We stayed at Ribby Hall for a family wedding recently. Having booked months in advance, we were a bit blase about it and had forgotten what was on offer.
All family members were all very impressed. Between us, we'd booked 4 cottages, each of which was fitted to a very high standard, clean and warm on arrival. The cottages are nicely spaced apart with green areas between them.
There's a good choice of restaurants, a leisure centre with kids and adults pool and lots of other things to do. Because of the wedding we didn't do much other than spend time with family in the restaurant and cafe.
The bistro was very accommodating given we attended as a party of 20, the food was good, hot and served quickly. Afterwards we retired to the upstairs lounge which, given it was next to a soft play area was the ideal place for a coffee and family catch up. Even better for two of the girls, one of the staff 'entertained' them by getting them to help her with her chores.
As a wedding venue it was fine but not outstanding. Unfortunatly the wedding food was poor; cheap cuts of beef and overcooked vegetables. We understood family who live locally that Ribby Hall's excellent chef Nigel Smith recently moved from wedding catering into the restaurant on site. Shame he took his discipline and high standards with him.
We also visited the pool, which the kids enjoyed with shallow water, a couple of slides and three hot tubs.
There's a good shop with daily essentials and a wide range of gifts and speciality foods. Probably expensive for everyday shopping, its a good option for morning bread, croissants and treats.
All in, we think Ribby Hall is very well organised for families. As it was Autumn it wasn't busy although it looks like there were plenty of visitors. read more