think I have ever had a weddings could not have wished for a better day. We returned the next day to collect things and again the staff were amazing. Had a lovely roast while picking stuff up it was delicious all fresh and hot. Well done to all the staff who were there on the 28th and 29th January u are all amazing

Having bought tickets to the NYE 'bar bash' in anticipation of a great New Years Eve months in advance, unfortunately Oaklands Hotel could not deliver. One issue appeared to be a joint wedding party combination with the NYE event but clearly there was no management or appropriate staffing as reception was chaos (the NYE event started at 7pm, we arrived at around 7:40), the queue for the main bar was through the lounge and out onto the patio and the food that was included with the event was nowhere to be seen. We were directed to a side room with a bar by the receptionist, but then met with another member of staff - she grunted at us having entered the room as to who we were and what we wanted which was pretty unpleasant, however once we told her she then proceeded to reception and started taking out her frustrations on the flustered receptionist - in front of the guests! Needless to say, we left our NYE tokens (assumed for food?) with the pierced nose member of staff and made our exit. Having been asked to provide feedback, we did, but unsurprisingly any reply must've got lost. The Oaklands had a refurb during lockdown I seem to remember - a year on and this investment seems like a bad idea without the staff and service to support it.

This is specific to a Boxing Day visit and may not be the same experience outside of the Christmas period. The menu was a set menu of either two or three courses. The menu had a good selection and the food was pretty decent. There were just some small things that personally for me left opportunity for improvement. For a family meal at Christmas I anticipated a little more formality. Staff were dressed casually and in trainers and pumps, the menu was a piece of paper, the table had adverts about loyalty schemes as well as huge paper table numbers. It just felt a bit cluttered and cheap. Whilst the food was pleasant enough the meals came drowned in gravy and did look precooked, especially as they came out really quickly. It would have been far nicer to of had a gravy boat and the vegetables in a separate bowl. So whilst it all tasted fine, it felt a little bulk prepared and lacking any presentation in both table, meal and staff. I'd happily visit again but wouldn't visit again for a Christmas meal.

The hotel doesn't clearly advertise the events can be heard throughout the hotel. The first night, our room vibrated due to the music playing below. The room and shower were not very clean. The receptionist we spoke to the following morning was happy to help and apologised for the inconvenience. She arranged for our bags to be moved to a new room while we were out during the day. When we returned in the evening, to ask reception for our new key, another member of staff was there. She was extremely rude to us. She was dismissive and did not want to assist. She told us where our room was but wasn't clear and after wandering around for a little while we returned to reception, to have another rude member of staff take us over to the suite. While the noise was at a tolerable level, the room again was not clean and the shower tray filled quickly (indicating a blockage). Breakfast was ok but the dining area was not clean and the chairs were dirty. We were happy to leave!

A good positive start - the breakfast is great. But …. Despite offering hollandaise sauce, it was not available! Now for the hotel. This hotel has great potential. It is in a lovely location, with a super decked balcony area, and a gorgeous green garden sitting area. But …. The room I stayed in was small, and seemed to be situated immediately above the function area. Functions were held on both nights I stayed, and on both occasions, the music was switched off, as promised, at exactly midnight. As promised ….. when we arrived. When we booked, there was no indication or warning that I would be sleeping above a loud thumping bass beat 80s disco. After a long day of travelling, I was tired. I didn't want to drift off to sleep to a bass beat thumping through my head. Same again on night 2. The bed, was, however very comfortable, but the room was so small that I had to climb over the bed to draw the curtains. Not ideal. I found the stairs difficult to manage, especially carrying luggage, but sadly there was no lift. I know hotels like to decorate for Christmas, but a little tip for the comfort (and safety) of guests would be not to wrap the handrail on the stairs in lights and fake greenery. The stairs were difficult enough to manage without having nothing to hold onto as the bannister was festooned in greenery. Ok, I could have used the other handrail, but I was using my right hand to carry my luggage. The reception area was quite open - and so it was impossible to avoid the other guests who were, to the embarrassment of staff, complaining loudly about the lack of decent parking facilities. Well, the car park resembled a game of Tetris. And for pedestrians returning from a day out, we were forced to walk along a muddy track, as so many cars were parked along the drive that cars leaving forced us off the road. So, in summary: Comfy bed Small rooms Noisy functions Chaotic parking But a great breakfast.

Never had a mattress that squeaks and creaks before every time you move. Add to that noisy late night events that we were not told about, led to two disturbed night's sleep. The breakfasts and wait staff were lovely however. There had no be something to redeem the place

We held a surprise party for my Mum's 70th birthday in the small marquee in October and it couldn't have gone any better. The staff at Oaklands were amazing and they made sure we all had the best evening. The event manager Hollie was fantastic all throughout the planning process, she's very organised and helpful every step of the way. The team decorated the marquee for us which was a huge help and it looked amazing. We had a meal in the restaurant beforehand which was also decorated in such a lovely way. Ryan and his team were all magnificent. Even though there were two separate events happening the same evening (a wedding and another birthday party), the service was still second to none. The food was lovely and the portion sizes were very generous. For the party itself, Hollie and Joanna were superstars and made sure the evening ran smoothly and the guests were all happy. They kept me updated throughout the night, which I really appreciated. The bar and waiting staff were all so wonderful. Thank you so much to all of the fabulous team, I recommend Oaklands to anyone who is looking to hold an event at a brilliant venue with amazing staff (and food)!

We did not stay but had a meal in Michaels restaurant. The manager Ryan was brilliant, making sure we were looked after and explained fully about the menu and was very friendly and attentive, will definitely be returning soon.

Went in for lunch, they have a special offer on, we have been there before for breakfasts and Sunday lunches, they have fully refurbished and looks amazing, the staff were very attentive, and the place was very clean, we would highly recommend, thanks enjoyed it very much.

Attended the oaklands for a wedding - the wedding itself was absolutely beautiful. The rest… well… it took almost 3 hours to complete the meal - 2 & half of these hours were waiting for food to come out, or come back out because it was the wrong dish. Resulting in someone standing at each table with a scrappy piece of paper trying to work out who ordered what. Expecting a 3 year old to wait almost 2 hours for a meal is absolutely appalling & to then have the cheek to ‘tut' at them whilst they're trying to keep themselves amused by leaving the dining area. The DJ was set up in a separate room to where we dined.. this caused the whole thing to be disjointed & as there were no seating options where people were dancing - it was either you were included in the party, or you weren't. Which was a shame as a lot of the older guest were not able to join in with the dancing etc

Excellent experience throughout my stay, very friendly and attentive staff. Fabulous bar and restaurant, amazing food in there reopened restaurant Micheals! Highly reccomend to anyone looking for a nice place to stay in Norwich / Norfolk

I stayed here from Friday 30.09. to Monday 3 October 2022. It was my first time at Oaklands. It appeared to be primarily a hotel for drivers: it is some way out of the centre of Norwich; the narrow driveway leading to it has no provision for pedestrians; and it has a large car park. The hotel had told me of the fairly frequent bus service from the railway station, which did not take long. Arrival and registration was smooth and fast. My room (no. 20 - photos) was easy to reach and generally quiet, apart from faint noises from the corridor and adjacent rooms. When I arrived, I was correctly told that my room was far enough away from the birthday party in progress for me not to be disturbed; this was not so true of the event on Saturday evening: the music's rhythmic thumping continued and appeared to grow slightly louder until 24:00. The staff were consistently courteous and helpful. My room was well equipped and comfortable, including a comfortable bed and quickly accessed WiFi, a hair dryer and a spacious bathroom. The wall television worked well. The tasteful decorations incorporated two still life paintings. The refreshment tray included delicious biscuits and drinks, including (most unusual) hot chocolate. Room service was efficient and discreet. There were however a few irritations: A) the bedside light and the ceiling light were linked, so that it was apparently impossible to turn off the bedside light without going to one of the two (why?) switches on the wall by the door; B) the room was warm when I arrived, as was the towel rack in the bathroom; the next day, the heat had vanished, and I was unable to turn it on again; outside night-time temperatures went below 10°C; C) there was no lamp on the desk; D) there were far too many cushions and pillows on the bed; E) there was no clock in the room. The package I had booked was for bed and breakfast. The breakfast room was large, including a terrace; the menu (table service, no buffet) was extensive, with a lot of local produce; the portions were generous and tasty. Fruit juice, normally a standard component of breakfast at such hotels, was available on request.

Booked the Annex room for peace and quiet. When I arrived I didn't think it was right. Put in the main hotel not very plush at all bathroom could do with work and a good scrub in the corners. On arrival Shower wasn't attached to the wall properly. Coffee cups and spoons not clean, spoon looked like it had been licked clean. Cleaners didn't even give clean ones for the second day.. I wonder how many people drink out the same cup without washing. Loud music till 11/12pm people shouting n laughing and some idiots having a conference shouting and hollering at 6am out side the window. Which the reception staff denied and said some residents leave early.. Well that's a lie there's a conference of 40 people every Friday morning at 6am as confirmed by the waiting staff. Still going on as I type.. seen and heard with my own eyes Checked all my paperwork couldn't see any mention of room type.. on checkout I asked if I had the annex.. Nope apparently I was "UPGRADED" to the main hotel. I booked the annex for a reason and they actually DOWNGRADED ME Will not book here again in a few weeks when I'm back in town. Considering 2 nights cost £383 I'd expect more than a £40 travel lodge would offer. ID ALSO EXPECT THE ROOM I BOOKED.

The breakfast here is amazing, so much food, well presented and tasty, lots of variety on the plate too. Although a non vegan I chose that breakfast, it had avocado, corn fritters, sausage, spinach, beans tomatoes, mushrooms, I was full up all day. Room was clean and tidy, bathroom was spotless, good toiletries, lots of towels.

Last minute Sunday night stay. Evening food and breakfast were incredible. Staff were amazing all so happy for us to be there. Lodge was great value for money. Clean and spacious perfect chill time we both needed.

Arrived and although I had email confirmation, they didn't have my booking, this is not the first time. Food was excellent, but the service totally let it down. First course came reasonably quickly, but no one ever came back to check if everything was ok. They cleared the plates and brought sweet menus quite quickly again. Again the sweets came reasonably quickly, but disappointed to find the shortbread with the crème brûlée was from a packet. After this we sat chatting for a good hour and during this time no one approached the table to clear the plates or see if we wanted any more drinks. Had to search out someone to get the bill, and again to pay. This member of staff definitely gave the impression she didn't want to be there. Spoke to someone who went the previous and they had a similar experience . Never saw the same member of staff twice. Not up to normal standard at all.

Had an amazing meal with friends , atmosphere was great . The staff we're very helpfully. We were greeted with a huge friendly smile from the host Marissa and looked after all night . Definitely recommend

Overall my stay was OK but this hotel has some issues and some good points. So to the not so good stuff, this hotel is in need of some tlc in places. Things broken or in need of repair. Just looks tired. Shower in my room was useless. The water pressure was awful. Good stuff, the breakfast was awesome. Food was fresh and good quality and served by great staff who were polite and friendly. The only downside is its not served until 7am and it took a while to arrive which made me late for my work. If the breakfast could start earlier thus would help a lot of the contractors etc who use the hotel.

We were put into a suite. The suite was lovely but is in need of repair. The bed was really comfortable and clean. The whole hotel is under improvement so we can't complain. It isn't like things are just left. It's clear that this hotel is making vast changes, so we overlooked the little things.

Stayed one night. on Bed & Breakfast basis in this barren & boring environment. Not impressed upon arrival in Room 7 to discover the curtain rail was hanging almost off the wall, and the curtains could not be drawn with any degree of confidence! We found the SHOWER to be DANGEROUS & UNUSEABLE, as it's temperature could not be reduced from it's maximum to any safe water temperature level (a spring loaded catch to permit such adjustment was completely missing from the shower mixer). I also found that there was NO wall grip/handle for support whilst trying to climb out of the bath + shower arrangement. I'm 78 years old, and any fall would be most unwelcome, so I simply can't accept that we are the first occupants of Rm 7 to have experienced these basic issues! Our £11 BREAKFAST WAS SIMPLY DREADFUL, for both VALUE & QUALITY. Our fruit juices (orange & cranberry) were delivered to our table at room temperature, but with floating ice cubes ~ so very clearly betraying the fact that they had NOT been stored under referigeration at all! In fact my 'Cranberry Juice' tasted slightly 'yeasty', so I am confident that it had already started to ferment! I ordered the 'Full English Cooked Breakfast', unwisely, it seems, as I was presented with:- 2x fried eggs that were tired, and visually uninviting ~ although, perhaps due to some oversight, impressively they both had some runny yolk remaining! Soggy and saturated mushrooms that had disintegrated, into an oily black, and pulpy mess. Fried (white) bread that was crisp, but totally SATURATED with cooking oil. 2x rashers of 'Farm shop' bacon that were virtually uncuttable. I had ordered only 1 sausage, which was fortunately acceptable. I received 1/2 round of white toast (that was perched, and served on top of, the oil-slick that was the fried bread component ~ along with a rapidly melting portion of butter.....but NO MARMALADE. Whilst all this was on offer, a selection of totally sterile, too loud, and boring music echoed around the near empty dining room ~ it seemed as if there was one other Guest dining too! ABSOLUTELY DREADFUL! We couldn't wait to leave. I did discuss the poor quality of breakfast with the Receptionist when we left, and she commented that I should have discussed it with the waitress, and obtained a replacement. I retorted that anybody who produce something that bad in a commercial kitchen basically didn't understand the problem, and there seemed very little prospect of a replacement being any better. The basic cooking problem seems that all the food was precooked, and stored in the Servery in trays with no drainage.

Nice hotel ,with plenty of a space to sit out side and relax. Sadly we had broken sleep on the Friday night due to our room over looking the car park and staff area lots of banging doors as people left.

The whole experience from check in to check out was really good. Very friendly staff. We had a ground floor suite which was very spacious and comfortable. The food in the restaurant was excellent. The hotel is situated in the really nice village of Thorpe St Andrew next to the River Yare so lovely walks along the river. It is only 2 miles from Norwich so very accessible to get there at night in a taxi if you wished.

I thought I had booked this hotel for four nights last minute, but when we arrived no booking had been received. The receptionist was very helpful and was able to offer us a room in the annex. This should be avoided if possible. It put me in mind of a hostel and we were disturbed by someone going out of the front door(next to our room) at 3.30am and returning at 4am. On asking to be moved we were then given a suite which was very nice. There were a few things in the suite, like wobbly taps and bits broken in the en-suite also the insides of the windows needs cleaning, cobwebs and dirty, but not too bad. Food in the restaurant was very good and the staff very friendly. All You Can Eat Steak Night was a bargain! The reception area could do with a bell, I had to wait a considerable time on two occasions because the receptionist was in the office and didn't hear anyone there. Parking is a bit on the tight side especially when there is a function on, a meeting on the Wednesday and wedding on Saturday.

To expensive for 1 night room was OK but not enough beds breakfast was average and had to wait an hour after ordering with 4 hungry children. They also lost my wife's wedding present she got that was placed on our table with all our things and was unable to find the personalised gin glass think was broken and they didn't want to tell us

Stayed last night for 1 night after My daughter's wedding reception - 28 May. The wedding meal was fantastic, as was the buffet later. The staff were really great and friendly. Had a room upstairs in the original building, comfy room with all the usual facilities. Full English breakfast was amazing. The recent refit and refurbishment is great. I can recommend the hotel highly.

Stayed for one night for business. The check-in was great and the receptionist was very helpful. Room looked like it had recently been refurbished perhaps, it was a lovely room, really felt nice and comfortable, much nicer than the usual basic premier Inn/chain type hotels. Food in restaurant was fabulous, menu had lots of local produce and not your standard hotel dishes. The hotel looked full and the restaurant team were working hard to serve everyone. Overall I thought this was the nicest hotel I've stayed in for business in a very long time.

Absolutely beautiful wedding venue. Staff are super friendly and very helpful nothing was to much for them. Rooms are outstanding and so spacious. Food was absolutely Devine such a great range to pick from. Couldn't fault anything the wedding venue was absolutely stunning and was a fabulous day:

I had a pleasant stay for one night on a business trip. The food was local and very delicious. The restaurant was pleasant. I got a complimentary upgrade to a suite in one of the lodges which was really nice. Would go back.

I have stayed in this hotel several times. I booked this on a black Friday deal and no way would I pay full price for this hotel as room are a little dated in there decor. The outside area and bar and restaurant area is really nice just let down by our bedroom.

I had to book last minute, single room very clean and a comfortable bed. The decor was a bit tired in the room and the bathroom needed tlc. The carpet on the stairs could do with replacing as it is quite worn. My waste paper bin hadn't been emptied from the previous occupant. Staff were lovely, the river is close by and the bus nearby takes you into Norwich. I didn't hear any noise from the bar but I was woken by people slamming doors. Good parking but hotel needs better signs I went past and had to go back. It would have been 5 stars with a bit more maintenance in the room.

Stayed on Saturday night for our anniversary ... got upgraded to a suite. Lovely surprise! Had a couple of afternoon drinks in the sun (it was cold but the terrace is gorgeous! And all heated and undercover!). We booked for dinner at 7.30pm .. it was busy but we wanted to have a drink or two in the bar first. The hostess was really accommodating and told us to let her know when we would like to sit down. All in all a lovely weekend away. Breakfast was great too (hubbie of course had the full Norfolk ... I opted for the pancakes!). Thank you Oaklands. 1st April 2022.

Had my 40th birthday here with family and friends coming along to celebrate with me... couldn't be looked after more! Room looked lovely, buffet was lovely, staff were lovely. Roll on my 50th! Saturday 2nd April 2022

My son & I experienced great friendly hospitality from the staff at Oaklands as we relaxed on their patio. We ordered their Sunday plated Roast Dinner. I had the lamb and my son had the beef.Generous portions and a great variety of roasted vegetables plus all the sauces and extra gravy. The lamb was tender and succulent and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I highly recommend. Very delicious and tasty and I will be back for more! Encore ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The service offered was not the reality. We were an inconvenience to the staff, the function room was dirty, the curtains needed an iron, we found a dead fly on a serving area, decorations from the night before, gas heaters that should be condemned and dirty cups and saucers. Discusting. I should have taken photos.

Kitchen extractor fans should not be located next to a guest room, 15 in my case. Phone didn't work at all, toilet valves fitted incorrectly that did not allow enough water to enter the cistern. The toilet door had a lock but it was broken

Friendly staff, good experience, value for money - you can find faults if you look close enough but I always enjoy my business stays at the hotel and would recommend. Breakfast is varied, comprehensive and service is quick. Rooms functional with the relevant amenities.

Staff excellent. Food great (breakfast) Room a little under par for cost Hotel is also a venue and this does create a lot of noise until midnight in certain parts of the hotel including some rooms - OK if you are in attendance but not so good if you are staying for another reason. (check with hotel before booking maybe?) It is a 3 star hotel so facilities are basic - bed could be better ! Just a little out of the city but the walk in is OK (but not with a case from the station) and the bus service stop very close by.

On booking explained that my wife had difficulty with steps so where given am upgrade to a suite which had all disabled facility and was on the ground floor . On arrival all be it two hours ahead of normal booking in time. Room was available and staff friendly. Had booked a dinner slot ahead of arrival, again very attentive staff and found out which items were suitable for Gluten Free. Really good selection of food well-presented and good quantity and quality . Booked an dearly breakfast on Sunday as we had to be in Norwich early . Again, friendly staff and food great

Went there on valentines night.starters onion soup very nice main meal chicken was vey dry and veg under cooked.afters was supposed to be cream and strawberrys but ended up with icecream did mention it but no responce.

As we had been invited to a wedding at this hotel, we decided we would book a room and stay. Everything from booking the room, to checkout was very good in the hotel. The only complaint we would have as so would many more, we got freezing cold in the marquee, which unfortunately spoilt the enjoyment of the lovely wedding breakfast you presented to us and the wedding celebrations.

We booked a Sunday meal, the starters were fine but the two roast dinners were tepid. This was extremely disappointing as on the previous occasion my meal was cold. I asked for a free bottle of wine to make up for our disappointment and as we had finished our wine and would have nothing to drink when our meals were returned. There was no response to this except to say he would speak to someone. Both our meals were hotter but the standard of food was poor. The carrots were hard, the Yorkshire pudding and the broccoli were over cooked, the gravy was of poor quality and the lamb was tough, we didn't finish all of the meal. The Christmas promotional voucher was honoured and the bottle of wine had been removed from the bill although I would have been quite happy to pay for the bottle of wine that we had finished prior to our meals being returned. We are local to this restaurant and have had some lovely meals in the past but sadly won't be visiting again.

Have been back to this hotel on lots of occasions since our marriage at this venue, but the meal tonight was not good mains were really nice but the dessert for which we both ordered the cheese board was not worth the £9.95, 5 small thin crackers, a spoon full of chutney and 3 small pieces of cheese and when we were here in December we got given gold envelopes with tickets to be used in January or February which we had 2 free cocktails, after leaving the restaurant and going to the bar were told that we needed to order while having a meal needless to say we left the restaurant and bar without receiving the cocktails. We will not be returning anytime soon

Arrived in the afternoon check in ok put our belongings in the room which was pleasant and went to bar for a drink.the bar was staffed by a Nora batty character who didn't seem to know her way around the bar but eventually we got our drinks We booked a meal in Micheals restaurant after looking at the menu on line and decided to have the pork loin but when the menu arrived via the waiter there was no mention of pork loin only a limited menu which neither of us could find something we liked apparently we read a sample menu however we decided on a starter each which was soup and a baked Camembert for the main we chose lasagna when this arrived it was not acceptable at all tepid to say the least and nothing like a lasagne so we sent these back with no charge on our bill we then retired to our room hoping for a decent breakfast but we will see

We had a Christmas carvery in your marque today…. Wow! Absolutely fantastic. From the moment we arrived we were met by friendly helpful staff. My daughter was made to feel very special with a little bag of goodies and personal treatment. The food was fantastic and all were working so hard to get the food served quickly. It was above and beyond expectations, thank you very much Oaklands. Definitely be back again next Christmas!

Stayed in a lodge Wednesday evening, lovely room spotlessly clean, loving the lounge area. Met family in restaurant for dinner, food was amazing great service, polite and helpful staff , we all had a great evening. Breakfast served until 11am great idea, we had a lay in!!!

I can thoroughly recomend this hotel as it is very clean and comfortable and the staff very attentive. My only complaint is that finding it, in the dark, after a 7 hour car journey was a nightmare! The sign at the drive entrance is very small, unlit and can only be seen from one direction. We passed it once and very nearly a second time.

Great hotel, very helpful staff, fantastic breakfast, now booked in again for new year. Nothing was too much trouble, especially as they were very busy on the front desk, due to Xmas parties. Already looking forward to going back, and the breakfast was top notch.

having had an exellent meal at this hotel,we tried to book a table for christmas lunch on line.This was confirmed by e mail,with no mention of a deposit necessary . This was followed up by a phone call from the reception asking us for a £60 deposit for 4 persons or £15 each . There is no mention on line booking about a deposit.I was told i must pay it regardless or cancell the booking .....we cancelled deciding that in the current threat of a cancellation that being too much to pay

The reception had my name wrong [3 factors!]. They did not offer me a room on a lower floor when I said that I had knee replacements. The shower was too hot. The breakfast undercooked. The staff unfocused

the noise coming from the staff rooms above was unacceptable. constant banging and crashing, shouting and general noise all through the night. ruined weekend stay. the room was run down, stained carpets and run down bathroom and tiles. shower pressure was useless.

I recently attend a wedding here, omg what a shambles, on arrival we ordered drinks only to be ordered into ceremony and leave our expensive drinks behind! Not organised at all, waited a while for food and some had to wait longer so everyone eating at different times, food was disgusting, roast potatoes tasted of disinfectant and veg?! What veg, the profitorols were bitter no one on our table ate them. Need I say more.

Was very happy with our stay. We had originally booked an Airbnb in the centre of Norwich but after 1 night left due to safety concerns and noise levels. We were left with no accommodation for our last 2 nights and just turned up at Best Western hoping for the best. The check-in staff were really helpful and got us booked in. The rooms were better than our Airbnb. We stayed in the Annex where the acoustics meant you could hear people coming and going to the other 8 or so rooms but it was so much quieter than our original venue. A couple of miles from the city centre but still a doable walk (50min) or a 5min drive. Preferred being 2 miles out & quiet than city centre a really loud.

I will make it short and simple, absolutely disappointed, my wife and I, with my mother of 84, whilst sitting and waiting for our order, a group of about 12 women walked in rowdy, loud and obviously didn't give a monkeys about people also in restruant. We then opted to sit outside in the cold under heaters, to escape the noise of said table, . The restruant manager I assume couldn't give a monkeys either, the waitresses were apologetic. The food came and for its price was not good at all, Strongly urge you to find a decent restruant, this one is definitely a never ever go back to again. Learn by your mistakes.

I can only echo what a previous reviewer reported on the café at The Oaklands hotel. 4 friends met for a coffee and lunch and I can safely say none of us will be repeating the exercise and will not recommend it to anyone else. Such a shame as the café is lovely and looks to be a recent addition to the hotel. However, we have never been met by such surly, miserable staff who were not in the least bit interested whether they had customers or not. We ordered coffee while waiting for a 4th member of the party to arrive. This was served in a large cup with no saucer and no spoon. Staff promptly disappeared and we had to go and ask for cutlery. When it was time to order lunch, the staff had done a disappearing act again and we had to search for someone to serve us. When we ordered lunch it did arrive quickly (I wonder how they can prepare fresh sausage and mash in 10 minutes....?) but barely a word was exchanged from the waitress who looked completely bored. We asked for a jug of tap water and four glasses which another waitress brought and slammed down on the table with such force, I am amazed she didn't break one of them. It actually brought a smile to our faces as she looked so cross! The food wasn't too bad but we will not be returning for our next reunion. Shame as it could be so nice and is in a great spot where parking is not a problem and is just outside the city.

Very happy with the hotel, the room was very clean and had everything that you could need. The staff were very cheerful , friendly and helpful. The only thing that was too good was the mattress, it was hard and lumpy.

Service bad had to wait for ages for food after having to find a waitress who was pleasant. We ordered half a chicken which was so dry we couldn't eat it all as it was too dry and tough to cut. Was very Disappointed. We ordered the pudding which was good but also a reallly long wait we almost forgot we had ordered it! We were then charged extra for the chips (which was on the menu as part of the chicken dish) . I queried this as was told it was a fault of the till! Sorry this is now crossed off my list to return ☹️

I thought long and hard about spending the extra money on an upgrade to a superior room and wish I hadn't bothered. Although the space is large the room needed an uplift. There is a 'kitchen area' with a kettle, a sink and empty cupboards. No fridge, plates or cutlery so not sure what the sink is for. Plenty of room for a fridge which you would expect in a superior room. There was no air conditioning only a fan, it was unbearably hot in the night. The outside terrace had very old metal chairs and a table, not exactly a comfortable area to sit at. It also hadn't been swept for ages so there were leaves everywhere. The lounge sofa was old, not very comfortable at all. The bathroom was ok, although very dark in the shower cubicle. There was lots of space and the room was quiet as the superior rooms are located at the rear of the hotel in their own blocks of 4 but other than that I can't think of anything nice to say. We didn't eat at the hotel but the bar did provide ice for our drinks which we needed as no fridge. Plenty of parking and easy access into town. Save your money and don't bother with the superior rooms.

We booked Sunday Lunch at the Oaklands Hotel, The venue is quit pleasing and the lunch was let down by poor attention to detail. The Staff are not organised for a busy service and a lack of experience is all to obvious, Lots of young inexperienced staff where just overwhelmed by the volume of people, 20 mins to get a drink and no wine menu offered, (so we stuck with the beer). The food was not bad but again lacked the little touches. I would get in some staff trainers for the full time staff and hopefully they can pass the training on to the part-timers. its a shame as it could be very good.

The actual hotel rooms were clean, well furnished and the bed was really comfy, so no complaints there at all. Big props to the cleaning staff at the hotel for doing such a good job! My main grumbles were with the service in the restaurant, it took 20 minutes for anyone to say hello and seat us, we were then waiting another 30 minutes for someone to take our order as the item we wanted wasn't on the app. We had similar instances during breakfast for the entire 4 days we stayed there, with really slow service and poor customer service in general. My eggs were also very sloppy on the last day we stayed there after it took 45 minutes to be served.

Booked here at the last minute to try somewhere different for my husbands birthday. Unfortunately there was not much choice left so had an economy room on a bed and breakfast basis. The room was an economy room and it was small but clean and comfortable. The room was really warm as its above the kitchen. The staff were great though and got us a really good fan which really helped us. The breakfast was really good value and with great ingredients. We also Hadd dinner there twice as it was so good, really reasonable and the staff were so helpful and attentive. There was a great atmosphere too and it was so pretty. Had a great time and will definitely be back!

Booked for work trip… single room like a box but comfy bed and clean. The service though is terrible. Me and my colleague waited 40 mins for breakfast one morning and watched others who sat down later than us get served. When I asked and explained we had to get to work they said ‘it's next out' and didn't even apologise. Same the previous night for a drink, we asked 4 people if they could take our drinks order ‘someone will be over'. Wasn't just us too, could see others experiencing the same. Maybe they're short staffed due to covid etc but just saying sorry and acknowledging it would be nice!

Went on a Black Friday deal and after being rescheduled because of Covid we really couldn't have asked more from the staff who are the greatest asset to this hotel.They could not have done more they were really helpful and if we wanted more they got it. We had a suite with a terrace overlooking the garden and separate lounge and bedroom. The only Problem we found was with the wet room when the shower went on it wet the towels and the whole of the floor in the bathroom. We just moved the towels to stop them getting wet apart from this mo other problems and we heard no noise after 11:00 pm .

“Dirty burger” just a plain cheeseburger! Honestly I know they have done the place up but seriously the prices are a joke. £14 for a bland burger and chips! The actual beef was lovely but it literally had a cheese slice in it and a bit of lettuce that's not a dirty burger it's a naff cheeseburger £10 for a cocktail and £5 for a pint it's top end prices with very mediocre food I won't return

I was left stranded in Norwich due to a booking.com error. This was the last room I could find. The receptionist was brilliant. She ensured me that the room was available. I called again to confirm and she was very nice in telling me it is all sorted for me. Food was amazing. Servers were amazing. Very polite

Really disappointing two night stay. The ‘superior suite' is essentially an outdoor lodge type building which looks like a shed and is shared by a number of other rooms. Wouldn't call the accommodation dirty as such, more so very tired and old. The mattress was the worse nights sleep I've ever had. We were on the ground floor and could hear every footstep from upstairs. Definitely lower end of the market but for £150 a night and the photos on their website they make themselves out to be much higher grade than what they are. Would not recommend.

Just finished a distinctly mediocre 3 days at the Oaklands where we were booked in to attend a wedding. Rated as 3 star we weren't expecting a 5 star service but the Oaklands fails to impress right from the start. Firstly a ramshackle and overgrown entrance means that driving past the hotel entrance is a real possibility especially in the dark . Once we realised where the driveway was, we arrived in a tatty carpark littered along the back wall with cans and bottles with an strong smell of cannabis- this we found when we parked, was coming from a guy squatting beside his white van openly smoking weed. Tired after our 5 hour drive and, not wanting to make a fuss, my husband refused to let me mention the guy in car park and instead the pleasant receptionist booked us in. I requested an iron and ironing board at check in and was told there were none available until the following day- this request had to be repeated twice more the following morning before the iron arrived. Our room was on the top floor with a lovely view of….. the roof! But more importantly it was the smallest hotel room I have ever been given as a double room. Bearing in mind that the double bed announced the expectation that 2 people would be sharing this room, the floor space was miniscule even despite the fact that it contained nothing more than a small double bed , 2 bedside tables and a very small vanity unit/desk ( on which was crammed a dodgy looking kettle, the “tea and coffee making facilities tray” a desk light , a hand mirror and a box of tissues- the hand mirror was essential as the “mirror above the vanity unit was warped rather like a circus mirror). The single wardrobe had enough hanging space provided you only wanted to stay couple of days but there was literally no other storage. This meant that we spent 3 days with our clothes in our cases and all the other makeup/wash bags/hair products etc on the floor. It ended up looking like a teenager's bedroom with stuff literally everywhere! A request for more storage prompted a raised eyebrow from the receptionist and was then studiously ignored for the rest of our stay. The bathroom housed the narrowest bathtub it's possible to buy – my 6ft husband would have struggled to use it and a serviceable but rather tired shower. Again, no storage space beyond one glass shelf above the lavatory. Windowless as many hotel bathrooms are, the noisy extraction fan had to run for a considerable amount of time before the steam from one shower allowed a second person to use the bathroom. Housed at the top of the hotel the room was stiflingly hot and had no fan or air conditioning – in the real heat of summer it must be utterly unbearable. The hotel décor everywhere is rather bizarre ( the main stair carpet is tartan, the reception floor a sort of 90's limewashed oak and the rooms have a sort of 80's vibe) and very tired but we know that Covid has brought real hardship to the hospitality industry and to be fair the room was clean and the bed, if a little saggy, was comfortable enough. For me however it wasn't the room that let the Oaklands down it was its food, it's Covid compliance and the poor staff organisation. We ate twice at the Oaklands, at the wedding and once at breakfast. The wedding breakfast service was chaos- whole tables were finished one course while others were still waiting to be served. Despite having the food prechosen and the menu choice written inside of each place setting the staff were basically roaming the marquee asking if anyone had ordered the meal they had in their hand! It was like a well dressed greasy spoon café – “ who ordered the chicken? I've got a roast beef and a salmon here- anyone for salmon?” When it arrived, the food had obviously been plated up and reheated or set under lights for a long time as the plates were red hot and the vegetables had passed through “well done” to “deceased”- all apart from the new potatoes that were like bullets! The young staff seemed utterly stressed and under managed and whilst very sweet and obliging individually, were obviously totally overwhelmed. It was the same at breakfast the next day. We joined another couple on their table just as they finished their meal. Despite taking our order, returning with drinks and then with our food the waitress left the detritus of the other couple's meal on our table, and it was still there when we left. The staff member taking just 2 orders from the table still had to ask whom had ordered what and trying to attract anyone's attention for more coffee or condiments proved very problematic- other customers around us were complaining of the same thing. Finally – Covid compliance. The hotel is in England and therefore at the lowest level of Covid restrictions in the UK. However, this seems to have been an excuse for the management to lift their foot off the pedal and ignore Covid altogether . Staff nominally wear masks ( that is they have them but mostly they seem to live under their chin, hang off their ear or below their nose- in fairness the younger staff were better at wearing their masks than their elders). On our first night we went down to the bar (which is mostly outside on a newish looking decked terrace) and in the hour we were there we didn't see one table or chair sanitised – this was a feature of our stay and whilst there were still Covid notices up and hand sanitiser at the door it did not appear that the staff felt the need to use it. All in all I can't in good conscience recommend the Oaklands – it certainly isn't somewhere you'd want to spend a great deal of time in terms of either comfort or experience. Covid has been a dreadful time for the hotel trade but that is not an excuse for poor service and bad food – we are regular visitors to Norwich and it would have great to find a great place to stay at a reasonable cost but the Oaklands isn't it.

Facilities and food were basic, with service to match, and the prices higher than other places we stayed where all three were better. The dinner menu was fairly uninteresting and although the food was ok the serving staff seemed uninterested in more than just dumping it on the table in front of us. No offer to pour our wine, or ask if we'd like to taste it, both of which seem to be normal practice in most restraurants. As the evening wore on, it didn't seem to occur to any of the staff to turn more lights on (atmospheric is one thing; not having enough light for three of our party to read the menu is quite another!) There seemed to be a lot of cutlery and crockery dropped but maybe that was down to the low light conditions! On the plus side, the breakfast menu was better (I had the veggie breakfast, and it was very nice) although marred a little by the coffee being restricted to a single mug each of what tasted like instant coffee.

Stayed with family, one night. There was a wedding on (no problem) so it was understandably busy, but every drink order took 45 mins to arrive. If a large event is going to impact on service - charge me less. The dining area opposite the open grill-kitchen was occupied in part by a family group. The men were drunk and loud, shouting and gesturing at staff and other diners. We couldn't hear ourselves think so moved. The staff seemed unwilling to do anything about this behaviour - it went unchallenged. If Oaklands are aiming their product at the bottom end of the market, then they've achieved their aim. Breakfast tea/coffee order was taken promptly, but took 25 mins to materialise (it wasn't busy). When it did arrive, it was minus the order of 1 of our table. Toast arrived without a side plate or clean knife for the butter. No marmalade was offered. Yes, we could have asked for it, but paid £118 for my stay which included breakfast. Let's say the room was £90 - £25 for breakfast is steep, but could just about be justified with attentive service with attention to detail. Both sadly lacking. The "bucket" of condiments hadn't been replenished from the night before and was devoid of anything useful (tartare sauce with your full English anyone?). For the price tag, you would expect FAR higher standards of service and also a better standard of behaviour from fellow diners. VERY disappointing stay.

No towels in room prior to arrival and yellow stained bath mat which should have been checked. Steak meal was lovely although asked for medium and came out rare. Slow service in morning and at check out . Overall nice break away for one night

If you are looking for a gastronomic experience that is something a little bit special you can't go wrong with the Oaklands. The addition of a Josper (a hybrid grill and oven to us laymen) has enabled them to provide such delights as Holkham Estate Beef fillet, King ribs, Lamb rump and free range Chicken There is also an extended fish menu including beautifully cooked Lobster and crab.I intend to return soon to try the Skate wing. and Sardines. Oysters are a new experience for the area.There is also a spectacular bar menu and the local wine is a bit special too. In my opinion the Baccus tastes better than the New Zealand Sauvignon which compares favourably with other brands served in the area, If you want a culinary treat this hotel, in one of Norwich's more picturesque settings, is well worth a visit.

My room was awful. Resting feet inside a shower when using the toilet is not good at any time... Decor very old and tiles dreadful. Shower cubicle fine for a midget. Tiled floor in bar / breakfast area cracked and chipped and looks shabby (Also a breeding ground for bugs) Worse was the attitude of the staff - rude, unhelpful, uncaring, unfriendly and all for £80! Fine if this was a £30 hostel but Best Western is / was a brand I trusted to offer good accommodation and good service, how wrong I was.

Overall a very good stay.On arrival,we were lucky to be upgraded to a suite which was a lovely gesture.When we got to the room and looked onto the balcony,there was a beer bottle full of cigarette butts which wasn't the best sight. We don't smoke so didn't particularly bother us. As we sat with our feet up on the pouffe in the evening,I lifted the top and was shocked by what was in there...empty packaging from adult toys which had an address on...not what we wanted to see...hope they are removed for the next guests...good stay but glad to be home x

Two seniors needing to stay in this area of Norwich, booked the Hotel through Great Western, with no issues. The deal was on a Bed, Breakfast and Evening meal basis, although the evening meal was actually an Allowance of £20.00 per head, which is fair enough. First, find the Hotel. The entrance is overgrown, and is not easy to spot, but the car park once you find it is perfectly adequate. Don't park under the trees if you want a clean car in the morning ! The Receptionist was warm and friendly, and the booking in swift and perfectly acceptable. There is no lift, but a member of staff was summoned and very happy to help with luggage. Our room was in the main hotel, and whilst rather small had everything you could normally require from a mid-range hotel. We happened to be in Room 8, and it does have it's idiosyncrasies. The safe is on the bottom of a very cramped wardrobe space, and to read the instructions, I found it necessary to take a photo on my phone ! A printed list of Hotel Amenities is available in the room, so why instructions are not on that, I do not know. Plenty of drawer and wardrobe room, plus the normal tea/coffee tray, all fine. One bedside light failed to operate, and the television was interesting to operate as the remote had no battery cover. The mirror in the bathroom had one of two mirror lights out, the toilet flush was an experience, and the shower head was growing a fair crop of mould. Bathroom toiletries were fine. We were expecting guests for Dinner, and so went down to organise a table for the evening. Staff were excellent, warm and cheery. Do note that if you book a specific table for dinner, then you also have to book another table for drinking at, if you do not want to be at the table you booked for dinner. Later, we could see why, as the establishment was very busy. The menus are 'interesting' There are no starters, so straight into the mains. To be fair there was a very good selection of dishes. Two of my party choose the £60.00 whopper steak, and when this was ordered, asked for it to be cut in two, and served as such, as suggested on the menu. When it was served, it was whole on one plate, and the second guest received nothing. So, dish returned to the kitchen. The steak I understand was good, but the chips supplied were minimal, and really only a single portion. I choose the curry, and the actual curry was fine, but totally inadequate sauce for the large portion of rice and two naan breads. A very dry meal. A good selection of desserts, served nicely. Difficult for me to eat my cheese board for two reasons. One the cheese was icy cold straight from the fridge, and I was given to spoon and fork to eat it. Knife arrived about ten minutes later. The staff are young and nice, but somewhere along the line there is a training need. We ordered further drinks at the table, staff had to be reminded, and this took at least another ten minutes to arrive. Breakfast the following morning was weird. No fruit juice or fresh fruit. My poached eggs (totally overcooked and hard)and two bacon slices served on bread with no butter, or offer of butter, very strange. The hotel has a simply delightful large deck area, nicely set out with overhead heaters. What a shame the management do not look over the Deck Rail and note all the rubbish and rammel that guests have from time to time thrown over, and the grass was in a very unkempt state. So, our meal for four, with wine and supplementary drinks came to £220.00. Good value ?, not really. Would we stay at the hotel again, yes we would, but it's biggest asset is the staff. Lots of attention to detail required for the Hotel.

Having booked a “family room” on the basis that we have a family, including a young child, we were somewhat surprised to find that we had been given a room directly above the busy restaurant. The first night (of 3) was loud enough due to the sounds of busy dining. It was difficult trying to settle our 4 y/o with the noise, but we managed eventually. The second night, however was a complete joke. There was a DJ playing thumping tunes directly underneath the room! We made a complaint to the manager who advised they would offer an alternative room if they were able, but all rooms were full. They offered to ring around other hotels for alternative accommodation but no vacancy to move. The manager offered a refund if we wanted to checkout, but that would have left us without any accommodation. Just not an option when we have activities booked and paid for over the weekend. The DJ was asked to turn the music down, but this apparently couldn't be done til 9.30pm. Funnily enough, the volume wasn't actually reduced until 10. After this time the music was turned down a little, but it was still loud enough to hear the lyrics clearly from 2 floors up and we had the added bonus of it being supported by the sounds of drunken banter! We were grateful for the attempts of the staff to help, and we were glad the manager acknowledged our concern but were absolutely fuming to be put into this position. Anyone with a young child will understand how hard it is trying to settle them when there is loud anything, let alone dance music playing very loudly directly outside the bedroom window. After over an hour of unsuccessful attempts trying to settle daughter, the manager found a single room in another part the hotel which one of us moved into with our daughter. The other stayed in the original room as the new room was not big enough for us all. The new room was marginally quieter for about 20 mins, but then we found that the DJ actually turned the music up! Our daughter finally fell asleep at 9.45 out of pure exhaustion. To make it clear, we are not unreasonable people; everyone is entitled to have fun, and if we had booked for a single adult or a couple, our opinion would be different. Our issue is that this should not have been marketed as a family room, it simply isn't suitable for a family!!! Car parking was horrendous. There was a van blocking one way of the car park so everyone was driving in, only to find the car park full and having to turn around and/ or reverse back out again. Complete chaos! We had to ask at reception for assistance with parking as it was included with our booking. We were told to park in a disabled bay! We booked what we had expected to be a quiet, family friendly hotel so that we could enjoy a pleasant weekend break. Definitely not quiet or family friendly and our weekend break was ruined as a result. We will never be back and will be warning everyone we know not to stay here.

Experienced a lovely lunch today at Oakland's. Young waiter Ryan, looked after us so well, was charming and very attentive. So pleased with my choice of lunch, lobster and fries, excellent ! My first visit and I will go back loved it.

Had a fantastic stay at the Oaklands. Great to have a night away after lockdown restrictions eased. Our room was extremely clean & comfortable. Had a lovely meal on the terrace. Fantastic atmosphere & live music from a very talented musician. Very busy, but plenty of staff on hand. A shame we could only have our table for 2 hours, but understand why. Enjoyed a lovely breakfast too. Look forward to our next visit.

We stayed overnight last night on postponed Black Friday deal and it was great. We arrived for checkin and was greeted by an extremely friendly receptionist who was really helpful. My husband booked a superior chalet as we stayed in one of these when they were first built, the chalet has a lovely terrace plus loads of space for two people. The bathroom is huge with toiletries and fluffy towels provided. My only criticisms are the rooms are now a bit tired and are ready for a revamp, there is no fridge to cool your wine and the terrace needed a really good sweep between each guest, apart from that a brilliant stay.

My wife and I spent a night at the Oaklands hotel as we had an evening meal booked and thought we'd add a room and breakfast as well to give an extra feel of relaxation. We had booked a suite, which included a separate lounge and bedroom, as well as a double shower cubicle (giggity) and a jet bath. The suite was spacious and had a nice outside balcony. However, the finer details really let it down. The room was in desperate need of some TLC, decor was dated and dog-eared and didn't make you feel you were in a luxury suite, and while the shower was nice, we were massively let down by the bath as the jets did not work :(. On the plus side the food experience was excellent. In the evening we shared a 16oz ribeye steak which I was delighted could be served blue (a true indication of quality), and was accompanied by multiple sides (double chips, double onion rings, double veg) and 3 different sauces. It was a feast of very high quality. in the morning we continued to be impressed by the dining experience. it was a lovely morning so we sat out on the dining terrace for breakfast which had a lovely atmosphere, and the food was delicious. I opted for scrambled eggs, salmon and avocado on toast and it was divine. my wife had poached eggs and salmon as was equally impressed. Overall we very much enjoyed our time here, but do feel the rooms could use a good spruce up.

5 of us have just been for afternoon tea £16.95 each 1 2tier cake selection was awful sandwiches not even 1 slice of bread each a small sausage roll that was the highlight of the food £85.75 so awful ii did bring it to there attention that it wasn't worth the money they made some more sandwiches and they gave us a bucks fizz so they knew it was very dissapointing never again

Stayed at The Oaklands in Fritton Suite. Absolutely amazing stay from start to finish. Staff were friendly, happy and helpful. Suite was comfortable, one of the best night's sleep I've had in ages. Loved the little veranda with own picnic table. Evening meal was superb! Pork tomahawk....wow!! Loved the restaurant set up. The outside space was amazing. Like the fact the hotel boss walked around introducing himself, helping with table service and giving people blankets as it got a little chilly in the evening. Breakfast was superb. I have recommended The Oaklands to all our friends. Thank you for a lovely stay.

Having visited the Oaklands for leisure over the last few years, when a meeting over a coupe of days came up in Norwich, I booked myself and three colleagues into the Oaklands and we all had a suite in the grounds. On arrival the pace is buzzing and when you see the bar and restaurant area and food they turn out including using a " Josper " to its best you can see why they are very busy. Breakfast wa amazing on both days and such great choice well done a chef's you're great The rooms that we had in the grounds were spotless and great places to work and stay for a coupe of days Excellent just excellent. However, the best thing about this hotel.......... simply wonderful attentive friendly helpful staff, each and everyone o hem reflected the hotels rising standards. All four of us ravel not around the country and indeed the world do for a of us to say just how good the staff are must show the very very high standard these guys work at. Cap that off with a hello on both nights from Marcus the owner made the whole stay great. We will be back to use the Oaklands as base or meetings in the very near future. Thanks all at Oaklands

We met our daughter and partner at the hotel for lunch. The food was lovely. The staff were excellent could not have been more polite and friendly. As it was our daughters birthday , the owner even gave her a glass of prosecco. We will definitely be back.

A delayed (due to COVID) overnight stay. All aspects of this stay were super (even the staff dealing with our ‘room neighbours' music in the early hours). The room was comfortable, the evening meal was superb - the best lasagne I have ever eaten! and breakfast in the morning was brilliant, very filling. All of the staff here help to run this place so efficiently and the boss even came around the dining tables to chat to everyone in the evening. It felt very well organised, safe and that they genuinely valued every customer even though we had booked it through a Black Friday deal. This hotel deserves it's good reviews, they really work hard here.

Having passed several times, thought it a suitable location to mark the new phase of "covid freedom". A lovely lunch on the terrace, with enough sunshine to make it comfortable. Good food and excellent wine. Thoughtful and pleasant staff.

I live locally so just came for drinks and food, it is very professional lovely staff and was pleased to see Winbirri Wines and Suffolk olives on the list meaning local produce being sourced. The owner came and thanked me for my custom was really a nice touch.

Lovely food and very good service highly recommended , the outdoor seating was well covered and heated . The staff were always on the go checking that everyone was happy and had everything they needed. Even the owner was making sure everyone was having a lovely time x

We were a table of 6 (pre-booked) and sat down, expecting waiting staff to come with menus, take orders etc. We sat there for a while and eventually managed to catch someone's eye only to be told it was all done trough the app on the table (if we,'d been told when we sat down we could ha saved a good 30 minutes) The drinks came out sporadically as did the food...eventually! Our1st meal came, followed by a dish of veg.....and the next one was around another 10 mins....and this is how it went on. The next 2 plates came out after about another 10 mins along with some veg of which most was inedible After sitting there for nearly 2 hours one of our party still hadn't their main course, another hadn't got the drink they ordered with their food, another had her main meal refunded as it was inedible and 3 of us cancelled the dessert otherwise we may have been there all evening I appreciate it's the first Sunday out after lockdown but the hotel knew how many were eating as everyone was pre booked but I'm afraid the standard of food and service wasn't all that it could have been (every member of staff we spoke to was apologetic about the wait etc) but I, and the other members of our party, would certainly think twice about going back to the hotel

We decided to get our mum a take away afternoon tea for Mother's Day and the Oakland's managed to squeeze us in last minute. The afternoon teas were packaged lovely and the quality of the food was very good. Highly impressed.

The kitchen staff are very nice and always so lovely to speak to, I have been staying here since June and they have always looked after me. The food they produce is absolutely phenomenal, Aaron and Ross are incredible chefs and make such good high quality food. The hotel is an amazing place to stay with absolutely brilliant staff all throughout from the hotel staff to the restaurant/terrace staff. 10/10 for me and really feels like home and a second family to me. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a place to to eat or stay in the Norwich area.

I will thank all the staff for the time i stay in this hotel. Very help full and friendly staff. The rooms are nice and good. The restaurant serve very nice and good food. After 6 month it was hard to say good bye.

We were offered an indoor table with a wink when we were clearly not from the same household. Not a good start. Terrace was chilly and it rained the night we visited so we did get a bit wet. The food was ok but part of the order was forgotten despite 4 times of reminding. Some of the staff very pleasant and attentive. Drinkers not eating at a table, not comfortable with the flouting of the rules. I wouldn't rush back. The car parking is also a nightmare

I have visited the Oaklands many times over the past few years and have always enjoyed my stay. they have made a lot of refurbishments in the downstairs areas of the restaurants and bars which is absolutely delightful. We had a Sunday lunch and the food was exceptional. The breakfast was the best breakfast I think I have ever had, with very tasty produce from the on-site Farm Shop.

I have stayed in a couple of hotels in Norwich , but the Oaklands is my favourite. The staff a really friendly and always helpful. The food is amazing , I have always had really good meals here. The BAR/ Restaurant area is very nice area. Don't just take my word for it .. go see yourself

Stayed for two nights for work - would recommend purely for the food! Had the Norfolk burger on day one, that is a seriously good eat! The rib eye steak was glorious, and the brownie is to die for! Fist bump to the chef!

Definitely recommend this hotel for location, parking, service and amenities. We have stayed at this hotel several times over the past few years. The current system shows that the hotel has upgraded its facilities.

Chose the Oakland's due to location and cannot sing its praises enough Our twin room was clean and modern ... the receptionist said that they were upgrading their rooms Food was amazeballs. Sirloin steak cooked to perfection and the chicken with the mushroom sauce was divine. A lovely Norfolk wine list and a lot of Norfolk Gins .. really like the Norfolk theme. The staff were friendly and attentive. Such a shame it's lockdown number 2 ... we'll definitely be back and would highly recommend the Oakland's. Thank you all for a great time.

Restaurant only -Sunday 14.00 lunch - 1 st service was slow ( drinks took 25 mins from ordering by which time starters arrived). Mussels (for 3) had a 20% non-edible rate , the chicken roast was bland , the lamb roast had passed its best and was almost tasteless, my wife liked the skate though. The veg portions were mean and over cooked. Seats were basic/hard. Lot of space given over to selling meat, veg, bread etc... from the associated farm shop ( in the same room) made the experience a bit too cafe-like rather than restaurant.£107 for 3 was poor value for money. We were regulars @ the Oaklands in its previous guise but I doubt we will return anytime soon.

We visited this place as we had heard that the food was excellent. And it most certainly didn't disappoint. It was just superb. The place was lovely too. Compliments to ross the chef who was on that day. Will definitely go back.

Love coming to this hotel as Thorpe St Andrew is such a pretty place and only a short taxi ride into Norwich city centre. The only criticisms I have for my recent stay is that the lodges are now rather shabby and the choice of wine wasn't great. I know these are hard times for the hospitality industry so don't want to be too hard. I'll definitely be back!

Excellent venue with indoor and outdoor seating -up among the tree tops. Good food, reasonable price, friendly and efficient staff, especially Sharron. Also has a farm shop with lovely bread and cheeses. A classy place.

Despite all the challenges of Covid, the staff have remained resolute in ensuring the Oakland's is a true gem to visit and stay. We have stayed in the past but the investment made recently has transformed the place. In the summer the terrace was like being transported to the Mediterranean. Here we are again on a damp October evening, in the fresh air on the terrace, basking in the warmth of the overhead heating, enjoying a fabulous delicacy from the restaurant. We honestly agreed, these were the best steaks we've ever tasted. No mean feat considering the steaks I've enjoyed around the globe in my time. The Oakland's has a truly unique vibe. An ‘X' factor perhaps that we've never experienced elsewhere. We will be visiting again very soon and recommend you do too! Special thanks to Jack, Seb, Adam, Stephen, Emma, and Lucy and all those we were too fuzzy to remember who made our stay so memorable.

Fresh and clean decor,Excellent food and service, friendly staff and reasonable prices, vegetarian choices available which were nourishing and very well presented, the best fries I've tasted for a long while

booked the oaklands for an bank Holiday weekend break . We stayed in a superior suite which was clean and spacious with a balcony. The food was excellent especially the breakfast. Staff are very helpful and friendly and do a fantastic job despite the restrictions due to distancing to make you feel welcome. Had a great time.

We stayed on Saturday night and was so impressed with everything. Firstly the staff were amazing - special mention to Malcolm who was so attentive to us day and night but also didn't stop - massive attention to detail. The food was all locally sourced and fabulous - all cooked to perfection. We went for an overnight stay and had breakfast also the next day which was also fantastic and good value. Would also recommend the expresso martinis !! Anyway we will be back - well done team Oakland's !

Thank you so much to Steven, the restaurant manager who went out of his way to give me the best birthday lunch....the fish platter was tremendous (apart from the prawns that were a bit tasteless I'm afraid) Delicious & highly recommended ❤️

The hotel was in and excellent location, the area is lovely and getting around from there was easy. Food and drink was superb and the staff were all very helpful. Highly recommend staying and we definitely will again.

excellent service from all staff including manager very clean and well spaced for covid 19 restrictions friendly atmosphere lovely food and good value very impressed will definitely return lovely evening thank you

We booked this hotel under the best western 3 nights for the price of two. It was our third choice in Norwich bit had a lot of upsides along with a few irritations. It's easy to find and has a big car park. There is construction going on, which has used a lot of spaces (not good as busy). Reception very efficient, room good value for money and clean. The restaurant has been set up outside and they have a great area. It's just stunning under lovely trees, easy app to order and heaters and cover for rain. They are doing work to expand are for later in year I side. The food was grills for fish and meat. Excellent quality , good value and to be repeated. I saw people ordering takeaway which is some recommendation. The cockatoos where good. They will do anything so ask. The breakfast was I treating. At weekends.it does not start to 9am which is too late for most. We were served early on out first day and had a great breakfast. On our second day parts of breakfast were missing and given p-g tips in a mug with string to take out bag. Not good and no juice. Third day, better. But tea still lousy. They are busy so can expect variations. Food and ambience good. On penultimate day our room was not cleaned. I think it's a case of covid overload. The housekeeper dealt with well. The new bloefield farm shop is great. It looks like there are plans to really bring this place up. I hope so as I would come again. Good to have merchants of spice nearbye and rushcutters. So nice place for a few days. Just less than 30 pleasent mins walking to town and a few mins by taxi.

Tucked away behind a road. Entrance up a hill awkward parking area. Check in was ok pleasant receptionist.We did consider eating there however we had reservations else where. The walk up to the room was creaky and there was evidence of damp cracks and a smell of greasy cooking. The Room was ok however the bed was two singles put together so low you were almost on the floor and a bit short . Cleaning of the room appeared basic.given the current pandemic The velux window in the bathroom was dirty as was the room window. Plus a few dirty corners. However the bedding and towels were ok the teas and coffees were generous.TV ok good fan A reasonable night sleep but unexplained bangs which woke us on a few occasions . We stayed for breakfast where the bar was ok but there appeared to be a dirty marquee & some loose decking and the table cloths were stained (possibly from the night before). Breakfast was tepid and a bit overpriced coffee and tea was ok . Best to be avoided. For some reason they played jazz? As we said its the sort of music off licences play to stop kids congregating outside & it was a bit loud & annoying. I am not sure what the Management dynamic is but the staff did not appear motivated and appeared not to care I am sure if anyone complained would receive a millennial strop or a toddler tantrum or just outright hostility, One thing I have found over the years in hotels if it looks shabby you will be treated the same. One to avoid .

Recently renovated and tastefully improved and is a perfect location for a summer evening dining however it wasnt quite what we hoped for. In fairness they were extremely busy with a high uptake from the eat out to help out scheme proving very popular but we waited a very long time for our orders to come. It wouldn't stop us going again as a visit there last week was very enjoyable although this was at a quieter time. Food was good when it arrived although the sharing seafood platter had run out which was what we had planned to order. My comments to the company are listen to the customers when things aren't going according to plan. Most people accept when situations are abnormal but they want an apology and not excuses when service isn't what is expected.

We visited the newly refurbished restaurant today for breakfast, our first observation was that the staff were not wearing face coverings, we didn't feel that the staff were maintaining social distancing and possibly not sanitising the tables and chairs sufficiently. My pancakes were burnt, when I mentioned this, admittedly when paying, it wasn't treated as if it was a problem. The discount wasn't applied on payment I had to request a refund, so all in all I would Not recommend this eatery.

Stayed at this hotel for two nights. Lovely area, clean room, jet bath and shower. The bed was very comfy. However, there was no air conditioning and as the weather was over 30 degrees we had to have the windows open, where we heard the sounds of the bar below until after midnight both nights. Just be aware that it may not be a quiet break if you stay at the weekend !

This is a great hotel the and the staff are fantastic and so friendly. Sunday lunch is just the best and cannot recommend this enough. The new decking area is so nice for a drink with friends or family.

I booked a room to visit relatives who live nearby. This was a week or so after restrictions on staying overnight in England were eased. The hotel was spotlessly clean, staff were lovely and it was nice to hear people out on the terrace. All social distancing rules were in place and followed. Would definitely stay again. Be aware that there is no lift and, due to the age of the hotel, there are some creaky floorboards. It didn't bother me but might be an issue for some people.

Has to be one of the best places for food during this pandemic! On arrival we were greeted at the front door with a smile and a warm welcome, information on where to go. When Entering the Garden space it's full of natural light, fresh breeze and inviting background music. The atmosphere was calming and relaxing! We didn't go for food but was so tempted watching the chef “Dave” behind the kitchen preparing the food we couldn't help ourselves! We ordered the chicken salad and burger to share, it came out as decent portion sizes (which I love). The presentation was out of this world! The attention to detail takes it far further then a 5 star rating! We couldn't get enough so we ordered dessert! Oops sticky toffee pudding, with fluffy homemade toffee sauce and a scoop of ice cream we were in heaven!! All the staff were inviting, considerate of the boundaries regarding COVID, yet still delivered the same attention to customer service! From observing the restaurant everyone was greeted by all staff and welcomed with hellos and smiles. Had such a fantastic evening and would love to thank everyone there! I would recommend the Oakland to everyone who enjoys quality food and perfect atmosphere. Will definitely be back for “Dave” food!! Many thanks Georgia!

Stayed at Oaklands for a 14-day quarantine prior to joining an offshore vessel. Elly and her staff made us very welcome and did their utmost to accommodate us during our stay. The spacious lodges (Calthorpe & Barten) and garden, as well as the excellent evening meals and great selection of wines were particular highlights. Obviously our stay cannot be compared to one under pre-Covid days but any limitations were more than compensated for by the friendliness and attentiveness of all the staff. Many thanks Elly for your personal touch. I would highly recommend staying at the Oaklands during the current Covid period should quarantining be a required element of your job. Would like to thank all the staff and wish Elly & Co the very best of luck in the future. Hope to pass by again...Robert.

During lockdown i have been working more shifts at the Hosptial and I have stayed at the hotel for a few nights as i am traveling 40 minuets everyday to work. The staff have all been very friendly,helpful and professional at this awful time following all of the procedure that are in place. The room i have stayed in were clean and comfortable too. I have also had evening meals at the hotel which were delicious. I will definitely be returning with my husband when it is allowed and safe to do so.

Although I didn't stay at your residence, I still wanted to thank and give recognition to all the kind people at the Oaklands during this though time. I can not thank them enough for the many splendid home made meals the darlings have been delivering to my door. I don't know what I would of done without them, thier kindness and generosity. It's overwhelming. Best Regards Grace

Beautiful setting across the road from the River Yare and a very short walk to riverside pubs and Thorpe Marshes. Very kind helpful staff. Double room lovely and clean, very comfortable and bathroom spotless. Well done for supporting key workers - it is so greatly appreciated - I will definitely return in better times!

During the lockdown I've been able to continue working as an A&E and air ambulance doctor only due to the hospitality of the Oaklands Hotel. The staff could not have been kinder and more supportive going out of their way to ensure I've been able to rest between busy and chaotic shifts at the hospital. My room was spacious and immaculate with a very comfortable bed and a lovely bathroom. The generosity of members of the public buying meal vouchers for front line staff has meant this is another thing I've not had to worry about. The restaurant staff and the choice of menu was exceptional and the food absolutely amazing. By staying open and caring so well for front line staff has in a small way produced a little positivity out of such a devastating situation us to continue to do our jobs and save lives.

I am a nurse and normally stay with my parents when I'm on shift. Unfortunately I am unable to do this now during this incredibly difficult time. Someone told me the Oakland's Hotel were offing NHS staff accommodation. I messaged asking if this was possible and they booked me in straight away. I am incredibly grateful for this as I was going to have to endure a long journey home after tiring stressful shifts. I have a cosy room and the place is lovely/clean and the staff can't do enough. Thank you so much again from a very grateful nurse. Definitely recommend to everyone :)

During lockdown myself and 10 colleagues had our accommodation closed down on a days notice. As everything was shutting this hotel opened its doors to not just ourselves but also NHS staff. They also delivered food to the elderly in the local community. I take my hat off to the owner and staff, who during time of national crises have done an amazing thing. On top of this, the hotel is really nice. Anyone looking to book a room in Norwich or a function should 100% use this location. Thank you so much, if everyone had your mindset the world would be a much nicer place!

This hotel has Gorgeous rooms comfortable beds lovely bathrooms new condition and very clean. Polite experienced and friendly helpful staff. Not special looking on the outside but what does that matter.

Everytime we go it just gets better and better. The staff are just lovely, it's like going and staying with old friends. Never a dull moment. The food is to die for, and if you have read reviews saying different then all I can say is they must have had their taste buds removed! The rooms are just right for a night away from it all and the beds are so comfy to fall into after a few drinks at the bar. Talking of which, Cheers has got nothing on the Oaks bar! "Where everybody knows your name, And they're always glad you came." Best bar in the city for drink and banter.

Had a fantastic stay this weekend. Great value for money, the staff were friendly and helpful and the food was exceptional! We are due to get married here in August- I am really pleased with everything!

Small bed but a large room with comfortable seating area and tv. Coffee making facilities in room also. The bar and restaurant are nice and the staff were friendly. Could do with a bit of work around the place but it's not too bad and doesn't spoil your stay just yet.

Stayed in one of the lodges last weekend, very spacious and lovely decor. Had evening meal in michaels restaurant and the food was amazing!! Staff at all times were very friendly and welcoming. Breakfast was a bit confusing as they have changed the layout and preferred the old buffet style but again food was very good although portion size was small. Definitely look forward to going again

I would like to sing the praises on the new restaurant at the Oaklands Hotel. Firstly the staff walk around with a spring in their step and know what they are talking about and are polite. The new menu and food are now much better and very well presented and when served it is done politely not slapped down on the table like it used to be. Overall much better. If i have one gripe i could not lock onto the hotel server

I arrived at about 7:30pm, and there was already another guest waiting to check in. He went off to find someone to check us in. Once checked in and sorted out, I ordered room service at 8:30pm. It was 9:30pm before I realised the time and my room service never arrived. There was no call as to why, it just never arrived. When I woke up in the morning, I got up to shower and my shower wouldn't run hot water. Only freezing cold. The positives were that the bed was really comfortable, the room was nice and the bathroom was well decorated too. Check out was swift but I wasn't asked if my stay was ok or if I had any problems. I got a copy of my invoice and left.

Very friendly staff that make you feel welcome as soon as you arrive. Room was nicely decorated and had the essentials that you would expect. We had booked a table in the restaurant and was extremely pleased with the service that we received from the staff. The food we had ordered was absolutely tasty mouth watering and fabulous and cooked to perfection. Breakfast the next morning was a help yourself to cereal toast coffee fruit and full English you ordered and was brought out to you which was very nice and tasty. All in all my partner and I enjoyed our stay at the Oaklands hotel and would recommend this hotel the only complaint we have is that it is not clearly signposted on the main road and you could easily drive past it and the internet keeps dropping out. Apart from them two issues a good all round service accommodation and food and friendly staff

Stayed her last night room was lovely and spacious and comfortable beds, room was quiet. Had a meal and it was perfect good portions with excellent service will return. Prices are very reasonable for a hotel.

I came with my boyfriend for an overnight stay. We booked a standard room and i was very impressed with the decor. The amenities were as you would expect from a hotel of this calibre. I was very impressed with the menu choices at the steak restaurant on site. I cannot recommend enough the pork belly and chicken popcorn. After our meal The waiter came over and cleared away in a timely manner. The entire stay was exceptional. I look forward to returning.

If it wasn't for good company of friends I would have got a taxi home The venue was in a room upstairs with. Dark dingy entrance, no signs of welcome from staff We firstly asked for a bottle of standard Malbec and was told they only had 1 bottle!!! Surely they have buyers to ensure that the bar is well stocked The food was mediocre with a very slow wait between courses definitely not worth the money we paid for the evening The DJ/singer had problems and was unable to sing so the whole evening was flat We have complained as many other people have but we have heard nothing!! This is such a shame as the hotel could be good with the right management Hence 1 star

Second visit in 4 years first was my daughters wedding lovely stay recently stayed over night with family stayed in room38 smelt mouldy damp patch on ceiling and mould on bathroom tiles and grout. Breakfast next day full English was cold all 8 of us had cold food. Would think twice before returning.

Our room (a twin as no doubles were available) felt like it was last decorated in the 1950's. It felt old and dirty and it smelt odd. The corridors leading to it felt grubby. The pictures shown on this site suggest the place is really modern and fresh. NOT SO! We had an evening meal in Michael's restaurant for 6 people. The whole meal was poor. In short anything with meat in it had been badly overcooked so that it was either burnt, or totally dried out, tough and tasteless. Really disappointing. The staff were made aware and reacted well - but when the food on the menu is priced quite high, you expect a quality experience. The restaurant was SO noisy that we could hardly hear the other people on our table speak. The bar area is awful. The layout looks old and tired and the 'booths' for seating are tiny with zero leg room if there are more than 2 or 3 of you. Drink prices are way too high given there is no feeling of luxury or experience in the bar. A wedding was taking place at the venue and when we arrived guests were outside on the decking at the back of the bar. This area was absolutely disgusting. The pagoda and marquee tent were both yellowy green and covered in moss and algae. Other white objects that should help make wedding photo's look good were similarly filthy and green. The decking itself looked horrible. If it were my wedding I'd be asking for a serious refund!! How can the hotel even think that area was acceptable for someone's big day?! All in all a VERY DISAPPOINTING stay. The front of house staff were all helpful and friendly but they are let down by a really tired grubby looking/feeling building and an atrocious quality kitchen. We have another booking there in March and I think we'll be finding somewhere else to eat / drink!

Cant fault the room very clean and bathroom lovely The downside was the even meal in Micheals restraunt very over priced waiting time between starter and main course was over an hour and when it arrived for example the half roasted flamed chicken came with just the chicken chips or potatoes were extra costs any vegs were again extra which then made that meal over £20 just for a chicken dish and the chicken was very dry My wife had the chicken & bacon salad there was no blue cheese dressing as stated she had an extra side dish garlic mushrooms that the dish was so hot when it came they put it ontop of the salad which ment removing the pot from the salad which was so hot burnt her fingers and chicken which were big strips were so hard cut the inside of her mouth at this point gave up on the meal The matredee was very good did not charge us for my wifes meal It's sad to say but because of the meal we would not stay at this hotel because that's the only option of food.

We booked this as a black friday deal (we had done this the previous year too ), our stay was amazing .We were taking elderly parents as their christmas present and i have to say from start to finish service was incredible. I had a few query's and emailed the hotel , Vicky was very quick to respond and so helpful , she made such a difference to our stay . We arrived for afternoon tea and were served by a lovely man who was there throughout the stay ,evening meal and breakfast too . The food and service were the best we have had in a hotel in this country in a long time , just the little personal touches made our stay so enjoyable , we had a lovely room and our parents had a lodge with a wet room this was worth the upgrade for them as all on ground level no stairs to encounter . We would highly recommend this hotel to anyone wanting a lovely chilled break in nice surroundings . Thank you all at the oaklands, we have booked to go back in April again

We bought this deal as we have stayed in the lodges before and had a great time. We arrived early and parked our car in the car park for free and caught the bus into Norwich. The reception staff are very friendly and helpful and we checked in later swiftly. We were on the first floor in a very spacious and clean room with an excellent en-suite. As it was winter there were no weddings but I can imagine the room we were in could be noisy as it faced the marquee but no issues for us. Our deal included £40 towards Michaels and the meal was superb but I will review that separately. Breakfast was good freshly cooked with plenty of choice. This was a great deal and yes we will be back.

The location is good for ease on outskirts of Norwich and there is parking onsite which is good (although a little tight if lots of people staying/function on). My room was very old fashioned and bathroom was very tired but it was clean and tidy. There was a function on and this spilled in to the garden area at the back which my room overlooked so I did find it quite noisy and difficult to get to sleep but it did finish before midnight and I'm sure this is not the case all the time. Restaurant is modern and looks good, had a nice meal and had A very attentive waiter who I think described himself as the restaurant manager, he was very good. The restaurant experience was probably the best part of the hotel. Breakfast was also good with friendly morning staff. Would stay at this hotel again if needed to stay in the area

Amazing Black Friday offer of dinner bed & breakfast for £68 with £40 food allowance. First class service of hotel and restaurant even though it was an offer! Hotel not much to look at but looks can be deceiving. Will definitely be back!

Christmas and Twimax break Good location – there are buses from bottom of the drive that take you into Norwich City Centre. Stayed in one of the suites the interior of which badly needed a lick of paint and the curtains could certainly do with a wash also the furniture was marked in places. The bed pillows badly need replacing and were well past their best. There should have been a safe in the room, this we mentioned to two different staff members but never received it. The food served over Christmas Day and Boxing Day was superb. We dined in their new restaurant called Michael's Grill and Steakhouse which was really good but once you have eaten there a couple of times it would have been good to have a more extensive menu with more choices and fresh vegetables. Breakfast was served in the bar area and we nearly always had to ask for bread, plates or cutlery which was a bit off putting. Cooked breakfasts were taken to order and these were always good. The outside of the lodges are all badly in need of a lick of paint or varnish. All of the staff we encountered were very friendly, polite and helpful.

We arrived at hotel for the new years eve function and we were not disappointed. Very professional and friendly staff. The hotel room was very spacious and comfortable, it was clean and facilities were good. The New years eve party in Michael #s bar was a great party atmosphere and exceptional value for the price. We will definitely be back next year

This was our second year running staying here at this time of year using the excellent value black Friday deal Everything was more than our expectations, the dinner was excellent and cooked right in front of us. The room was spacious and the bed comfortable. All this in a lovely part of the country. We hope to be back again next year to make it three years running.

Slightly disappointing, not easy to find your luxury suite on the premises due to no visible signs and no lighting and pathway lights not turned on. Luxury suite very nice, comfortable sofa in own lounge and a comfortable bed. Nice en suite bathroom with bath and separate shower. No lounge in the main hotel. Breakfast only served in the bar area which had a small breakfast bar and small low tables with semi circular bench seating not suitable to have a Full English Breakfast at, especially if you're 6 feet plus. Staff good to excellent and friendly. Food good other than a full English Breakfast wasn't available due to shortages of supplies of some ingredients. Ample on site parking.

We attended the Oakland's on a works Christmas night out. It cost us £40 each for three course dinner. The food was appalling. Starter was prawn cocktail, with minimal presentation effort and tasteless. If you look at the main Turkey course, you can see pre cooked, pre portioned Turkey, frozen mixed veg, rock hard roast potatoes and a marble sized dried stuffing. The dessert was a flavourless cheesecake. The staff did try their best and the DJ tried his best. We did email the hotel and I have waited for a reply before posting a review. It's been two weeks and still no reply. We all work hard and when we pay good money for a night out, and if it's very poor which it was, then an effort should be made to correct it.

Good quality hotel, on the outskirts of Norwich. Staff really nice and go out of their way to help. Food good and a good selection of drinks at the bar. The rooms are clean, warm and comfortable. Cant ask for anything else.

Never staying here again. I know its Christmas party season - but it's so loud all night and has been for the last 2 nights... some of us would love to know when it will be over... midnight maybe?! for your own sanity stay somewhere else!

Spent a night here whilst Christmas shopping in the city, The room was great, with the exception of a dirty shelf in the bathroom. The restaurant food was good for a steak house (we're vegetarians and it was in the price of the deal). Sadly there was a function on that night and we had to endure loud music all night which disturbed our sleep. I made a passing comment to the front desk clerk on check out and she was so nonchalant to the point of being dismissive.

I recently visited The Oaklands new restaurant Michael's 1954 with friends, They have put so much effort into making the restaurant a real nice place to visit. The decor is really great giving the restaurant a real cosy feel to it. I love the fact you can see the chefs at work. I ordered the camembert for starters that was just the perfect size. My husband had the popcorn chicken and it was fab. The steak I had was cooked to perfection and we all enjoyed our food. The burger my husband had looked really good and he was very happy. The Staff were really attentive making sure we were enjoying our food and asking if we wanted any more drinks. All in all a fab night. There is so much that has gone into getting it just perfect and what a lovely story behind the name. We will most defenatly return.

We stayed at The Oakland's Hotel last weekend and we ate at Michaels Steak and Grill. The food was superb. The staff and service were excellent. We loved the decor and atmosphere. Totally recommend this eatery

Second time we have stayed here and just as good as last time. Service at the front desk was great, the lady was really friendly and making conversation and checked us in with ease. Room was tidy and comfortable to stay in. Definitely recommend to friends and will stay here again

Having just opened up, we thought it would be great to give it a try. There were 5 of us on a very busy Friday night. Servers could not have been nicer and more accommodating. A very nice venue with kitchen on show. 1 person ordered a sirloin steak with tomato and Mac and cheese, and really enjoyed all of it excepther tomato that she felt was too soggy. Another ordered tomohawk pork and loved every bite! A lady ordered the fillet steak medium rare, and was served well done, but the server was very attentive and immediately had the chef do a fresh one for her that she was very pleased with. The gentleman next to me ordered the London steak, which sadly turned out to be quite gristly, and the waiter took his meal off the bill apologizing. Sadly my chicken was overdone and quite dry, which the server took off the bill as well! We were offered complimentary drinks as well, but with driving and time constraints, we politely declined. It's refreshing to have a restaurant take so much pride in their fare that they stand behind the quality and obviously are working hard to sort out the teething problems of just opening. We all decided to come back again!

Overnight stay with 50 people visiting Thursford. No personal welcome despite this being a BW Coach Friendly hotel. Reception gave out key cards with a kert "1st floor". No explanation of the fact there was a note inside requesting meal choices. Rooms well furnished however room was cold,no heating in our room until 9am next day. Meal choice and variety good, however they ran out of "pork" so some had to change choice. Seemed very haphazard with no real warmth from the servers. bar was supposed to be open after we returned at 1115pm however the night man stated it was closed so most went to their rooms. One or two did get a drink eventually. Buffet breakfast was again impersonal, had to ask for refill of milk, coffee machine, and plates. Sorry this establishment falls short of service.

We stayed here to celebrate our friends wedding and can't fault 1 thing. The hotel, the food, the rooms were perfect Staff made sure the wedding flowed smoothly. The ceremony, the wedding meal, the disco and buffet were amazing. Staff could not do enough for the wedding couple. Breakfast was hot and tasty and both check in/out were quick and efficient.

Very disappointed - receptionist on arrival was so abrupt and spoke so fast and couldnt process the check in quicker than humanly possible. It was like the Lidly shopping conveyor belt experience. I had to ask her several time to repeat what she said. I asked what was on for the weekend e.g. any music etc and was told there were 2 wedding planned for the weekend but the music would stop at midnight - which to be fair it didl The bath took forever to fill up trickling through the taps, there is a serious plumbing issue with this building. The toilet had to be flushed several times. The bed was not comfortable at all and to be honest was probably one of the worst nights sleep I have had in a hotel. I drifted in and out of sleep from 2.00 until got woken up at 6.00 with what I assume was the morning cleaners tidying up from the night before. Went to breakfast about 08.00 as wide awake which was a poor affair - had to wait forever for the girl to come and get my order not her fault she was clearly on her own doing her best to do the breakfast reception, take orders, clean tables, replenish stock. This is not the normal standard of a Best Western and I only chose this hotel in preference to others in Norwich due to it being a Best Western - perhaps the management team of Best Western need to assess what is going on with their Thorpe St Andrew venue. I can only assume from talking to locals in the pub opposite that this is more of a wedding venue and is what makes it tick over as opposed to attracting other business. Maybe if you are attending a wedding there the rooms will suit but not for the normal traveller.

I love Norwich and looked forward to staying there. Still love Norwich but certainly NOT the Oaklands hotel. This was without a doubt, the most disappointing stay I have ever experienced in any Best Western. Hard to believe they have the audacity to label it "PLUS". Probably a large part of the problems experienced were due to the fact they had booked four wedding receptions that evening. Took ten minutes before anyone czme ro check us in, then argued that our reservation was wrong and charged us additional funds for breakfast. The bedroom was filthy, looked like it had not been cleaned in weeks. The window fell off its hinges when we tried to open it. Service was lousy the two days we stayed there. Food in the dining room was disgusting, I ordered from the "Carvery"; all five meat options must have been under the heat lamps for hours and were totally dehydrated. My wife ordered pasta and decided on a hamburger, an our later, we gave up waiting and went to a pub. Next morning, the dining room at breakfast was totally disorganized with just one waitperson. The floor had not been cleaned after the "festivities" from the night before, there were no coffee cups or cutlery out and the coffee was cold. Best Western needs to close the place down, fire the manager and thoroughly clean the place from tp to bottom. Never again. If they respond to this review, they will probably blame our experience to upgrading construction, BS

We had a lovely two nights in a suite they do vary a lot in comfort. The staff were excellent. Unfortunately we were served with raw porridge , and also uncooked dumplings with our excellent beef stew.

We used a conference room for a staff training day, and we could not recommend it enough. Great food, and a lot of selection - also catered for dietary needs (GF). Staff were extremely friendly, and were happy to help where they could. Room was spacious, and looked professional and nicely laid out. Thank you all.

Stayed here for 1 night whilst on business. Quick check in and friendly staff,requested a high floor and that's what I got. Bedroom was ok with a huge TV and internet in the room was good. Typical bar/restaurant menu which was ok, only the bar open due to restaurant revamp. Plenty of car parking. Only slight downside was the creaky floorboards.

We are staying in a lovely room, however no hot water! We we're getting ready for a night out and ran a bath, it was cold! The receptionist was less than helpful when I reported the issue. I was told that they were not plumbers and could only move us to a different room. We had very little time left to get ready, so we declined. The receptionist commented that I was rude when I asked her how she would feel if it had happened to her. This stay has not met our expectations at all. Very disappointing that their attitude as we we were told they could only move us to another room by way of compensation!

Stayed at the Best Western Oakland's and if that is the best I would hate to see the others. No internet, no tv in the bedroom, trouser press hanging of the wall, no phone reception. Hotel was a building site. Not impressed and certainly won't be staying again

Unfortunately the restaurant was being refurbished but deliveroo was available! We were a little disappointed to stay in an executive suite and to not have robes, slippers or more importantly conditioner for hair. I'm sure before it was best western on previous stays it had all of our missing requirements. Other than that it was a good night and would recommend it

We booked the marquee suite for a party to celebrate our wedding, and Shelby and her team did us proud. From the way the tables and chairs were set up, to the excellent food, to the lovely DJ and all the staff for whom nothing was too much trouble, we felt really well looked after and were able to get on with celebrating our wedding with family and friends. Many people who came have commented on what a good venue it was, and we would certainly recommend the Oaklands to anyone who is thinking of a similar event.

Let's start with the wedding co-ordinators: This venue seems to not be able to retain their staff, we saw someone different nearly every time we met with them. Although they were friendly enough, the communication via email was poor, with me having to chase for copies of documents which I was told would be sent to me. They'd blatantly lost an updated version of our “details for the day”, trying to palm us off with different excuses which made it worse, just admit it and apologise then we can move on from this. We were meant to have a “free” bottle of Prosecco on our last meeting, this didn't happen and was told it'd be in our room on the night of the wedding, it wasn't... Our toastmaster: We couldn't have asked for a better toastmaster, Malcolm was amazing, keeping us informed of what was happening in advance so we could delay anything if needed and he couldn't do enough for us. Next, the wedding breakfast and room: The layout was described in our document with the venue however chair bows were not correct and candles not lit. The centrepieces were set up as expected (we had to provide a picture). The wedding breakfast did not meet our expectations, the starters were very poor, for the main the potatoes were rock solid and some guests meat was very chewy and the desserts were also not really as described as in the menu. I've been to weddings here before and the food had been much better at those. Children were served last (after our 65 adult guests) which was ridiculous. We had to ask for our remaining wine, instead of it being brought out. The toasting wine was poured 45 minutes before the toasts started, way too early and this confused guests as they weren't sure what it was for at the time. The serving staff were miserable and rather rude, seemed like they were all on a training day with no experience of serving. The evening: We chose to have a BBQ and this was lovely, with finally some decent food. Only downside was there was no cutlery out, the groom being told to get his own from the restaurant. On a side note if you chose this venue, do not use their recommended DJ (D&H entertainment). The venue itself: It was chaotic, we knew they'd be another wedding on which was fine, but 2 hen dos too?! It seems they just want to make as much money as possible rather than thinking of the quality they give to their customers! The toastmaster announced that we would be having breakfast at 9am the next day and for anyone wishing to join us to leave their details at reception so a large table could be arranged for us, guests did this, however in the morning the breakfast host had no idea what we were talking about and asked me how many we were expecting... because me, the bride, was really expected to ask everyone on my wedding day if they were coming? I think not! Overall: We made the best of our day with our family and friends, we didn't let the negatives get to us and spoil our day, as there's nothing you can do about so you just get on with it and enjoy the company of your guests and celebrating marrying the one you love. However, unfortunately I would not recommend this venue to others as there wasn't enough care and attention put into our wedding, maybe there would've been if they didn't allow so many events to happen in one day!

Booked via Booking.com ... room they gave me (at the bottom of the road) was really spacious but had a strong cigarette smell ...... went back to reception and nothing was to much trouble and quickly swapped me to another room .... and a complimentary upgrade to a suite ..... It's great location and large car park .......

Stay here for 1 night in the fritton luxury apartment for our 2 year anniversary, lots of parking available and speedy check in, the food is also good but what let this stay down was the uncomfortable bed and poor wifi especially as i paid for the best room

I had hoped that Best Western Plus would be a higher standard than Best Western but it certainly wasn't in this case. There is no lift which caused me a problem as I walk with a stick at the moment - but at least it reminded me to always check in future! No ground floor room was available unless we were prepared to pay a lot extra, which seemed pointless as we were only there to sleep one night en route elsewhere. The room we were allocated was on the first floor, up two flights of stairs, it was small and dark, with an excruciatingly small double bed so neither of us could so much as turn over without waking the other. The floor boards creaked every time someone walked along the corridor, and then the fire-door right outside our room banged shut. To add to our woes there was a kerfuffle in the room opposite with someone seemingly being thrown out about 11.30pm - and then there was the noise from the kitchen's extractor fans belting out about 20ft from our bedroom window. So not much sleep that night. The only redeeming feature was that the restaurant served a slightly above average carvery on Sunday evening. But this was not sufficient to persuade me to ever stay there again.

Have stayed at the Oaklands many times over past 20+ years for various family get-togethers (birthdays, weddings etc.); staff have always been helpful and accommodating; and never had any real problems as such!

Had a 2 night stay at the weekend for my sisters wedding and had to leave a review to celebrate the fabulous staff at the Oakland's. Everyone we came into contact with was more than accommodating (despite at times seeming a little unstaffed and overstretched) and I really hope the management team appreciate what an amazing staffing team they have. Special mention to Macie, who was there to greet us with a smile on our arrival and assist in every aspect of setting up for the big day. She assured us every thing would be taken care of and indeed it was. But the biggest and most heartfelt thank you has to go to Phil (the night porter) who really could not do enough to help us late into the night. What a lovely, lovely man he is. Thanks again to all the team. We couldn't have asked for a better day.

Arrived to full car park as, subsequently informed, 2 wedding receptions in progress. Advised music on till midnight. Room 1. Low and very soft double bed made up by pushing two single beds together thereby covering switches for bedside lights. Window broken and curtains not wide enough for window. Shower hot but lacking pressure. TV covered half of mirror above dressing table. Music not too bad but more noise after midnight as staff cleared tables and chairs. Despite being on top floor no view of valley due to height of trees. Complained following morning. Eventually shown 3 alternatives and chose one. Room 2. Better height although still soft. Windows opened, lovely curtains, lots of space around bed and between bed and wardrobe/dressing table. Hot and good powered shower. Both rooms were same price! Did not eat anything here. No lift. This is not a BW+. We booked this based on experiencing the Lancashire Manor near Wigan which is clearly a BW++++. Cannot now trust BW brand.

We attended a family wedding which was at the Oakland's for the entire day. The wedding ceremony was ok, and the toastmaster done a fine job of announcing throughout the day. However, once we sat for the wedding breakfast it became apparent that they simply can not cope with catering for a wedding party of people. The starters began to be served, going in table order, which is normal for a wedding, however those ordered food for their children from the child's menu came out last, after almost everyone had received their starters. Anyone with young children, ours being 3 and 1, knows how difficult it can be to keep them entertained on a long day like this, but for them to see the rest of the table pretty much finish their food before they even receive their (extremely complicated) garlic bread meant frustration for them and for us. Most establishments try to serve the children first (at least on the table) knowing that they both need occupying and chances are they're going to take longer to eat anyway! Unfortunately this didn't improve with the second or third course. I wish I could compliment the food itself, but actually it was some of the worst food I've had out, ever. The starter and dessert were ok, but the main was almost inedible, with cold rock hard roast potatoes, cold veggies, and really fatty chewy duck, which wouldn't have been so bad if they had rendered the fat properly but it didn't even look like it had seen any heat. In addition the toast drink was poured during the main course, approximately 40 minutes before the speeches began. Everyone on the table was confused whether the drink was for toasting or drinking now. We also asked for a non alcoholic toast drink for my wife, to which the server said she would sort out but it never came. Regretfully we had prebooked a room for the four of us. The room was comfortable, but very dated, and the bathroom definitely needs some cosmetic attention. The shower was pretty awful, which is just a shower head running off a bath mixer tap, which couldn't hold a steady temperature. However the worst part was that we noted on our booking that we required a cot for the 1 year old and bed guards for the 3 year old. Cot was provided, well done Best Western Oakland's, 50% of the request done! However no bed guards. I queried this at reception, where I was told my booking only said a cot. When I informed them I have an email showing what I asked for she told me that actually they don't do bed guards, and how she thinks they should, etc, etc, trying to show she was on my side of things. However, this doesn't fix the fact we had no bed guards for the pretty high beds, and actually if they had just emailed me when I booked to say they couldn't provide them I would have brought my own with me. The receptionist simply blamed it on the hotel chain, Best Western, website. In my opinion, regardless of fault it just poor communication. Moving onto breakfast the following morning... during the wedding breakfast the toastmaster asked us to leave our names and number of guests with reception if we wanted to have breakfast with the happy couple at 9am so they would arrange a load of tables together. Great we thought, 9am we all turn up, with the breakfast host saying he doesn't know what we're talking about and they wouldn't ever do that at 9am anyway because it's too busy. Absolutely shocking, just another example of the lack of communication in the hotel. Needless to say we won't be recommending this as a wedding venue, or even to dine or stay. If, unfortunately, one of your family invites you to a wedding here, I suggest you book into the premier inn just a few miles down the road. A lot the guests stayed there and didn't have a bad word to say, and it was half the price! If I could give a rating of 0 I would.

Table booked for 7 pm 5 people. 4 different meals ordered at around 7:15. My mixed grill was nice, but a lot of the "chunky" chips were tiny crispy scraps. The steak and ale "pie" was a stew or casserole in a metal dish with a circular pastry top that hadn't been cooked along with meat, leaving a large piece of dry pastry. Fish and chips was a big portion with plenty of tartar sauce and the half chicken was huge. Deserts were small but nice. All in all a reasonable experience, if a little expensive. If we hadn't had 2 for 1, I don't think we would eat there again. The toilets left a lot to be desired. The gents was out of order and we had to use the disabled one, which had a sign on the door saying mind the step!!! The ladies was reported as being smelly.

Very disappointed staff appeared under trained food was very poor vegetables under cooked steak tough staff did not know the menu or what was in our package took ages to be seated breakfast was poor you order the eggs and they take ages to come the bedroom was like an oven asked for a fan and was told they did not have one and the toilet did not flush someone else's feaces was in the toilet on arrival

Seriously! Make this guy a manager, not only was he polite and attentive he seemed to be the only one who could do anything behind the bar? Either. Ok enough about Jack, the front reception seemed flustered perhaps it was the two weddings and a 25th birthday party going on at the same time!! A lot of people complaining that their room keys weren't working, one complaining that they had checked in an hour before and their room was not ready, but got to say the waiting staff were amazing and the food we had (afternoon tea) was lovely

Hotel needs a revamp and rooms could be cleaner. We had a "suite", which was not much more than a large chalet! needs redecorating.Outside swimming pool (not used for 10 years)is an eyesore in the centre of the suites. Not good value for money.

Copy of our recent email we sent to Hollie and the team at The Oaklands Back from honeymoon now and beginning to get back to normal. We wanted to let all the emotions of the day pass by before we contacted you. Just to say the biggest thank you for everything you did on our wedding day. Everything was just perfect.  Food, service, staff, accommodation,  ambiance,  atmosphere - everything.  Just perfect. Every guest commented on what a wonderful venue! Everyone was happy. Not a single moan or complaint. We know from our past how much hard work goes into making an event like this happy so smoothly.  Please pass our thanks to EVERYONE at The Oaklands - chefs, waiting staff,  cleaning staff,  bar staff,  your team,  reception staff and anyone we've missed out. And of course to YOU!  You made us feel so relaxed and so secure both leading up to and on the day. We wish you and your team all the best for the future and have already recommended you to others for their celebrations.

The hotel was generally Okay, the room was clean and tidy but the paintwork in the bathroom needed a decorating. I had to clean the showerhead so it would work. The card to open the room door constantly failed and needed to be reset. Breakfast was OK but you need to order the egg element seperately from the buffet so gave thinking both would be ready together and hot. Evening meals are best sought away from the hotel. There is an excellent Indian a few minutes away called the "Merchants of Spice" well worth a visit. I would only use this hotel again to visit the Indian just up the road.

Enjoyed yet another stay at The Oaklands this time we had an offer for £99 that included accommodation 3 course meal complimentary bar 6-10pm not on top branded spirits or champagne. Do love their offers they do. Room was nicely decorated bed was so comfortable. Food was absolutely tasty and very filling. Staff as usual were vey polite and friendly and nothing was too much trouble for them. Loved the gin bar for which you have to purchase tokens for £5.95 for two not bad. Would recommend The Oaklands to friends and family and if you get the chance to stay in one of their lodges do so.

Well what can i say.. the food was lovely and staff were pleasant... the toast maker was fantastic.... that was the only good things... bathroom was dirty, jacuzzi bath that didn't work, internet that didn't work. No lights on the night of our wedding in our room... oh and they left my wedding cake in the heat after being instructed to keep it refrigerated so a ruined wedding cake we had.

Stayed two nights for our Nieces wedding, all the staff go out of there way to give the best service possible, room well appointed, spotlessly clean and extremely comfortable. Fantastic range of beers in the bar, but bear in mind you are paying Hotel prices, Breakfast good all be it the layout could be better as its a serve yourself and it follows no logical order, food for the wedding itself was fresh, hot and of a good quality, definitely feel we got excellent value for money and would happily stay here again, as a side note and to be fair it could have been down to our devices but the WiFi only worked on one side of the hotel, sadly our room was not on that side.

Dreadful Hotel. Noisy late night bar/disco venue for stag, hen and corporate parties. Made to pay on arrival, always a bad sign. Room was thumping with noise. Got moved to the "annexe" smelling of damp and febreeze. Truly awful place. AVOID

Whatever that title implies, it is not what we thought. Bottomless is just the alcohol and the food is definitely not Michelin starred. We had a choice of one first course,from four breakfast options and one desert from a choice of four.The scrambled eggs were over cooked and the mushrooms fatty. The pancake dessert was just shop bought pancakes with a little maple syrup and crushed meringue on top. Not worth £20 a head unless you overdo the alcohol. Coupled with a wedding next to us, behind a curtain but many waiters and waitresses kept rushing passed us. We definitely wouldn't go again though the staff were all helpful and polite.

I complained on check out about young lads partying until 6am as well as having to sleep with the windows shut on the hottest night of the year so i didnt breath in what they was smoking but the lady couldnt care less.

Enjoyed our two night stay to celebrate the wedding of our Son & daughter-in-law. Special mention to all the staff who went out of their way throughout to make it such a wonderful occasion. The weather was exceptionally hot during our stay & the staff were relentless in their pursuit to do everything they could to provide such a high level of service at all times. The wedding was described by so many staff & guests as the best wedding they had seen or attended.

It's a shame this hotel has been allowed to get shabby outside and in the grounds. The interior bar area and restaurant are fine. We had a great deal for prosecco afternoon tea, two course dinner and overnight stay. Fantastic value for money and both meals were beautifully presented and tasted fab. 2 for one cocktails before dinner went down well. We were staying out in the suites so very little disturbance from the wedding being celebrated at the hotel, though as usual the carpark was overflowing and difficult to navigate for any later arrivals. Microwave, kettle and sink provided but oddly no fridge? Rooms clean, lovely comfortable bed and spacious jacuzzi bathroom plus large shower.

I was impressed with the double room. It was spacious and felt cosy like a bedroom in a house than a hotel. The breakfast was ok, usual continental and cooked. If I was going to be picky on breakfast, the staff need to ensure everything is laid out ready for guests. There were no teaspoons or sugar. The meal I had in the restaurant was really nice. The staff were very efficient in seeing everything was to your satisfaction. I'd ask if there was going to be a wedding reception there. It was very noisy til early hours.

My husband and I went there for our small family wedding. We enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea for 4, followed by a family meal in the evening for 12. Staff were very polite, friendly and prompt with the service. Food was excellent, ( you must try the steak!!). The hotel and grounds are nice with a lovely marquee for the more larger celebrations. We spent the evening in one of the lodges (surprise from owner Marcus, thank you so much). What can we say, wow didn't even know that they were there, and well worth a stay in. Large sitting room with sofa, table and chairs and a tv. Kettle for hot drinks with drinks sachets provided. Good size bedroom and a lovely on suite with, shower and bath and lovely fluffy towels. We had a lovely stay which made our wedding day. Thank you to Marcus and his hard working staff.

Such beautiful lodges. Stayed here many times and will return many more. So nice to be in a pretty setting and feeling completely away from everyone. Great food in the restaurant, huge portions and such good value! 2 for one cocktail menu too!!

I was one of a substantial number of guests at a 50th wedding anniversary dinner & function on 7th July 2019. My wife, son & I were not responsible for payment of what I can only guess was a large restaurant & function bill & we would not like to embarrass our hosts by complaining at that time about what amounted to food preparation & cooking that fell far below what is expected of a hotel/restaurant that is a part of a large & respected group. I would add that the poor food provided was not restricted to my family. The other guests at our table of 12 guests almost without exception had similar experiences at that meal. I would say at this time, that our reception at the venue & the service of the shoddily prepared & cooked food was fine, however, the product was really poor. In particular, the main courses that for the most part on our table consisted of roast chicken or pork dishes were overcooked, dry & almost inedible (photo of one of the chicken dishes attached). Roast potatoes were served that were burned on the outside & had the consistency of wood blocks on the inside. One medium bowl of vegetables (from a freezer packet?) consisting of chopped carrots, sweetcorn & beans was provided for the table. There was little gravy/sauce provided to render these meals edible. I had the addition of a small Yorkshire pudding that was again textured like wood & was of course not eaten. Interestingly, I noticed that the hotel had run a carvery in that location earlier in the day, & I now wonder if our function was served the leftovers from this earlier session.

I keep meaning to leave a review and say thank you for a fantastic day for Lucas's afternoon tea party to celebrate him coming out of NICU & welcoming him to the world. To say you gave us a little discount and the whole thing was very reasonably priced you went above and beyond what I expected and added little touches of decor which I really didn't expect but am very grateful for. Everyone knew our names and made fuss of Lucas and was very welcoming. A massive thank you to the person who looked after us (I can't remember her name but she was studying events management!) she really looked after us and added some final touches and played music for us (which I didn't even think about!) I was honestly blown away because it wasn't much money and the room was decorated beautifully and the food was amazing with a great variety. The day was ridiculously hot so everyone made use of the terrace which was an added bonus. I don't know what I was expecting but I didn't expect it to be as well done up and executed as it was. Everyone had a fantastic time. Again, the staff were fantastic always checking on the tables making sure everyone had plenty of everything. They even helped me set up things I bought in like my favours etc. Stupidly I never took pictures of the room set up I know the lady studying events management took pictures if she can is she able to email me them? Thank you again, I'm sure we'll host special events with you again in the future. Much Love, Olletta, Chris & Baby Lucas xx

Stayed whilst on business in Norwich. Overall it's not a bad choice of venue to stay. Was a bit concerned after reading some of the reviews, I would imagine when there is a party it could impact on your stay as soon if the rooms over look the beer garden and entertainment area. Room quality was relay good , clean comfortable with nice bed , bathroom was good although the shower was not very powerful it was acceptable. Staff were very polite , I received a warm welcome in arrival. The location is very nice , I went for a long walk of the railway bridge along the river which was pleasant after a long days drive. Will use again when in the area !

Booked a weekend away with my husband at this hotel. We requested a quiet room and was sent an e-mail to confirm that our request had been accepted. When we arrived on Friday 28th June a wedding reception was in full flow which was fine. However, our room overlooked the car park and entrance to the hotel (room 9). How this could possibly be a quiet room is laughable. Wedding guests were drinking and smoking just underneath our room windows late into the night and due to the weather we could not shut the windows due to lack of air conditioning. The following night there was a fight in the car park which several other guests complained about as it woke half the hotel up. The following day at check out I was assured by the hotel staff that a manager would contact us either on the day of check out or the day after (30th June or 1st July). We both left e-mail addresses and phone numbers. No one has bothered to contact us regarding this matter - to apologise or even acknowledge that our weekend was ruined by noise. I found that customer service at this hotel was poor. The staff are barely out of school and the blame for anything is passed on to some other staff member who is conveniently not available to speak to. I would not stay at this hotel again or any other Best Western hotels if this is the level of customer service that they think is acceptable.

Popped in for a quick dinner with some riders we compete with and we have a great meal and the foods was excellent. There were lots of locals in the restaurant all having a great time which added to the atmosphere.

Decent enough although the room I stayed in, though advertised as a double, was only really a single. Fortunately I was a solo traveller for one night, so this was no big problem for me. Breakfast was acceptable but no great choice if you did not want a cooked option. Saturday night was also a wedding reception, so a late night before I could get to sleep.

We got married at the Oaklands hotel the staff were very good and looked after the guests was a pleasure the barman Malcolm was amazing shelby and Hollie were brilliant even picking the foliage out of the bottom of my dress haha

Attended the wedding of Mr & Mrs Hunt, staff were excellent, food great, service was great. The lady who was in charge of the event kept Bonnie (the bride) informed throughout the day, Bonnie was very impressed.

I booked a room for 3 nights through my companies booking agents, first impression were positive. There is a bar/restaurant and on days when the sun is out a nice decking area. The first problem i encountered though was when trying to connect to wifi in the room, i was on the secong floor and it would not connect at all, although you can get reception in the bar area. The mobile phone signal is also non existent. Which means you cant use data either, very frustrating when away for work. I did enquire at reception but was told the phone signal is always poor, which is fair enough, not much they can do about that. But when i mentioned the wifi issue i was told they were waiting for an engineer, and that they had to put up with it as well...to be honest if they had mentioned on check-in that they had an issue I wouldn't have left this review...so if you are thinking of using a laptop here you may want to re-think.

Was a little difficult to find once there because of inadequate signing which could have been better. The lane leading up to the Hotel was not very clean and tidy giving perhaps a bad impression of what the Hotel would have been like but at the front door, was nice and clean and the staff were very helpful and friendly. The rooms were excellent, clean and very well furnished. The bar staff, although pleasant, (were they casual due to the wedding function )seemed at times to be 'lost' when it came to serving, perhaps enhanced training would help. Other than those minor 'gripes' I would definitely use this Hotel again.

Perfect nights stay for a nice getaway. Although could have better quality mattresses very thin and could feel the springs a lot. But overall 100% would stay again already looking to rebook another night in a suit.

If you are looking for an uncomfortable, over priced sleep deprived hotel, this is the place for you. With massive flood light right outside the bedroom window you have the pleasure of 24hour day light and no sleep. The wifi is also an interesting challenge, very limited and intermittent connection. Occasionally there is a bit of 4G if you hang out of the window. This was probably a very cool.place back in the 1980's.

Lovely rooms was just watching tv about to take a shower to relax and someone had come in to my room downstairs had double booked the room so guest let them self's in to the room I was staying in after going downstairs I had been moved room to a small room witch you can hardly move in didn't even get an apology for the mix up

I am writing this email as myself and my now wife Tamsin got married on the 12/05 and the venue was catered for by yourselves. I would like to thank you for making our day special and helping us plan for the best day of our lives. We cannot believe how wonderful it was and I am very greatful to yourselves and the wedding host Hollie for this. Hollie was fantastic and helped us with the day but left us to it when possible. Again a big thank you to everyone involved in making this the best day of my life. Kind Regards Mr Wilding 

I was the best man for my fathers wedding, that was held at the Oakland's, from the first contact with Shelby the wedding planner I knew that we were in safe hands. I had a surprise video that I wanted to show on the day, so made an appointment to set everything up the day before, Shelby and Malcolm were brilliant, all done on the QT and helped set everything up with no hassle or stress. On the wedding day the venue was extremely organised and was a lovely setting, the decking area was a massive hit with such lovely weather. The food was fantastic, for a meal that sat 60 at once the food was tender, tasty and hot. What I felt was a great touch was Viv noticed my son didn't like his dessert, so she went out of her way to offer him something off the menu like ice cream or cheesecakes. Throughout the day they were very tentative and couldn't do anything more for us. Staying overnight was handy, even though it was loud with the events that were on, but that was expected. Just a couple of mentions as Darren was also a star on the day, making people smile even though they were extremely busy, Viv was in control the whole day and made the day run super seamlessly. Shelby set up the venue perfectly and Malcom the DIY man/barman/did most things was a gent throughout! Great experience and thank you to all the staff

i had booked an overnight stay, for a friends wedding reception. Arrived about 16.15 and found the car park nearly full and in total limited spaces. room was ok but by 18.00 i wanted to shower ready for the reception. no hot water, so was unable to shower. plug in the sink didnt fit, as i wanted to strip wash . The maintence person came and sorted plug, so i could wash. Attended the reception but felt unclean due to no hot water. At 20.00 no hot water, so i booked out of the hotel to go home,as no ETA on the water. As i left the car park was full to the brim, cars parked anywhere they could, 2/3 functions on, cars and people everywhere, definitely not enough spaces for the venue to hold so many funtions. i had to ask for a refund due to no hot water, only given half and attitude was, well we are doing all we can. i dont pay nearly £90 a night and to find no hot water and to be told you cant gave a shower. Had a full refund been offered or an alternative for me to shower for the wedding reception the review would have been a postive out of a negative. For the price Norwich offers much better hotels.

Popped back to Norwich for a couple of days to visit friends and chose the Oaklands. Room 7 was obviously very freshly refurbed and was absolutely spotlessly clean! Nice clean lines and simply furnished - bathroom was great with a fantastic tiled floor. I think we were given a cheeky little upgrade as we only booked a standard double but got a room with an extra sitting area/ lounge so felt more like an exec or jr suite. Coffee & biccies were in abundance with some lovely hot chocolate too. Kettle & hair dryer in the room but no iron although I assume they would be available on request... to be fair, I didn't read the guest directory. First night we enjoyed wine on the terrace and dinner in the restaurant with a friend which was fab and very reasonably priced. All in all, a really great stay with just a couple of niggles... The shower pressure was awful and took me ages to wash my hair as I just couldn't get the shampoo out! Water temperature was all over the place. For some reason I felt like I was going to roll off the edge of the bed - it felt like it sloped toward the door. Most staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, although the lady who checked us out was quite sour. Perhaps insist on some very strong coffee for all staff before starting their shift?! We paid £121.50 on booking.com for 2 nights RO. We did call the hotel directly to see if they could price match, as I always prefer going direct, but their rate was £170 and we were told very firmly they didn't price match! Thanks for a great stay - would definitely stay again.

Was given a bill at the end of the stay we did not spend was wavered but was made to feel no less than deceitful. No proper tea on the first morning but took my own the following day just to be sure. Overall very friendly. Clump of hairs on the bed on arrival.

Working in Norfolk for a few days, this is an idea location to cover the county. The location is lovely, quiet and off set from the road. The suite I stayed in was comfy and spacious also had the luxury of a balcony which I could enjoy before and after work. The bed was fine and the shower in the wet room was good. The evening meals, was fresh, generous portions and home made and was very tasty, breakfast a decent selection of cereals and hot food to choose from. The staff are friendly, polite and helpful.

We stayed here for my friends wedding and had a lovely time. Everything went to plan and we were extremely lucky with the weather and could enjoy the terrace and BBQ area. We had a lovely breakfast the next day and would recommend this place to anyone thinking of having their wedding there.

We booked a Black Friday deal so had a one night stay in a suite, afternoon tea and a 2 course dinner for 2 at a bargain price. Our suite was nice, the food at the hotel was excellent and the staff were really friendly and nice. Would definitely go back.

Visited for 2 night for a friends wedding. The hotel was OK, the bar area was modern and large with lots of seating but our room was very dated. Would have been a decent size if it wasn't for the huge dark double wardrobes that dominated it. The bed was far too soft and lumpy and creeked with every move! The room also had a laminate floor so we were conscious of making. We didn't eat in the restaurant so couldn't comment on the food. However if the food from the wedding was anything to go by I'm sure it was very good. The bar was well stocked but more bar staff were needed.

We stayed at this hotel for a short break to Norwich.....clean and comfortable enough not the best location to walk into the city. Big comfy bed. Could of done with more than 1 tea bag each in our room and the shower was a bit slow. Complimentary water would of been nice.

We stayed on good Friday with two friends for my friend's birthday. This was a fantastic deal and great value for money. We had a lovely afternoon tea with prosecco. Evening meal and breakfast included which we could not fault at all. the room was of good size and very clean, being Friday the music stopped around 11.30 so we had a great night sleep. There are often deals on which could be advertised more to make this a good place to stay at good rates. However, with out a deal could work out expensive to stay here.

Fantastic price for this stay. Food and afternoon tea were fantastic. Service was fantastic just let down by a super hot room and very noisy . A bit tired around the edges. Still well worth the money and would highly recommend .

I was staying over on Saturday night before an early start on Sunday. It was so noisy until 12/1am and I did not feel welcome in going to the restaurant for a meal as a wedding after party was there. Room was clean but really far too warm with no way of cooling the room without opening a window, to then have hear more noise. Would not stay here on a weekend day ever again.

Went here for mothers day lunch. Food disappointing; very basic veg eg peas, sweetcorn. Meat nice, I think they were just trying to be greedy - far too many people and not enough staff, so service very slow. A pity as gave been there before for carvery and very good.

a big thank you for our wonderful wedding on the early March. We loved every minute, and we can't thank you enough for what was a totally awesome time. You were all brilliant but must say a special thank you to Viv, our host for the day, she was amazing. Viv looked after us and our guests so well, I felt relaxed and happy and didn't worry about a thing! Thank you Viv you are a star! The food was hot, tasty and everyone said how lovely it was. The service was excellent and quick. Stayed in a lodge and it was clean and comfy, breakfast was lovely.

Had my Mum's 90th birthday meal at the Oakland's. All the staff were friendly, helpful and very accommodating. The carvery was excellent with a variety of vegetables. They catered for all food preferences and intolerances. Highly recommend if you're thinking of having an event there.

Friendly staff, welcoming. Extremely helpful staff. They looked after us very well. Our room was bright and airy. Very clean, had everything you needed, such as extra pillows in a storage space within the room. Easy to open windows .. essential .. as the room can get very hot with bathroom towel radiators on ... Only slight gripe is that some minor maintenance of telephone socket/loose wires maybe should be more robust - the bedside phone worked if you wiggled the wires. II liked the mixture of styles of decor throughout the hotel. The choices of the breakfast menu is superb. We chose to have the lunchtime carvery, maybe a limited choice but it is such good value and lots of lovely vegetables to choose from. The evening menu and all inclusive meal deal are very good value. Restaurant looks out onto a very spacious patio/decking area - it can be opened up via the Tri-folding doors. There is live music during and leading up to the weekend, either private functions or the all inclusive meal and music. This can make it noisy in the rooms - we enjoyed listening to the music in our room. The disabled parking bays are smaller than any I have seen. Leaves little room for those that need the extra space to get out safely and comfortably.

Just had a carvery for lunch at this restaurant can't believe the price. Not a big choice from the a la Carter menu but food very good. We went a month ago and the lunch time carvery was £3.95 but today it was £2.95. Choice of 3 meats and lots of vegetables to choose. Starters was only £2 and desserts only £2. Choice of starters was pate or soup. Soup came with croutons and bread roll, very large portion. Pate was a plateful, infact we said was a meal in itself, that and a dessert would have done us. Desserts choice of 3. Nice surroundings , it's not luxurious but pleasant and the staff very friendly. Will be back. Large car park at the back.

we stayed in a lodge in the grounds of hotel which are extremely spacious bright clean and comfortable would recommend to anyone staff very friendly food was of a high standard cannot find any complaints

We booked a room for 1 night for friends wedding reception. The room was a good size,with plenty of room for my husband, teenage daughter and myself. Bed was comfortable, tea and coffee, lots of hanging space for clothes,in two large wardrobes. Good selection for breakfast and very helpful and friendly staff.

Great hotel just outside Norwich City. Offers great amenities and pleasant place to stay. Suites are spacious, clean and very comfortable. Breakfast was great with lots of variety.to choose from. Restaurant offers a nice menu and very reasonably priced

Myself and two friends went for the Carvery lunch today. It was absolutely perfect. Loads of choice of vegetables too. I would highly recommend. Well done to all the staff and of course, the Chef. Thanks.

We attended the Greatest Showman on Friday with friends, we had a super night. The food was much better than when we previously attended an event at the hotel. We came with friends who are getting married later this year, and we can't wait to come back! Special mention to the lovely lady and her dog who was dressed as a lion, she was amazing also to the lady who seated us holly, who was discussing all things weddings with our friend - we hope she does our friends, she was so lovely and happy to help. The girls serving were also fab and the popcorn was a lovely little touch.

Came with my family to watch the greatest showman event they had at the Oaklands and it was really fantastic. The welcome, with the red carpet and arrival drinks was fantastic and a very well behaved “lion” posing for pictures all night! The food was delicious, and service for 100 odd people in a tight space was run so smoothly. The tall lady (South African?) went above and beyond with her costume and really made the night what it was. Very talkative and friendly. The show itself was brilliant, the young brunette girl was the star of the show, such a strong powerful for voice for someone who was so young. Must have been about 15/16 and she was brilliant. We thoroughly enjoyed the 241 cocktails in the main bar afterwards and would fully recommend any future similar events because this one was brilliant. The only criticism I have was a female employee wearing a rather revealing top and spending most of the evening on her phone. A large lady, I'm assuming manager as not in the same branded black uniform as rest of staff. Maintaining professional appearance and behaviour is vital for all members of staff!

Attracted by an advert in EDP and the carvery price £2.99 but you must by a drink, Waited five minutes to be greeted by staff, shown to table and before we had even sat down was asked "what drinks did we require". Told the waitress we needed to see drinks list. waited for nearly 10 minutes for waitress to come back but no such luck. Went up to carvery for meal. Carvery chef just asked what meat did we require the greeting was just that.The kitchen chefs had not seasoned the selection of meats so no flavour, just a piece of protein,We asked another waitress for drinks., she went to the bar and ordered the drinks. about 10 minutes later the original waitress came and asked had we ordered our drinks yet and as we said yes she said that she would get them. Not a good experience and had better meals and service in a working mans cafe Won't be going back in the near future

Went for a carvery today with my family inc a small infant and for £2.99 each you could not ask for more. They even gave us a bowl and let the little one eat F.o.c. Great choice of veg and meats and all the staff were helpful and friendly. Would recommend 100%

Popped into the Oakland's today for a carvery. Was amazed at the £2.95 price. The staff were friendly and welcoming, we got greeted instantly by a young man on reception named joe who was friendly and chatty. We then went into the dining area and were seated by Vivian who brought our drinks to the table and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The carvery was delicious, a wide variety of vegetables and the meat was very fresh. Amazing prices, attention to detail and friendly staff. Will defiantly recommend

I stayed here for a night in January on business. It was average....ish. The room was good and I like BW's touches of individual soaps, good sized towels etc but the bar was expensive. It felt like the staff didn't really want me there. The lady on reception was clearly having a bad day. The young barman called me ‘my man' which is only a small step down from the horrendous ‘fella'. Whatever happened to ‘sir'? Come on Best Western we know you're better than this...

For its price, it's a good, standard hotel. Good value! Service staff are friendly, hotel room is comfortable. Only thing is the cleanliness... the drawers were not clean, think it had some food crumbs. See photo. As the hotel is always tucked away, it's quiet. Breakfast is not bad too... your standard English breakfast fare.

Stayed here as a couple for a two night break between Christmas and the New Year. Found all the staff from reception, waiting to housekeeping very friendly and most helpful and were engaging with their guests when time permitted. Stayed in one of the suites which was described as a Lodge which was wonderful and had a very cosy atmosphere and was just a little hop to the main hotel. The evening meals and breakfasts were all absolutely wonderful and cooked to perfection, well done to the new chef! Hope to return in the future and would definitely recommend to friends!

We had our wedding at The Oaklands back in October and the food served to our guests can only be described as was low grade dog food and the service of getting this poor excuse of a wedding breakfast was a joke, 2 waitresses to 84 guests! Some tables hadn't received food while others had already finished their meals. Also the bar had 1 member of staff behind it so trying to get a drink to wash down the stone like roast potatoes was impossible, which ment guests had to go to the public bar to get a drink. The marquee was beyond cold, we was told that the heater had an mechanical issue and kept cutting out, but they were on the case to fix it, then after a couple of hours of no heat another member of staff said it had run out of diesel and someone had gone out to get fuel. Eventually by the late evening the heater came on but this was too late for some of our elderly guests who had to leave because even with coats and blankets the room was far too cold. The evening buffet was not much better, cold and inedible. The bar continued to be understaffed through the night meaning guests still had to go through into the main bar all night to get a drink which was heaving as there was another wedding, Birthday party and normal patrons of the bar. Me my wife and father in law raised all these points the following morning and was told it will be looked into straight away. We heard nothing until mid November when we had to chase them for a reply, and even now we're still no closer to having our problems solved. Having marrried our wedding day we're still dealing with the stress of the issue not being resolved. This is after months of emails and even letters sent to the Oaklands and to the CEO of Best Western Rob Paterson. I couldn't highly UNRECOMMEND a venue anymore. Still two months down the line and no outcome on a refund for how poor our day was. We had loads of family travel far to come to Our day and all disappointed on the service they receive on there whole stay which included the night before and morning after wedding. Poor food the morning after with the breakfast. Food was cold and inedible. I never want to return to this hotel again, we haven't even had the chance to enjoy our marriage because of the stress of sorting this out and it a disgusting that not one manager or deputy manger have been willing to talk to us they have left it to staff that weren't even present on our day.

On arrival at hotel all was ok we booked in to a 'suite' in a separate block the room was 'tired' and needed some attention, it had a small kitchen area but with no utensils or crockery so pointless to be honest. Any way this was my Daughters Wedding weekend and this is where my issues arise. The room that the wedding function was to be held in was COLD the heating was not working properly during the reception and meal. The food was cold and not fit for purpose, the bar for our wedding had ONE member of staff which meant long delays for people to get a drink. The hotel had two weddings and a birthday to cater for on the weekend and obviously was struggling to cope. I complained on the weekend to the Hotel management as my daughter was upset by these issues on her WEDDING DAY and have since written two letters and sent emails and the situation has still not been resolved the wedding was in October 2018!!!!

A present for Christmas, we enjoyed our stay here, nice afternoon tea & breakfast, would not have SYF meal in the evening again, too much meat, no salads ect to have with it, and everything had flavourings , we prefer plain chips ,potatoes, beans ect.

Fantastic Christmas lunch, cooked to perfection. There was 6 in our party and we were all very impressed. The staff are a credit to the hotel, so friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be returning.

3 colleagues booked with me for work Christmas meeting and dinner. My room had a single bed and very creaky floor. As it was Wednesday evening we went to bed at a reasonable time. No hope of sleeping as there was a noisy function with disco music up to at least midnight. Finally got to sleep, only to be woken at 3 am by drunken guests having a row up and down the corridor, banging on doors and shouting for nearly an hour. We reported this on checking out, but the receptionist was totally uninterested in doing anything about it.

The hotel was very good value for money, clean room, comfortable bed, good breakfast. Check in-out was quick and efficient with polite and helpful staff. The location was convenient close by the river.

We arrived in room and all appeared ok at first glance. Went to make cuppa to find cups hadn't been cleaned. Had cuppa and then went to have shower, electric shower was not producing hot water. Picked up phone to call reception but phone was dead. Walked to reception and Joe advised the shower would be sorted ASAP - I asked how long ASAP was and he didn't know. this isn't ideal, I didn't want maintenance knocking at our door whilst having a bath but also would it be fixed by time I check out? Big Christmas party on that evening and this appeared far more important to Joe. When I went to run a bath I noticed 5 hairs in the bath that I had to clean, whilst in the bath I noticed fan was filthy, over flow hole was dirty with grime, brown grime on the shower screen, towels didn't match (one was very dated), tile work was dreadful, hairs on floor and thick dust with hairs on bath panel. I complained to joe when I arrived back at hotel and he offered me a slight refund but tiny compared to the issues. There was an audience and had the audience not been there I don't believe he would have offered. The following day I noticed there was no mattress or pillow protector, the padding between the mattress and sheet was dirty and compliments tray was well used and dirty. Would not recommend staying here

Stayed at this hotel last night. Yes it's a cheap hotel and yrs the bed was Very comfortable. But that is all the positive reviews I can give. Firstly the room was not cleaned on arrival as there was still human waste in the toilet and over the toilet seat. Then the major issue of sleep. We was in room 11 which was next to the stairs and above the reception. You was constantly being awaken from anyone walking up the stairs or being in the reception due to the stairs being very creaky. You could hear everything. Sadly I wouldn't stay at this hotel again as I don't know how they can rent this room out.

I booked Lunch for a group of friends. Most enjoyable 3 course lunch with excellent service, good wines, in a room for our exclusive use. Would recommend “The Oakland's “ for parties and family gatherings. I will use Oakland's again with the lovely Hollie's organisation.

We stayed at this hotel last week before heading to The most amazing Christmas show at thursford. We were running a little late arriving at the hotel, but were met with the lovely holly jumping aboard our coach to hand our keys out which made the process a lot smoother having been on lots of coach trips I found it easier and quicker my luggage was also carried up to my room by Ella, it was appreciated as there is no lift and my walking isn't what it used to be. Holly served us at Dinner both nights and she was the talk of the coach on our way home, a lovely smile and very chatty, she is real credit to your hotel. Nothing was to much trouble, and she ensured our stay was comfortable. We hope to return again next year

My partner held his 80th party at this venue and the staff could not have been more helpful and efficient. The afternoon went as planned and the food was enjoyed by all the guests.The Garden room was ideal for our 40 guests.

I stay here regularly on business. Always the same friendly welcome. Rooms are very comfortable and immaculate. The staff are so friendly, Bar area relaxing, and food is good. I have been staying at this hotel on a regular basis for the last 18 months and I have been happy every time. Thoroughly recommended

We have stayed at the Oaklands several times this year and highly recommend it. The staff are friendly, welcoming and helpful and work hard to make our stay as enjoyable as it can be. The restaurant is lovely, whenever we have eaten there the food has been delicious and there is a good choice on the menu. Rooms are clean and comfortable, I particularly recommend the suites which are roomy and great if you want a bit more space. We really enjoy our stays and will continue to visit whenever we can. Adequate parking and lovely friendly atmosphere.

Only reason I'm giving this 5 stars is because jack that works on the bar, great customer service always had a smile and always made time for conversation! Would highly recommend coming here for a drink or 2

Stayed here recently to celebrate the wife's birthday. We booked a lodge and was allocated the Oulton. Very spacious and modernly decorated and couldn't have asked for more. Tried out the cocktails and they were yummy especially the Candy Cane & Pornstar Martini. Comfortable nights sleep with the linen feeling super soft. Breakfast was a good spread with a nice selection of breads, juices and cooked full English. Look forward to returning soon.

We attended the Children's halloween party yesterday and I can't thank you enough, my daughter had a blast. Charlie cheesecake was fantastic and really captured my daughters attention especially with the balloon making and disco dancing. We were greeted by the lovely Hollie, who made my daughter feel more comfortable by offering her some sweets and complimenting her costume! I'm considering hiring the venue for my daughters 6th Birthday party! Roll on Christmas thank you again

I only stayed for one night in this hotel as I was in the area for business. It was the cheapest place I could find and I often worry about the quality of Best Western hotels, having had a couple of bad experiences, but this was a good one. My room was warm, cosy and well equipped. The tea tray had packets of biscuits on which always adds an extra star to my ratings (yummy) and the bathroom was clean and well put together. I slept very well, despite my room being the first on the corridor after the fire door. This may have been because the hotel was quite quiet but I was still relieved. The biggest issue for me was the breakfast. I can't stand tea being served in big flasks, it tastes disgusting and it's never the right brew for me. Why not just have a hot water flask with some tea bags? Also, the selection of hot food did not look appetizing with anaemic hash browns the worst thing on the plates. And finally, the jams were all served in shared jars, meaning you are highly likely to be following a 'double dipper' who has added butter and toast crumbs to the jar! Please think about sachets instead, or at least provide teaspoons by the jars to help people not to share their toast with the next guests... Having said all of that, the breakfast isn't a deal breaker and for the money I paid, I would happily return for another stay here.

Visited with my other half and I have to say this hotel is absolutely lovely. Scenic, The staff are brilliant, especially Jack behind the bar and Joe at reception. The food was brilliant and the restaurant staff really looked after us. The only spoiler on our evening was the shrill, piercing voice of one member of staff in particular. You could hear her voice from inside the kitchen, being rude and patronising towards staff. The way she treated other members of staff was embarrassing. I would guess she is a manager as she wasn't in uniform but she didn't look like a manager, in fact she looked scruffy.

Booked this for my daughter's wedding, and this place was amazing. Everything was perfect, the venue, the bedrooms, the staff and oh that food! They accommodated some quirky dietary requests and it was seamless. Highly recommended for a function or just for a meal. The beds left a lot to be desired, but what a day! The wedding organiser, Danielle, was brilliant. Vivienne the MC was marvellous. We used the resident DJ and it was worth every penny. We are still getting messages from people saying what a great wedding it was. One of the best days of my life!

We came along for the rob chandlers disco night...! Beforehand we have some food and tried out the new menu stuff your face (SYF) the guys are fantastic especially Macy who offered very good service and was always asking if we was ok and whether we wanted more, service with a smile goes long way x thank you we shall be coming again x

Lovely, friendly and professional establishment. Nothing is too much and the waitress Macy was very informative, patient and willing to accommodate every need. Firstly on arrival, was greeted by front reception, swiftly checked on and show to room. When asking for additional things for the room. This was discussed and sorted promptly. On being seated for our evening meal we were introduced to Macy the waitress who was very professional and happy to accommodate every request. Service with a smile Highly recommended to all, families as well as couples

Stayed for a friend's wedding. Overall this is a very nice hotel in a good location. The hotel rooms situated within the hotel are cosy, clean and nicer than the pictures appear on the website. We stayed in a suite situated just outside the main hotel. If you look on the website and see wood cabin looking places with a slightly untidy garden that is where the suites are. These are described as "luxury" suites but I'm not sure luxury is the most accurate description. They are spacious and the bathroom and bedroom were clean and faultless. However, the living area, although huge, was not what I would call luxurious. Our friends' suites were slightly smaller but more cosy and homely and had a nice balcony (they were upstairs). We were in the Calthorpe Suite on the ground floor. The sofa was a little bit grubby with bleach stains on and a little smelly - it really should be replaced. There were no cushions on the sofa, an office looking glass table with nothing on it and office swivel chair; it was more centre parcs style than luxury but functional. We had no garden view because a low wall and bushes obscured it. The actual garden area really needs a complete revamp anyway and a tidy up. It's a little off putting but has a lot of potential to look lovely. May be an idea to get rid of the unused swimming pool too. Having said that the big plus side of this hotel is the friendly helpful staff that made the stay very pleasant overall. Brilliant venue for a wedding, the staff really put themselves out and are very approachable. I would stay here again but would be satisfied with a normal room.

Spent two nights at this hotel for my brother's wedding and received excellent service. Staff were very attentive and nothing was too much trouble. Breakfast was good and the bar staff were very friendly. Would definitely stay again.

We were invited here for lunch with friends. Superb. The carvery was extensive and hot. At only £10 for 2 meals, very good value. Big choice. Desserts limited but still good. Lovely room to eat in. Staff very attentive and friendly. We will return.

A quick stop over en route to visiting family. The room was clean, light and extremely comfortable. All of the staff we met were polite and very helpful. Had drinks and a meal in the on site restaurant - perfect. Overall our stay was Great Value for money.

Had our wedding here on Saturday for the day and night in the large marquee. Absolutely flawless from start to finish. Best day of my life by far we definitely chose the right venue. The staff were so friendly and helpful, the room was lovely, the decorations looked fabulous the food was wonderful. My only criticism Is I can't turn back the clock and do it all again. Truely amazing day loved every minute of it thank you Oakland's Hotel for making out day so perfect! From Mr & Mrs Walpole.

My husband and I married here and quite often return for our anniversary. We stay in a lodge- which are lovely. Staff were friendly, didn't want to leave! Would recommend! Photos are view from balcony

Last time here very poor, but pleasantly surprised this time, it was like a different hotel! Rooms and food all good, as were staff (staff good last time rooms and food let them down then). Room, number 4, was excellent, breakfast fine and dinner too, so guess it was just a bad day last time,,very glad we returned and tried them again.

Visited with my husband last weekend, whilst visiting family in the area and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The hotel was busy on the Saturday night, with a wedding function, although this didn't prevent the staff from being welcoming and attentive. Our room was lovely, with a large bathroom and the restaurant was very relaxed, with a lovely decked area, where we sat and had drinks outside. Plenty of tea/coffee making facilities in the room and staff even gave us extra biscuits, when we asked! There are also some lovely looking lodges within the grounds, although we'd booked the hotel, we might try one on another visit. Breakfast was excellent, where you helped yourself to cereal, breads and delicious "full English" and plenty of tea/coffee etc. Would definitely recommend if you're visiting the area and we would stay there again.

Went to the Oakland's for a family birthday lunch. Food was lovely, service was excellent and Viv is always a happy smiley face. Have been here before for other family functions and it is always excellent on all accounts.

I thought the above offer was such a good deal, I booked it for myself and also for my mum for her birthday. My reports she had a very comfortable stay in June and we came to meet her for a meal, all was good in the meal apart from the ribs which were awful. The suite on our stay was very nice, we stayed in suite Ant, we thought we were attending an 80's night, but it turned out this had been cancelled, so we ended up not using all of our tab included and headed into town. The bar service prior to leaving was good apart from the bizarre decision by one of the staff to leave our drinks at a table that had no one sitting at it, about 20 minutes later we asked about the drinks and the mistake was picked up on. In the morning after a comfortable sleep we went to check out and sure enough we hadn't spent our tab, we waited for our friends to check out, one of which had ordered a Red Bull at the bar and was waiting while the bar man walked around with her £10 as he had no change, I told her that she should put it on her room as she'd probably not spent her allowance, when she asked the guy, he was quite abrupt and just kept saying he couldn't do that now as he'd rung it through, ... nevermind that we were all kept waiting while he held the money in his hand earwigging on a complaining customer. It wasn't a great success of a stay, but the rooms were nice, the cocktails were good, just a few bits were quite disappointing.

Friendly hotel with a homely feel. The staff are cheerful and make your stay an enjoyable experience. Have used this hotel a number of times and will continue to so. Excellent location for road routes.

We booked via booking.com and deal was very good, this is the reason for booking. Checked in and receptionist asked us if we knew what room number we was staying in, told him we didn't, anyway checked in and went to room. Very strange way to check in. Knew rooms are dated but bedroom part ok and clean. Bathroom had a weird musty smell, it was clean except black marks between the tiles. I had booked dinner for 7:30pm as a 3 course carvery was included in our package. When we arrived we was told the carvery had broken, but when we sat down the roasts had run out so a little disappointed but ordered other things from the menu. My partners soup arrived and was cold, we didn't say anything at the time as didn't want to create a problem as had it been hot would have been nice. But now after knowing about main course we should have although nothing would have been done. Then our main courses arrived and I was asked if wanted sauces, which said yes please, also cutlery was mentioned, 10 mins later we had to get another staff member as they still hadn't arrived. But I'd also noticed my blue cheese burger was lacking in cheese, I asked and was told “I can get them to stick some in if you wish” so taken back didn't really know what to say, when she brought the items said yes you are correct it is meant to have it in and walked off. So I eat a quarter of one of the burgers and 3 chips, which were really undercooked and left the rest. My partners was meant to have fries but came with sweet potato fries which he really didn't want. When the receptionist cleared (not sure why)she said was anything wrong and did tell her but the answer was we are short staffed tonight. So guess that is ok then. We left dinner feeling that we didn't have the evening we expected. But I know we wasn't alone as another 3 couples had problems around us. Similar issues. But the 3 staff had enough time to stand not far behind us and moan about all the guests, laughing. Breakfast the next day the lady that was running it on her own was wonderful and it was a shame she didn't work the night before. I planned to say all of this on check out but wasn't even asked how our stay was, this surprised me and in disbelief we left. We have a stay at best western brook hotel in Norwich in a months time and hope this one is an improvement on this stay. No food booked at this one though. I can see on reviews the hotel don't really worry about past stays and say that if you pay for another stay they will look after you but why should I pay again to get the service we should have received. But at least I can pass on my experience to anyone else before they book. We had room number 1 and was right by a door, at night was so noisy. I now wish I'd read the reviews and booked the premier inn !

We stayed for one night on recently having found it via Booking.com. it was at short notice and was very good value at £45. We arrived at about 8.30pm and noted that there appeared to be a deficit of staff. We had to wait about 10 mins to be checkes in as the only member of staff trained to use the booking computer was dealing with an irate customer whose keycard had stopped working. There also appeared to be a shortage of bar staff. The room was well appointed with all the little useful cosmetic items available. We didn't use the restaurant as we had already made arrangements for breakfast the following morning. The only gripe really was the bedroom doors slamming late night and early morning. Fortunately we were near the end of the first floor corridor and there are only four rooms in this part. Hotel really needs to consider silent door closing system...like Premier Inn. Not put us off and may stay again if circumstances dictate.

We arrived at the Oakland's hotel for a family carvery at 8.00 only to be told by a member of staff that they could not take walk in bookings. There is nothing to say re this on the website There were plenty of free tables, and according to the menu, food is served from 12-9! This is completely unacceptable and will NOT be returning. We were all very disappointed!!

From the moment we stepped in the door my wife and I knew we had booked the right hotel. We were warmly greeted by the receptionist and were shown to our room which was immaculate. You could tell straight away that the housekeeping staff take a pride in their hotel, there wasn't a speck of dirt in sight and the on-suite bathroom absolutely shone like a new penny. On checking out we were bid farewell with a warm smile and asked if there were any problems - which there weren't, how can you fault perfection?. A highly recommended hotel to anyone staying in the area.

food was lovely bar reasonably priced sadly on two visits here something was wrong both times first time we paid for champagne in our room on arrival but this was not done and we had to ask for it. second visit, we upgraded our room but there was a wedding on and music playing until quite late and the markee is right next to the most expensive rooms so unless you are a wedding guest I wouldn't recommend staying on a Friday or Saturday night. bed was comfy and rooms were very clean. I probably won't stay again.

Negatives you can not afford pretending to be a Best Western hotel: - room not available before 15:00 hours - small 2-persons bed with a soft matras (in a large room?) - winter bedblanket/cover, to be used during summer temperatures above 25 degrees. - no wardrobe available - large (and clean) bathroom with a toilet size handbasin for two persons (see pictures on website !) - large windows (plus) with early wake-up curtains that only partially black out sunlight - no wifi in the hotelroom - no relevant tourist information available at frontdesk Positives: - Friendly helpfull personal - Clean - Great large rough towels - Everything on the room available to make your own coffee/tea Last but not least: roomprices vary (at least) from 59 to 110 euro. Such a price differences are unjustifiable for any hotel and certainly not for any Best Western.

We are staying at The Oaklands for a month due to home renovations. What can I say all the staff here at the Oakland's have gone above and beyond to make our stay as comfortable as possible. The staff are always so.friendly and accommodating, nothing is too much trouble . The chefs are happy to make something that's not on the menu??, which you wouldn't get in most other hotels/restaurants. It wouldn't be fair to name individuals as they are all a great team and all work well together to make it happen. I would highly recommend The Oakland's.

Myself and my new wife decided to get married at the oaklands last weekend. These words will not do justice to the outstanding service and care afforded to us by all of the staff at the oaklands. From main bar staff to the girls and guys who waited the tables at our wedding breakfast. We couldnt of hoped for a more welcoming and attentive service. Holly who acted as our toast master was brilliant. Always there when needed but not overbearing. Friendly and patient at all times. Vivian who I believe is front of house again was amazing. We met her on our food tasting and she was there on the day. She was happy and smiling when ever I saw her and from speaking to family and friends all were impressed with her. The team of girls and guy who did the wine and the bar in the function room were attentive and happy to stop and speak and smile while still extremely efficient. The food was exceptional throughout and another huge thank would go to the chefs and kitchen staff behind the scenes. As there were nothing but positive comments from all of our guests. From myself and my wife we would like to say a huge thank you to the Oakland's and the staff there and couldn't recommend you high enough. You really helped our day to be as special as it was. Many thanks Andy and Sandra.

Well we're do I start we booked in for one nights stay in what they described as a annex room, please don't be fooled by this it's basically a house/ bedsits totally unfit for the purpose of a hotel absolutely awful. Anyway after I complained about the disrepair and general state of the place they very kindly moved us too a lovely place called the ran worth this was very nice and completely different place and made our stay very nice indeed so thanks again ????????????

I will not provide dates as I wouldn't want the bride and groom to realise how upset their guests were. Not just for us but also the bride and groom. There appeared little or no attention paid to them. After all it's supposed to be their special day, so why was the bride having to request water on tables etc. The planning and finer details was lax at best. The food was late, sparse and in some cases raw and inedible. Once the top table were eating it was another hour before all of the guests were also eating. The food ran out. Why? There was no one in charge to oversee the young staff members. I don't blame the staff, they had no guidance or direction, no enthusiasm or passion and to them it was probably just another wedding. To the owners/landlords...it's a tough trade and if you want to still be batting against the opposition you need to up your game. If weddings are your bread and butter you need to be there, observe and make changes.

We stayed here for one night following a family event nearby. We had two children under 2 with us and the hotel obligingly provided a travel cot in the room at our request. However, they gave us a second floor room and there are no lifts. The heat hit us as we got to the beginning of the second set of stairs. The second floor smelt like dirty cooking oil and the rooms were unbearably hot with no air conditioning and all the windows closed. Even once we opened the windows the heat was too much. We asked for a fan which the hotel happily provided and set up while we were out but this made minimal impact. The breakfast was edible but it was evident that some of it had been sitting a while and some of it was over cooked, the toasting machine didn't work and the “kitchen assistant” offering to toast some bread I initially mistook to be the maintenance man as his clothing was filthy. The car park is free which is good but it was absolutely packed with 2 weddings being held at the hotel as well as guests.

nice hotel with a big free car park good staff service good size rooms great shower nice bed good buffet breakfast only a 5 min drive in to the centre good for business and leisure customers set back from main road so not noisy

I stay at Oakland's hotel for a couple of nights while visiting Norfolk and I must say what an excellent stay I had. The food was great and the receptionist Lynda couldn't have been more attentive , she made feel welcome throughout my stay and made sure everything was too my satisfaction. I Definitely recommend you to friends.

Me and my wife recently got married here. The entire day was amazing, the staff were exceptional, especially Martin (the wedding host) he was outstanding, ensuring that all our needs were met. The food was great and the room was great... I can't say a bad word about this place. I would definitely recommend to all ????????

I phoned the morning of our stay to ask if we could get in our room early as we were attending a wedding being held there at the hotel as we were traveling on a very hot day and wanted to change there .we were to,d we would have to pay an extra £20 .then when we got there we were given a room on third floor with no lift, my husband is 70 and suffers from asthma! Then the room the worst thing was the “double bed” which was only 4 foot wide so we couldn't move even to turn over ,then we had to have a freezing cold shower in the morning think is fair to say we would never stay here again

Just returned from a 3 night stay to attend a family wedding at Oakland's. We found the staff to be friendly, our room was clean and had everything you would expect, food was OK but a bit overpriced. However I really think management need to pay attention to what guests are regularly feeding back to them:- >Please notify guests if you are hosting weddings during their stay as it is very loud until midnight (especially with two wedding discos at the same time plus rowdy guests) it's great if you are a wedding guest but awful if you aren't! >Family rooms directly above noisy veranda/bar/wedding venue also needs to be disclosed before booking >That staff will be busy with weddings and therefore ‘normal' guests are rather neglected eg) there maybe limited food availability, slow service and places to sit and relax outside. I think your feedback would improve greatly if you were upfront with potential guests about the noise and didn't juggle so many functions at once.

Spent 2 nights here at the hotel it is nice and has a nice layout. There was a mix up with our room which was sorted on arrival so thank you for that. Unfortunately our next room the shower water was warm, want to say thank you to Lynda front house manager for her help. If you have breakfast get there early it's meant to be on till 10 but I got down for 9 and there wasn't much left 1 egg 3 sausages and no bacon loads of mushrooms though.

Great hotel, really friendly staff and the food was delicious. We stayed in one of the lodges and loved all the space it offered. We could even sit outside on our balcony in the evening and have a drink while the kids were sleeping, a great added bonus! Comfy bed, modern and very clean. Jo at breakfast was really friendly and very accommodating, nothing was too much trouble for her. Would not hesitate to recommend anyone to stay.

Went on a business lunch. Had gammon served with tinned pineapple and dried out chips. This was the worst meal ever. Gammon dried up and tough. Cheap cut of meat, I suppose. The lady next to me sent hers back as she couldn't even cut it. The replacement was no better. We were waiting for the accompanying vegetables to no avail. Just that! Even some frozen peas or a sprig of parsley would have been nice. I complained, but was told that was the choice chosen. That was no answer. I often like gammon, but not tough dried up stuff. One of my colleagues said even tomato ketchup would have been welcome to overcome the dryness. I waited ten minutes in the bar to get a drink with others. No apology given for the lack of service. Three customers were waiting and complaining about the lack of service. Eventually someone arrives and was so slow. No apologies except the comment 'No problem" four times ( a phrase I dislike) every time I thanked him.

Stayed here while travelling on business and really liked it. My room was a little creaky underfoot and the furniture a little old but that's character. Good bar and very friendly staff. Only negative was the breakfast which wasn't the best.

What a superb night in a very comfy bed and superbly laid out room. Apparently a party was taking place but didn't hear a think. The bar was nice and staff very friendly, excellent breakfast. Great stay

Brilliant meal with great helpful staff, perfectly set out for a presentation evening. Disco and entertainment was great fun, and bar staff were polite and helpful. When organising the events team were excellent and offered lots of advice and opinions (especially Shelby and Sasha)

We got married here. The wedding planners were friendly and helpful prior to the wedding. On the day our wedding coordinator was amazing. The day ran smoothly and efficiently and we felt very well looked after. The food was lovely. We had many positive comments from our guests about our whole day. Would definitely recommend as a wedding venue.

Attended a function for 80 people last Saturday. The marquee was set out beautifully staff friendly and attentive and the plated 3 course dinner was excellent. Lots of positive comments from all. Well done Oakland's we will be back

Stayed 2 nights for a family funeral. Rooms were average but the outer fire exit door right outside my room was left open both nights which is a hazard. I had to get staff both nights to shut it and they made out it was such an inconvenience when they even made a point of saying it shouldn't have been open to begin with. No one attended to my room after the first night. No one told us there would be a wedding party with music blaring out directly under my room until midnight - absolutely disgusting and ridiculous when I desperately needed the sleep. My room was also over some kind of fan or generator so had to keep windows shut when it was epicly boiling and no fans were available. Staff were generally useless. Good was fine but nothing to get excited over. It was an overall pathetic hotel and I definitely won't be staying again or recommending to anyone.

Booked this hotel last minute. The place is very nice, staff friendly and efficient and in a nice location. Sadly the quality of food lets it down, massed produced and tasteless hence a bit over priced in my opinion. Apart from that can't fault it.

This was not our first visit to Oaklands, we had visited a few years back and thought it value for money. after a special offer email booked with my wife, our son, partner and young son. There was a wedding going on, wasn't told about it but wasn't too concerned. However we were booked into one of the lodges in the grounds, and were aware of house keeping staff in rooms above shouting and having general banter, no respect for guests. Then children from the wedding party thought the stairs in our lodge was part of their play ground! Guests at the wedding constantly came in and out of the lodge which has an external door, stairs to the suites upstairs - external door- bang our suite door then rattles badly! Went to enjoy our evening meal, the noise from the wedding was deafening! No quiet meal for us, no point in staying after for a coffee and nightcap. Returning to our suite I decided to grab a drink. The wine glasses on the side were disgusting, sticky and still very unwashed! Yuk! Our sons suite wasn't much better with a sofa covered in stains and stunk of pee! Not looking forward to trying to get some sleep with the disco still blaring and the blooming doors still banging.

Had to change rooms as the kitchen staff had a mishap in the kitchen setting the fire alarm off and causing our room to fill with cloudy smoke and stink of steak moved to a better room but with a wedding reception going on right outside our window it was hard to relax with all the noise and staff appear rude and look miserable and not welcoming wouldnt stay again also had to order a take away as food menu was so so poor!

I organised my sons wedding here and it was excellent. Danielle and Sasha helped organise everything and the day went very smoothly. Excellent day and no problems at all. From start to finish everything was perfectly timed considering there was another wedding, hen night and a BBQ it didn't affect our celebration at all. Well done all involved.

Good location for the city, surrounding attractions, the seaside resorts and the Norfolk broads. Good standard of rooms and friendly service throughout. I would recommend this hotel to anyone wanting to visit Norfolk.

Stayed overnight on a recent trip to Norwich, we were not told there was two weddings going on at the hotel on arrival.There is a nice terrace garden area to the rear of the hotel but unfortunately both ends had been roped off for the two weddings leaving the hotel guests squashed onto a few tables in the middle. We were advised that if we wanted top book for dinner we had better do it now as it would get busy(still no mention of the weddings). We decided to eat elsewhere, on our return to the hotel the car park was full with wedding guests so we had to park on the outside of the car park under a tree, in the morning the car park was empty and our car was covered in tree sap and birds mess(just had the car cleaned that day) Our room was directly under the bar so the music was quite loud. Why did you not complain I hear you say? We would have not stayed in the first place if we were informed about the weddings. Breakfast was average not value for Money at £10 each . Not a good experience which is a pity because Best Western hotels have always been excellent in the past. We will not be staying again!!

We held my rugby club's end of season presentation evening here recently. From the initial booking contact the service was excellent. The event organisers Sasha and Danielle were always very responsive and nothing was too much trouble for them. They were also very flexible in allowing me to make adjustments and additions to the guests (almost 100) only 2 days before the event. The event itself ran very smoothly with excellent food and service. I would highly recommend this venue for any large function.

This is really not at an acceptable standard for a business hotel in the UK. I had a very very cramped room - possibly the smallest I have ever stayed in worldwide. I was unable to get a firm pillow, which I find necessary to sleep. I had a very poor first night's sleep. The staff were unwilling to resolve the problem. In the end I resorted to stuffing a number of bath towels into a pillowcase. The room was boiling hot, with no airflow. The room only had a rooflight only accessible by standing on tiptoe on a chair, which is probably not in accordance with health and safety rules. In addition opening the window was not a complete solution because there was still no airflow. The solution was to wedge the door open, initially with a fire extinguisher and then the porter was able to locate a proper door wedge. Despite being a hotel on three floors there is no lift. To avoid going up and down stairs continuously which was hurting my knees I attempted to ring reception on the internal phone, but it failed to connect, and there was no mobile reception in the room. In the end I resorted to calling reception externally using Skype. The main wall and ceiling lights were extremely dim, and there is an odd “strobing” effect from the main LED wall light visible to my eyes. While it had a nice large and good quality television, it is mounted very high on the wall and to watch it from the easy chair you have to sit with the head tilted back at an uncomfortable angle, and the main wall light reflects directly on the screen. Should try harder!

The hotel does look a little tired outside but once inside it is all very modern and clean. Our room was a really good size, Great bathroom with all modern new fittings. We booked a half board rate for one night. The restaurant was good, the menu was varied and the food excellent, Amy our waitress was brilliant both at dinner and breakfast when she had to rescue the toaster from the hands of my other half who had got his toast stuck. Couldn't recommend this hotel enough, we will return!

1. Don't believe the website! We were attracted by the menu, specifically the chateaubriand, BUT it's no longer available, and hasn't been for a couple of weeks. The restaurant manager said "We haven't got round to changing it online yet". 2. There was a wedding party just outside..... no problem with that, if we had been warned - we would have booked a different day......BUT we weren't. The disco started up halfway through our meal rendering conversation impossible. The restaurant manager said, incredulously, "It's Bank Holiday weekend!". So, EXPECT ALL MEALS TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY DEAFENING MUSIC ON BANK HOLIDAY WEEKENDS! 3. The restaurant manager has yet to benefit from customer service training. 4. The steak was delicious.....a jewel in the midst of disappointment.

Visited for the Carvery today but the hot counter had broken down. Jo the waitress said that they were still doing meals with a selection of meat served to your table & no change in price. Wonderful friendly service by Jo & the rest of the staff, we had beef & turkey with all the trimmings lashings of Gravy, superb & the right ammount of food. I have moaned previously about the Roast potatoes but this time they were perfect, was told by Jo that they have prepared them differently, good to see a restaurant listening to comments. A special mention to Matt the chef cooked & served a excellent meal under difficult conditions & I have to mention the roast pots again keep it up guys.

Stayed here for a wedding function (which to be fair was very nice - it's clear that this is done well). The room was clean and will equipped. So what are the negatives? 1. The breakfast was... not good. I mean really not good at all. Quite a limited choice of cereal and a barely warm, very limited cooked buffet (some of which was pretty much stone cold). I can't help but compare the breakfast to a Premier Inn breakfast and there really was no comparison. 2. The car park was completely full as they clearly cater for more guests than it can cope with. That would normally be fine, but the next nearest place to park seemed to be almost a mile away - not great when it's raining and you're dressed up for a wedding. I wouldn't have minded if there was somebody from the hotel explaining where to park. 3. The music from the wedding disco was so loud that it literally rattled the fittings in the room. Having a young child who clearly wasn't going to be dancing until midnight (when the music stopped), I'm not sure that giving us a room directly above the disco was a great idea. Again, I wouldn't have minded too much if somebody had had the foresight to mention it to us so we could be prepared. Would I recommend this hotel? Probably not, unless I got cheap deal and I knew there were no functions on, in which case it would be ok (although I'd give the breakfast a miss). If we were going to another wedding here I think we'd get a taxi and stay somewhere else.

We were looking forward to a quiet relaxing weekend. Having booked the hotel only a few weeks ago I would have hoped that I would have been told that there were 2 weddings on and no tables available in the restaurant. We have a 2 year old and the room was right next to the wedding party. Someone must have known and should have told us. Not impressed, and will never book here again.

As always a lovely carvery with good selection of vegetables!with the friendly staff and at such a good price who could ask for more!Just £3.95 plus a drink from the bar !such good value and keeping up the quality of the food !

Lovely stay at the hotel again, enjoyed the afternoon tea. Nice room on 2nd floor, very clean, lovely fluffy towels, only fault was the window in bathroom wouldn't open and it was a very hot day. Now a negative, we booked a table for 8pm for our two course meal, big mistake when they have functions on! We waited 25 mins to get the drinks we'd ordered and an hour for the starters, only to be then told they had run out of the salmon I'd ordered! I picked an alternative which arrived promptly, however we then waited a futher 45 mins for our mains. All in all we were in the restaurant for over two hours which did spoil our evening. Everyone in the restaurant was effected, can't fault the poor waiting staff, who were excellent, polite and didn't stress with the situation. We were offered some compensation in the form of having all our drinks wiped from the bill. The management really need to look at how they manage the restaurant alongside the functions going on in the hotel and maybe employ a few more staff. Having said all that we would still stay again.

Great selection of meals for the family also good vegetarian choices alongside the great carvery Easy to book and very reasonable Sunday meal prices Will come again the whole 9 of us Keep up the good work

Excellent food and service even though they were extremely busy. Waitress always had time to ask if we needed anything else. Just goes to show how popular they must be. Waitress coped brilliantly a credit to the hotel

An overnight stay and found the room( no.17) clean, comfortable and felt /smelt like it had been recently refurbished.Food was limited to breakfast which was very good with some excellent poached eggs from the chef and a very helpful and pleasant waitress.No noise problems the night I stayed there, in fact really quiet, but they do have a function room so probably best to check first if you are a light sleeper.

We booked 12 night 12-13th of April at this hotel First night wasn't great for me because I can hear a constant noise all night long like a fan noise or generator. However, next day I was given another room and I slept was so much better. First night we eat at their restaurant because we didn't want to go anywhere as we were tired. They had "eat as much as you like" ribs, wings and pork belly for £9 and that was fine for us. Not a posh dining but plenty and tasty especially the pork belly and ribs. The only criticism here would be that in the morning they had like breakfast brunch as it was pricey £15 but you could have eaten as much as you liked and probably quite varied. However, if in the morning you are like me, who likes her coffee most of all and lets say a croissant or 2 toasts and butter with jam, then perhaps they should have also an option where one can have that rather than such an extensive and expensive breakfast.

Friendly helpful staff. A choice of carvery or specials of which there were only two - pork chops or salmon . The carvery was 4 meats no crackling on offer with the pork. The meat was dry, the potatoes salty , the parsnips delicious . The vegetables were bland and some of the Yorkshire puddings under cooked. The salmon was tasty but the new potatoes were hard and the vegetables tasteless and I'm unsure what the sauce was. The puddings were good. We will not return

My partner and I stayed for one night after attending a function at the hotel. We paid way over the odds for the facilities and service we received. At £107 for the night (room only) we did not expect to be woken at 4am by a member of staff dragging tables around in the bar area below us. Hoping to be refreshed after a terrible night's sleep we found the bathroom had not been cleaned and the shower........(dribbling faucet more like) was less than acceptable. Upon checkout we informed the member of staff of our complaints and were met with what can only be described as an incredibly rude and abrupt response, suggesting that we should be more understanding of the night porter having to move "really big tables on his own". We were also told that we should have reported the shower and they could have found us another to use. Really? Guests should go to reception mid-shower and ask for another? That's the solution?! To be spoken to in this way and made to feel as though we shouldn't have raised our complaints is unacceptable at the least. I have stayed in better hotels for much less money and will not be staying again. If you want a reasonable night's sleep and to be treated like a human being - avoid.

very friendly staff. A good hotel in Norwich. The suite we had was excellent with huge bathroom, a kitchen area with tea and coffee making facilities. A seating area with large TV. I would definately reccommend this hotel.

Had a great stay with a Black Friday deal...so worth the money! The staff were very friendly and couldn't do enough to help! It's in a good position to go into the City Centre. Room was very clean, comfy beds and had everything you need. Will definitely be going back!

We had a lovely time at the party and my niece enjoyed it very much. The food was lovely and there was plenty to go around. Friendly staff and service. I would perhaps suggest a Prince as well as Belle and Cinderella but otherwise no complaints at all. Hopefully book to go to another one if it organised. Thank you

We attended The Oaklands this weekend for our daughters wedding in the Marquee. We weren't entirely sure what to expect having read mixed reviews but our experience was just wonderful. Shelby was amazing in helping us set everything up for an early wedding, and nothing was too much trouble for her and her staff. The staff were friendly and helpful, attentive and professional. The food was great and good choice of beverages. Linda on reception, and her husband as master of ceremonies, made us feel so welcome as soon as we arrived. We can't thank you enough for making our daughters day so special and arranging the sunshine too!

Stayed here for 1 night as I often work in the area . I got a really cheap room as the normal big brand hotel I stay at was fully booked . I will always try this hotel first in the future and not for the price . It is great to see that family run hotels. with a good old fashion homely feel are still out there . Nothing is too much trouble for any of the staff. On check in the receptionist had me laughing from the minute I approached the desk , she even involved her boss , who was also very friendly . I had a all you can eat curry which was delicious and well worth £9 , which the waiter recommended to me . The restaurant team were efficient and very friendly and the waiter was singing away whilst working , also making other diners laugh . Great to see staff enjoying their work , this really makes a difference to the whole feel of the place . I later found out that the waiter and receptionist were married and the manager was superb in promoting this . 5 * family run hotel with budget prices . A real must .

Room was quite small but okay. Bed was not particularly comfortable & the room we had must have been located in the noisiest part of the hotel, as we heard every noise on the stairs, corridor & room above. Also, we were woken early one morning to the sound of beer barrels being rolled into the hotel from the car park. On the subject of WiFi - there was none. My partner asked on several occasions why there was no Internet & were told it was being looked at. However it never got sorted in the 3 days we were there. Breakfast was average but was improved by Jo who served us. She was lovely and chatty and gave us some tips on places to visit in Norwich. Can't say I would recommend this hotel. Shame really as we usually like Best Western.

The carvery was great value for money at only £3.95 if you have a drink lovely and hot and very tasty meat melted in your mouth also home made Yorkshire's, not a Auntie Bessie in site. Staff very professional and polite always cleaning well done

Food was okay and so was the service, I would recommend and come back myself but it wasn't anything out of the ordinary. Can't really complain for the price though. When I come back I will have to try something from the menu rather than having the carvery

Had a party for my husband's 65th birthday. Was fantastic. We had to postpone for a week because of the snow. They went out of their way to reorganize for the following week. Food was delicious and accommodation was excellent. Highly recommended.

A lovely night away, was upgraded to a lodge free of charge, beautifully spacious, clean and a excellent spa bath. Would like to go back, and will recommend to others. The food we had was excellent, an afternoon tea, evening meal and a lovely breakfast. Staff very friendly and accommodating.

One of the best hotels in England for a long weekend to even longer. Extremely helpful team who go out of their way to make your stay extra special. Marvellous good food with excellent service. I will certainly return this Summer.

I've never done this before but here we go, I recently stayed at the best western Oakland's hotel in Norwich City few weeks ago and all me and my wife can say is praise for the hotel and staff. After having a little bit of trouble finding the place (I was the navigator) we were greeted by a very pleasant receptionist who directed us to our room, the “room” being essentially a nice one bed flat, which was clean and tidy. Having gotten back from our daughters baby shower, we decided to roam into the bar, for some drinks and dinner. Aside from the lovely atmosphere and slight bustle (it was quite busy), we were warmly welcomed by a young gent called Jack. After we got some drinks and my wife did her swooning, we decided to go into the restaurant and have dinner. I had the a burger and Kathy had the salmon, it took about 20/30 minutes and was OK, nothing special but was fine. The waitress we had was polite and hardworking so we were more than happy with the service we received. After dinner my wife went back to the room and I went back into the bar to have one more drink before going back to the room. Fortunately, I didn't make it back to the room for another 2.5 hours!! I'm entirely sure I would have gone back sooner if it wasn't for Jack!! He is such a credit to the place with his charm and banter, we talked about everything from whiskey to football to current affairs. Quite frankly, he's the best bartender I've ever seen in my life and, after several pints, a few perfect old fashions and a scotch tour (there's literally nothing that man doesn't know); we, begrudgingly, parted ways for me to return to the room. After a telling off from my missus, we relaxed in front of the rather large TV and shortly went to sleep. There was very little noise, and the bed was extremely comfy. We both showered in a very modern and stylish bathroom and headed into the restaurant for breakfast. I had a huge fry up and my wife had a croissant, both of which were tasty, with plenty of coffee to wash it down thanks to Jo. We checked out with ease and headed home with nothing but good things to say about the Best Western Plus Oakland's Hotel.

Well good and bad! stopped overnight as we were attending a wedding reception. Let me start with the good points, there are lots! A wonderful layout, and I should imagine a tip top place to go to in the summer as they have a superb outdoor area. The wedding meal, well I think it was one of the best I have had at any large catering event, where we all eat together. All three courses very well presented, and cooked well and hot, so well done catering staff at Oaklands. The breakfast also was of a very good standard, maybe a tad too much apple in the fresh fruit, but that's being picky! If you are considering having an event here then go for it. marquee was warm, which is a bonus in February. Did think the evening buffet was brought out a tad early, it was stood on the table for I would guess over 3 hours, near to the heater inlets, but saying that I ate some and was ok!. The down part, accommodation was not good value for money. Room was close to kitchen extractors, left a kitchen smell in your room. The shower provided warm, luke warm water for 3 minutes or so, had to run the bath to get soap off!. One side of the bed was against a sloping roof, you could not get out of the bed and stand upright......we did check rooms other members of our family booked, we did think as we booked first they would book out the best first? not so. In my opinion do not book rooms 33 - 40 I think it was.all that wing suffered from kitchen smells, and seemed as though they required updating............Shame about the room as it spoilt a really nice hotel.

We had a family meal here , I was reluctant to book as our previous experience wasn't good . But the waiter was exceptional. We had a few issues to start with. Our meals were over cooked but he soon fixed it and even turned the whole atmosphere around with his upbeat sense of honour . A real credit to the Oaklands, a good choice on your new recruit. Just what the Oaklands needed . Great customer service where nothing's too much . I will definitely return especially if we will be served by this waiter.

Stayed on a Sunday while working in norwich, the room was clean and comfortable lots of parking and the food was good, the drinks at the bar seem expensive but otherwise a good night stay, will return when next working in Norwich

Four of us went for lunch after booking a table. I'd looked at the menu on the website which gave a reasonably extensive menu at 12.95 for 3 courses which seemed good value. When we got there we waited for around 10 minutes to be seated. The menu was much reduced in scope from what was advertised on the website but was exceptionally cheap at £2 for the starter and desert and £2.95 for a main. We all had the carvery which was tasty with a good selection of veg. The main issue we had was with the service. There were very few staff to cover the restaurant. After waiting to get seated, we then had to wait for another 15 minutes for the drinks order. As we had gone for the carvery, we didn't have to wait for our mains. We intended on having a dessert but after another 15 minutes without managing to attract anyones eye (on the rare occasion anyone was near) we gave up and I paid at the bar. At under £20 for 4 drinks and 4 carveries, it was exceptional value but the service let it down.

The place is terrible honestly take my word for it do not book here it's a rip of and the prices for drinks well London prices are probably cheaper and the food is crap and all the food sat on folding tables before it got served up the place needs closing down

Staying here for a few months and haven't got a bad word to say about the place. The staff are very polite and friendly Jack and Malcolm have made my stay very pleasant and I would stay here again. Jack is the one of the best bar tenders I have met and he is very good at his job.

I have just come back from a black Friday deal, staying on a Saturday night at the Oaklands hotel. We are a group of 12 ladies, celebrating birthdays ages ranging from 35 to 60. Firstly we got upgraded to the outside apartments, they were superb. The cleanliness of the rooms was first class. The food was excellent, so well cooked, piping hot and a great choice. A very up to date menu also.The restaurant service was so attentive, they worked so swiftly and so polite. The bar service was so slick, cocktails were excellent. The reservations team, are lovely, so welcoming and polite. We did have a little issue with one of the rooms heating but this was dealt with promptly and professionally. Complimentary drinks was provided for the minor inconvenience. The hotel is in a great location for the city centre, we went into the city after dinner and the taxi was £8 for 4 people one way., also the same getting back. If you are looking for a great hotel at great prices, go to the Oaklands, well worth a visit. 12 very happy people. Thank you to all the Oaklands staff, great team effort and Management.

Well folks what can I say! Ive only given this one star because I couldn't give zero or less..what a night but for all the wrong reasons.. Made Fawlty towers look a class Act! ..£44 for a second rate disco with less than mediocre food! ..like dancing in someone's front room on a school night..the food was such a low standard that it was only fit for pigs but in fairness pigs would probably have been cared for better. We shared a room with a large party of pensioners who were visiting thursford on a much looked forward to trip out. They were treated as badly if not worse than us..shame on you! ..the food was dire and rationed..the setting no better..a cold marquee attached to the side of the main building with the ambience of a funeral parlour. I'm sure the DJ fell asleep at one point he appeared to be enjoying the evening as much as us. Upon voicing our disappointment, we were fobbed off with a bottle of wine and promises of a partial refund. Well 4 weeks, 4 emails and a phone call (to a machine) later we are still waiting! This place is a joke ..avoid at all costs!

My husband spent all morning singing the praises of this place and trying to persuade me to go there for lunch. I very reluctantly agreed after finding it gloomy previously. He convinced me that it had had a facelift and the food was amazing. Unfortunately we didn't stay long enough to find out. Sticky floors and broken glass in the restaurant along with the remnants of the new year's party the night before left us questioning the cleanliness and we left 5 minutes after arriving.

My partner and I had a lovely, relaxing time here at Oaklands over the Christmas period. Staff very accommodating as I am a guide dog owner, easy to find on bus routes too. But expect a short walk up a hill. The food was amazing throughout and the dining area was very clean. To be honest the coffee was amazing and reasonably priced. Bedrooms spacious and quiet (you can hear people wandering but that's expected), beds are a little uncomfortable but that could be our taste in beds. Oh and the wonderful jacuzzi bath - now that made it so much worth it. Only issue was the power kept cutting out in room Christmas Day but I think that was a minor inconvenience.

We visited this hotel for a two night Christmas break and what an amazing two nights we had! It's the first time we have done anything like this and would be happy to do it again next year. Staff, food and accommodation were brilliant- the staff were exceptional, everything was just lovely. Our Christmas lunch was lovely even though they were so busy, we didn't feel rushed and it was lovely and hot - well done to everyone who worked over Christmas you are all truly amazing ??

Had our works Christmas party on Saturday, and we all had a great night, staff couldn't do enough was a superb atmosphere! Will be booking them for next year 100%! Food was good for the meal well priced music was surprisingly decent as well

Visited the Oak Hotel for 2 nights as part of a coach tour while also going to see the Thursford Christmas spectacular. The hotel has received mixed reviews and real Jekyll and Hyde persona. We saw them both during the stay. On arrival reception was excellent, they came onto the bus and handed out envelopes with keys and information so we were quickly into our rooms. The rooms were good; warm, spacious, tea and coffee making facilities, nice bathroom. The meal on the first evening was enjoyable. It was Christmas and the Hotel does cater for parties, it's part of their signage, and the disco could be heard through the Hotel but as I am not a light sleeper, when returning to the room was soon able to drop off to sleep. Breakfast was reasonable, but some items ran out and it took a little while to find staff and have it replenished. Housekeeping were efficient, polite and helpful. On the Saturday night, we were told we would be joining the 90s and noughties buffet in the marquee. The buffet was turkey or tuna roll, ciabatta with cream cheese and spinach, warm ham, chicken wings and a mixed salad, 10 or so large plates on a round table, 100 guests, not the best organisation or buffet on a cold night. After complaints, chips, hot potatoes, chicken strips and a bowl of mixed veg (sprouts, carrots… must have been a spare dish from the wedding party also going on else where) arrived. Not the best approach to win return business. The staff in the morning at checkout were very apologetic about the evening events. The problem for this Hotel is that there is plenty of competition, even a Premier Inn just along the road. If it is a Party Hotel, it needs to be a lot better/inventive on its buffet. For us we saw both sides, for the Hotel we will not be returning.

Had a fantastic pre-Christmas evening with friends at the Michael Buble tribute night. Food was good, great service from Hollie & her colleagues, could not do enough for us, the mix of Christmas hits & cover songs made for a really entertaining evening. Would highly recommend this event next year.

I have been to The Best Western plus Oaklands Hotel for meals, events and stayed in the hotel. Its a lovely place with a great team of helpful staff I would 100% recommend a visit. Thank you all very much

attended a dinner dance Saturday night and we booked to stay too. Room was spacious, clean and modern. Our room overlooked the terrace giving us a lovely view of the Christmas tree and lights - made us feel festive! We met friends who joined us on Saturday night - food was good and we had a great night. Good choice of breakfast in the morning. Staff were friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend.

20 of us booked a Christmas Dinner for last night. On arrival the small bar had a crowd of people waiting to be served. The dinner was dire, and the veggie option had to be returned to the kitchen. When it resurfaced the others had all finished, and was still cool and unpalatable. It was clear that other diners were complaining across the room. But apart from the food and drink the atmosphere seemed quite pleasant.

Was booked into Oakland Hotel after my booking for elsewhere was cocked up. Lovely welcome by reception staff. The room was small but spacious enough. The room was warm but probably too warm for some but ok for me. Tea tray well stocked along with toiletries in the bathroom. Bed was very comfortable. Niggles:- TV wall bracket is too big for the TV with bits popping out over the top of TV and I hate surface trunking as it looks cheap and an afterthought. The shower very noisy but I think that's because the room was on the second floor and the water needs a pump to add pressure. Bathroom was tight but manageable but anyone on the large side might have issues. I would stay again though.

Nothing was too much trouble, staff were willing to chat, afternoon tea with the Brat Pack was amazing, disappointed with the evening restaurant menu - not much choice however quality and quantity could not be faulted

Needed a room for the night and the Oaklands came to mind. As we booked through Booking.com it was a simple task. On arrival we were checked in with ease from a happy receptionist. The room was rather small but could not fault the cleanliness or the large amount of Tea and Coffee facilities. Overall a nice little Hotel in a rural part of the City and not too far out. There are local pubs and eateries if you don't fancy the menu.

We had a wonderful time at the Oaklands, the staff are lovely and the hotel itself is very nice. On arrival we were upgraded to one of their beautiful lodges, we had only booked a double room so we were very pleased. I think this happened due to them hosting Christmas Parties all weekend and they kept us away from the noise which was a really good idea. The problem we had was the key cards didn't work a few times and we had to walk to reception in the cold which wasn't ideal plus the area where the lodges are, are not very well lit. The Lodge was lovely with a huge living room, lovely bedroom and a nice bathroom with a jetted tub. We were so pleased with the room we would book a lodge in the summer time. The area is nice but not really walkable to the centre its about 45 minutes walk away perhaps in the summer you could, the bus is really easy and regular and a taxi for us coming home at night was £8.50 which is pretty normal. All in all we had a fantastic stay and we are hoping to visit again

I was given a suite, which required a walk in the rain across some muddy grass (not enough stepping stones) The wifi wasn't working and my fone didn't have a good enough signal to hotdmspot. Doh. I went across to reception, in the morning and waited 15 minutes, pressing the bell. No response. In frustration, I went to the kitchen.. And found x2 staff 'chatting'. Service was then restored. But still no WiFi. The room I had was adjacent to a noisy road, which I had to listen to, as I had to open the windows... The room was steering, stiflingly hot. Breakfast was, eventually and excellent affair. Give the morning staff a kick, alow the heating to be adjusted and I would go again... Just give a room though.. In and out the rain is rubbish... Or perhaps a covered walkway!!

Firstly, the satff on arrival where excellent. Nice lady booked me in and a very helpful member of staff sorted out a door keycard problem even though I suspect she was just about to go home. Room well appointed and very very clean. Nice big Tv, complimentary tea and coffee, tissues, shampoos in bathroom. Free wifi which works ! So why only average rating ? The noise from the party that was being held in the tent erected for functions. Yes, hotels can make money from functions but they need to be able to host them away from the main building. Having to stay awake until the disco is switched off at midnight is not acceptable. Car park was also packed with function guests which made my late evening check in a problem as I had to squeeze my vehicle in to a tight corner. Perhaps some reserved spaces for guests staying overnight.

Very disappointing. Arrived on a very windy evening to find that our tables were in a marquee! Not ideal at the end of November. Eventually someone deemed to flick a switch for some heat. This was short lived but nevertheless welcome. The food when it was finally served to table 5 was mediocre. The beef was ok but others were served cold cod loin and Thai green curry soup! The vegetables consisted of one small fondant potato accompanied by 6 Chardonnay carrots which were unpeeled and still had long roots and the tops attached. I trust they'd been washed! The bar staff were untrained in measuring and pouring 175 ml of wine without spillage then wanted to charge £11.10 for the wine and a half pint shandy! It was an awful meal in most uncomfortable surroundings. Not to be repeated.

Stayed for 2 nights while away for work. Bedroom was fine apart from how hot it was, I had the radiator switched off and window open and it was still boiling hot. Spoke to another person staying and he also said how hot the bedrooms were. Staff were all very nice, but a big shout out to Kieran who worked in the bar, he was so pleasant and such a great sense of humour, he's a credit to Oaklands Hotel.

Visited at 4pm on off chance of getting a table. Seated straight away even though Restaurant was very busy, all food constantly being replenished. Best carvery I've had there. Food was delicious. Staff very pleasant. Can highly recommend ??

Our room was fine and well maintained, with a comfortable bed. Breakfast was very mixed. On the first morning they kept running out of various key elements eg bread, bacon, fried eggs. Dinner was pre booked and ok. The big problem with this hotel is that it hosts lots of parties and weddings. These mean at least one disco, depending on how many events are on. The music stops at midnight but that's tough if you're needing to sleep before then. After the music stops there is no guarantee that the party people are at all considerate of guests who have paid good money to sleep in the hotel. Raucous noise can continue into the wee small hours with the staff apparently unable to stop it. The mainly quite young staff tried their best one night we were there but were overwhelmed. There is also a parking issue at this hotel. The car park access is up a slope via a fairly narrow road. If cars park on this slope it is a major headache. Again the hotel staff seem unable to prevent such cavalier parking even though it can make access impossible for an emergency vehicle.