Vale Resort

Negative experience: This hotel was good back in 2022 I love staying here with the castle and lake... yet they haven't buff up the place as it should for a 4 star hotel. I've now stayed here again 2024 in December okay the place looks lush for Christmas buh for further detail for a 4 star hotel this is apaling I fell like it a 3 star or even 2 there are bare marks on the carpet dust on the light and funichure , let alone the clean shape work in the bathroom yh ok they gone to the above for the crimbo but yet it always dirty and need to clean out bath and shower including shower glass it's disgusting how u can say your a 4 star hotel when your clearly not!!

Fantastic experience: Love the Vale resort stayed 23/11/24 great place to stay brilliant staff and service and great food . My only complaint is that they have stopped doing the triple cooked chunky chip (jenga chips I call them) think these chips are a trade mark for the Vale and should restart doing them again, I'm sure I'm not the only one to say this. So come on the Vale jenga chips please .

Positive experience: Unless you’re into golf, this is not likely to appeal to you. Stayed upon a recommendation and found the food about average/mediocre (dinner was nice, lunch was a complete loss) though not great value for money. Rooms were dated and tired and more in par for an Ibis or Premier Inn than a 4 star resort. They really need refreshing. Breakfast was, again, mediocre. We had a ground floor room that opened onto a patio which had plantings that had seen better days. In short, this is definitely not a 4 Star resort, but more a spartan 3 Star hotel with minimal onsite services and staff without local knowledge, and I could stay at a thousand places like that for half the price.

Negative experience: Spa / pool area miserable, in need of refurbishment. Gym well equipped and reception staff welcoming. Changing rooms damaged and dirty. Not an exclusive / luxurious place, no better than a recreation centre but costs £140 a month for two people. Cancelled membership which was an ordeal, bunch of morons employed. Better gyms available in Bridgend and Cardiff

Negative experience: The rooms could do with a touch up. Chipped paint and damaged walls everywhere. Low quality TV and amenities in the room. We ate in the bar, food was cheap, greasy and not very tasty. I would suggest eating somewhere else before staying here. However the breakfast was fantastic.

Positive experience: Nice hotel, large rooms and even had a separate bath. My only complaints would be the lighting within the room - the light switch was quite far away from the door and I arrived in the dark so the door shut, i was in the dark and and I couldn't find the switch (which turned out to then be that it needed the room card). Also there was only 2 controls - bathroom or room, this meant when i went to the loo in the night, I had to switch the main bathroom light on which was very bright and ruined my nights sleep. The other issue was the kettle was in the wardrobe, so I didn't find it until I left. Was also surprised that they charge for any coffee that needs a machine at breakfast. The breakfast was good, lots of choice and dietary requirements catered for. The staff was pleasant, though i struggled to understand the gentleman who only spoke to me in Welsh.

Positive experience: Played on the National Course only. Facilities seem great. Got everything you need and want. Great staff. Accommodating shop pros. However, probably the wettest and squelchiest golf course I have ever been to. The main course needs a significant investment in its irrigation and drainage. There wasn’t a foot I placed on the course that didn’t squelch. I do expect it don’t get me wrong but not everywhere. Literally,everywhere. I have been to cheaper lesser courses after a week of torrential rain and it has been firmer.

Fantastic experience: One of the best places for vacation! Very quite

Positive experience: Lovely place with everything you need for a good quality stay. My room was massive and had a lovely patio. It felt private and the staff were very helpful too. Overall a really great place.

Fantastic experience: We had a great workshop event here, super easy to book and navigate attendees. The tables were set up perfectly, food and snacks were great. Recommend for work events, really helpful staff.

Fantastic experience: This hotel was stunning. The staff were super helpful, rooms were sizable with both bath and shower. The breakfast was okay with a small selection for anyone with dietary requirements. There are plenty of extras to do in the spa along with some sports facilities. I would definitely stay again.

Positive experience: Big room with a great view, also very quiet. Nice restaurant and bar

Negative experience: Cameras weren't allowed but the spa is really quite grim!! Spa days aren't cheap and, for your hard earned money, you get to look at dead flies littering the floor, cobwebs, mold and damp over clearly never cleaned/maintained windows/doors that look out onto the views. Don't believe me, go lay on the chairs near the steam room! There is obvious rust and neglect around the steamroom door and the steps into the jacuzzi. As for the door frame on the sauna, pause to actually look and you'll see it looks like it's been in a car crash! Maintenance and upkeep are terrible. Given the amount of money they charge, this was anything but luxury. They don't have anywhere near enough loungers available for the number of guests in the jacuzzi area. They also need to review the (tiny!!) slippers they provide to spa guests as they've absolutely lethal on wet floors. If three lads in our group all almost slip into their rears on the floors down there, it's an accident waiting to happen! The massage treatment itself was nice (shame no couples rooms were available or offered as have been at other spas) but overall, was this value for money or lived up to the ratings? Absolutely not. It needs a REALLY good clean and maintenance.

Positive experience: Beautiful rooms beautiful food but found the staff lacking in attention to detail. Both front desk and restaurant seemed to have new trainees. I suppose you have to start somewhere

Positive experience: Room really needed updating as paint flaking off the skirting boards . Also lack of towels in the room we had

Negative experience: So disappointed on what should have been a magical 18th birthday family celebration. Was hoping after the chaos of the lack of advice and guidance when booking and being bounced back and for with clearly no joined up thinking, that the actual experience would be good! Sadly not! Had to have room re cleaned after toe nail clippings left on floor. Charged over £400 at check out despite booking and paying in advance. This was resolved thankfully. Restaurant was OK, food OK - £82 for a tomahawk steak with no veg or potatoes! Calamari was luke warm. Bar staff surly and rude. Customer service not evident! Peter in the distillery was amazing and the spa staff were a delight, the taxi driver who was one of the original four staff who did the shuttle to the distillery was fabulous. The rest was horrific! We won’t be returning!!!! Such a shame this is the memory we have of celebrating our son’s birthday!

Fantastic experience: The room was very nice. food was OK. The breakfast buffet could have been hotter by the time you sat to eat it it was just warm. The golf courses were very good.

Negative experience: Booked the twilight spa package for my mum as she’s having a major operation this week. We’ve booked the afternoon spa packages several times and all have been great alongside the buffet lunches they provide! Everything went well until we got to the restaurant Vale Grill, we dressed up expecting a posh evening meal and were the only 2 people there everyone else was sat in he bar having meals! The waitress was a lovely woman and very accommodating! When sitting at our table I took note of the stains and crumbs all over my chair I was sat on, after previously noting the cobwebs around the jacuzzi area! It took 2 chefs to cook the most blandest food I have ever been served. The menu provided consisted of mostly bread for starters and dessert was cheese, ice cream or butterscotch pudding. The lack of variety was shocking! I had come straight from work so forced myself to eat the breadstick, stale meats and bread with freezing cold garlic butter on for starters. My mother and I were in total disbelief when our main was served!! I advised the waitress we wouldn’t eat our mains and were going o have a bar meal which she arranged for us free of charge! When the bar meal arrived my burger was soaked in grease to the point where it would drip all over my plate when I picked it up. I attempted to eat what I could of it as was soo hungry but will never ever recommend nor eat in the bar or grill ever again, absolutely shocking!!

Fantastic experience: Went for a Golden wedding anniversary and everyone had the time of their lives. Great food, service and setting.

Negative experience: Stopped here to kill some time whilst waiting for someone so thought I would have a bacon bap and a coffee in the golfers cafe/restaurant service was good with friendly staff however Bacon Bap served was below average for a 5star resort Bacon served in a supermarket bought bap....The type of Bap you would get at one of these roadside mobile shacks. Come on Vale you can do better than that surely for £10.How about a nice Brioche Bun or Quality Bread. Sorry for the below par review but if the cap fits. Like I said staff were friendly.

Fantastic experience: Great place to go for golf course was in fantastic condition set in a beautiful location the hotel was top notch food was superb very friendly and helpful staff course Marshall was a great character and asset to the golf course well worth a visit you won't be disappointed

Positive experience: Rooms used to be lovely but are looking a little tired now.

Positive experience: Came for a golf mini break. We have come to the Vale Resort several times previously. It has now become a victim of the cost of living crisis. Drinks and food are very expensive. We were ready for this but what we found unacceptable is that you pay £11 for one pint of lager and a medium sized bowl of chips and they give you condiments from unbranded, inferior, cheap and really crappy tasting suppliers. When we spend that amount of money we expect Heinz, Colemans, Hellmans and Sarsens. After all, that’s what Wetherspoons give you.

Positive experience: Lovely stay here for a birthday gift. Spa/gym/pool facilities & massage treatments were great. Had use of the spa and afternoon tea which we both enjoyed! Hotel room looked newly updated and had lovely views of the on-site golf course. Breakfast was one of the nicest breakfasts we've had at a hotel, cooked beautifully. Evening meal was nice but not amazing, but was included in our stay and nothing major to really complain about... maybe just our choice of meals. Great place to stay and look forward to staying here again in the future!

Positive experience: Beautiful setting. I visited on 2 occasions. Once for Sunday lunch which was delicious and again from afternoon tea, which was also nice. Staff friendly. I will revisit.

Fantastic experience: Lovely gift from our children for our 40th wedding anniversary, we will be back ❤️

Fantastic experience: Had a spa day& afternoon tea for my daughters Hen do. It was perfect, really enjoyed it.

Positive experience: Lovely hotel and quiet grounds. Unfortunately really busy with 2 large wedding parties. Leisure facilities busy with school holidays. Steam room out of order. Food tasty, room service excellent. Staff pleasant.

Fantastic experience: A brillaint resort that has everything you need. We went there for golf mainly but used the resort as well. Staff were brilliant and rooms very good.

Fantastic experience: Lovely stay for the eisteddfod. Spa also excellent.

Fantastic experience: Lovely hotel, came for a golf break. Thoroughly enjoyed the 2 courses & the luxury of the hotel.

Positive experience: Some excellent touches, some not. I had very high expectations, some met, some exceeded, some disappointment. The good Excellent surroundings with views of rolling countryside and Wales sports training facilities. Pristine golf course, "feels" like a top notch resort. Spa massage was excellent. Spa facilities itself were good (pool, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, outside patio area when sunny) but could do with a little more maintenance (see later). Bottle of chilled wine was waiting in our room which we enjoyed while sitting on the balcony overlooking the golf course. Huge executve suite room and well done out bathroom. The not so good A little tired in places (rust, broken ceiling tiles, a few obvious remants of leaks) but nothing major. Could do with some fixes/updating. Notably it is 25th Anniversary of the resort and some bits looked possibly "original" and in need of a minor facelift/refresh Sauna was unavailable during our visit (OK that happens), steam room was on but not really much steam/heat so just like sitting in a warm room with occasional puff of steam. Seemed to be set to a low temperature (?) I normally don't/can't spend more than 15/20 mins in these but could have sat in here all day. Jacuzzi was also only luke warm. Service was a little limited. 10 min waits to sit down for both dinner and breakfast as no one was seating guests even though they were told to wait. Was asked if we were there for any special occasion both at booking and check in. Notified on both cases it was our wedding anniversary. Many places do a little treat plate with dinner or something. Don't expect anything and got nothing but why ask if you aren't going to do anything with it? Dinner was pretty decent without being outstanding. Breakfast less so. Again not bad, just OK rather than great. Breakfast looked good but was very salty and a little tasteless. Surprising given the way it looked so good with a wide variety and plenty of. The bad Went for our anniversary. By 10pm they were unable to do anything other than straighforward drinks. Apparently the cocktail bar person had gone home and we were invited to go to the other bar for more mainstream drinks. I thought better of a resort for special occasion at 10pm on a Saturday night. Also, tried to charge me too much on leaving. Signed a chit for some ~ £30 of extras but on leaving it was presented to be over £70. Felt sorry for the receptionist who could see it was wrong but she struggled to be able to do much about it with what the system provided. She did successfully after 10-15 mins of trying. Thanks for sorting that. None of these were real spoilers, just dented it from being the level of experience I expected. All importantly would I go back, as a venue and a location yes, for the food and service, possibly not. It has lowered my opinion (a little) of it as a "luxury" resort. I have definitely been to some higher quality places. All being said it overall would be 7 or 8 out of 10 rather than a 9 or 10

Negative experience: Golf course is every nice well looked after . How ever the gym and the main entrance is every run down . The hole pace needs doing up and I don’t think it’s worth £80 a month for membership. Hopefully the place gets new face lift

Negative experience: Five star reviews here and on trip advisor must be bots or this hotel is a two tier system. We arrived at the hotel around 4.30, at the front desk our reservation couldn’t be found?. Whilst waiting for around 10 minutes, they finally say ok your in the book but you unfortunately you haven’t been put on the system!. So we then have to fill out form even though we had booked over 10 days in advance. The room on first impressions was extremely large but dated and felt stale like it hadn’t been cleaned for a while, almost like a backup room. We then notice no single bed only a double and we had our youngest son with us and we had booked a single and a double family room. We had to wait for another staff member to come and to make the single portable bed. He noticed there was no tea, coffee and biscuits so he said he would get some we also explained the AC wasn’t working and it was extremely hot that day. He returned with biscuits etc unfortunately no spoon and we only realised after he had left, the AC finally turned on. The whole situation took over an hour so by this time we were hungry and instead of leaving the hotel for food around 4.45 we were leaving at 5.45. There was a massive Asian wedding taking place and we were possibly an after thought, cars and people everywhere. The room was shabby and dated in places and things like the led lights at the base of the shower were actually coming out. The outside table and chairs was a nice feature but they were full of bird poo and looked like they hadn’t been cleaned in years, the windows were stinking no other word to describe it. Later on we decided to order room service and it got even worst from there, please see pic overcooked chicken, three tiny scoops of low quality icecream £23. My 12 year old son later on got ready for bed, in the space of half hour of tossing and turning he said he couldn’t sleep in the bed as it was too uncomfortable, so I thought he was over exaggerating but he most definitely wasn’t the bed was very uncomfortable, in the end he slept on the floor which is just not on. We went for breakfast around 9, they left us waiting for approx 10 minutes before asking us in, we could see people on outside tables and asked if we could sit there and we were told no there are no tables even though we could see two free we were then put on a 4 seater. Our son gets a little nauseous around a lot of Buffett food and being outside would have helped. The staff member then said someone will come around for your teas and coffees. My son at this point was really grumpy from not much sleep and feeling sick he didn’t eat anything at breakfast at all. The tea and coffee didn’t arrive and instead they were serving tables that had come in after us. You really can’t make it up. We then had to go and ask for tea and coffee, the lad who couldn’t have been older then 18 poured something in a mug and something else in a mug, when we asked which one was tea, he abruptly said “that’s the tea and plonked the cup over aggressively” Breakfast was nice in fairness and varied but we literally stayed for 15/20 minutes and left. We are not the complaining type of people, we are clean, friendly and tidy. My son is immaculately dressed and well behaved. We have stayed in 5 star top of the range hotels both in UK and abroad and we’ve also stayed in Premier inns and Travel lodges etc. By far this was the most unprofessional, unorganised hotel we have ever stayed in!. Ok granted we may have literally had everything go against us but it made us feel almost like it was a two tiered system to this hotel, the regulars I.e golfers, rugby players, business men etc and functions weddings etc. Then one level of room and service for the families who are second class. We are trying to put a complaint in to management, there is no complaint email on the site or head office address. It’s a real shame as when you arrive at the hotel and see all the decadence and facilities you believe your in for a fantastic stay, under whelmed is an under statement.

Positive experience: Rooms were brilliant. Food was underwhelming. The crab bisque was way too salty and they served a chocolate hazelnut torte which was basically an m&s melt in the middle pudding which they sold for £9. Definitely stay at the hotel again but won't be booking the restaurant

Fantastic experience: Had a fab spa day here with family. All 3 of us loved our treatments. I had the drift away massage with Mary and it was wonderful. The buffet style lunch that was part of our package was delicious too. The facilities including the pool, jacuzzi and outdoor seating/lounging area were perfect for a summers day and the views were just stunning. We will definitely be returning for another spa day soon.

Positive experience: Played golf on both courses. Clubhouse good. Hotel nice. Went on a dinner b and b basis but the menu was a cote d'hote which didn't change, so not much choice that way, but you can get an allowance for the bar menu, which consisted of, mainly burgers.

Fantastic experience: I had a back massage today at Vale Spa with Elisha, and it was a fantastic experience. Elisha gave a brilliant massage that left me feeling incredibly relaxed and rejuvenated. She was professional, attentive, and skilled, ensuring that every knot and area of tension was addressed. Additionally, she provided me with some excellent health-based recommendations, which I found very helpful. I highly recommend Elisha and Vale Spa for anyone looking for a top-notch massage experience. I'll definitely be returning!

Fantastic experience: Had a baby shower here in the conservatory, the room was set up lovely for 24 people having afternoon tea, staff were very friendly and accomadating , only criticism was the floor wasn't cleaned had sticky spills in different places , stayed on and sat out on the terrace with a bottle of prosecco , lovely setting will look forward to visiting again

Fantastic experience: Brilliant golf experience great service would highly recommend.

Negative experience: This is a tired hotel that was badly designed originally and has been left to rot. Service is non existent, rooms have holes in walls, paint missing and stains on carpets. Indoor pool is probably colder than the lake outside and there is thick green mold in the steam room. Honestly my advice is stay somewhere else, the only positive I can find is that the bathroom in the room is fairly modern and not that bad.

Positive experience: 4 chaps, 2 x rooms, dinner bed and breakfast, 2 x rounds of golf on 2 outstanding tracks, £220 pp. In today's climate, phenomenal value so a huge tick. The food was good and hearty,nothing mind blowing but nothing to complain about either. The gin from the on site distillery is probably the best gin I've ever had, better than Bombay, T7 and the myriad of gins I've consumed so pickup a bottle or two before you leave. We had rooms with patio doors onto a shared courtyard and the rooms were well equipped, impeccably clean and the shower and beds are top notch. You must book your dinner table before you arrive otherwise you'll be hunched over a coffee table, that was my only real let down. And you only get a £15 allowance which isn't enough for a dinner other than basic pasta, they should up this to £20 would be perfect. Lastly,breakfast, outstanding, don't miss it.

Negative experience: We stayed at the Vale resort the evening before and the night of our friends wedding in Hensol Castle. Initially we were excited about staying at The Vale because of the prestigious reputation of the hotel and we dint mind the hefty price per night as it was a treat. This was short lived. Our room was nothing special but it did have a lovely view from the French doors which opened out onto a balcony. The floor of the balcony was really weathered and dirty with debris and cobwebs all over. The French doors were ill fitting and let a continuous breeze through to sway the net curtains. The room itself was worn and dated with damaged furniture and dusty throughout. The gap between the bath top and the shower glass blind was big and it let a lovely water feature all over the bathroom floor. We did talk to reception about the dust in the room as my partner is allergic. Reception were very apologetic and promised the would get it seen too asap and will give my partner a complimentary bottle of Rose to compensate, which was very nice of them. However the room remained in the same condition as we left it on our return 2 hours later and surprisingly no wine was present. The next morning was wedding day, so went to breakfast and again nothing like we expected with a help yourself buffet. In fairness it had just enough selection to make it appeal to different tastes but as I said nothing special. Hensol Castle was a lovely venue with the immediate family members staying there. The rooms were very luxurious and oozed class. The day went amazingly and evening matched the day. In short if you stay in Hensol Castle you are in for a treat, but if you are staying in The Vale Resort then book a Premier Inn instead. On a side note all the disabled places in the car park were used up by large 4x4's driven by the golfers and not one of them had a mobility badge displayed.

Positive experience: This place was full of lairy groups of men. Food was ok in the evening and waiting staff were very good. Buffet breakfast was excellent - better than the Celtic Manor. I think this is a great place to go with your mates for sport but not so good to take the wife for a quiet night away....

Negative experience: Abysmal and Shambolic - arrived at 10:45 for some food having driven for 6 hours. Tried to order food from lunch menu, only menu available on bar. After attempting to order food then informed this was not possible. Ordered food from breakfast menu. At 11:15 food still had not arrived; update requested, was then made aware of problem. Refund requested not prepared to deal with shoddy service. Why wasn’t I offered food from the lunch menu after all it didn’t require the skills of Marco and co.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic facilities great food excellent service. Very clean and everything well maintained

Fantastic experience: Where do I start. I attended the Vale last weekend for a wedding breakfast. From start to finish the service the day was exceptional. The Manager ( Brian) and his staff went above and beyond to make it a fantastic day and a day we will never forget. The food, service, the attentive way they handled the emotional but happy day was perfect and the night followed suit. Could not fault anything and will definitely highly recommend to all. Thank you again, you are a fantastic team.

Fantastic experience: Stayed here for the first time recently. The hotel and grounds were absolutely immaculate, and the staff were outstanding. Each and every member of staff were dedicated and committed to customer service and went out of their way to ensure nothing was a problem at all. Highly recommend indeed, and I will certainly be staying here again in the future. Please keep up the impeccable standards everyone, it hasn't gone un-noticed at all and is clearly visible.

Fantastic experience: Great resort for a golf getaway, staff are genuinely lovely and the courses top notch although the national is long and tough if you can't hit it far. Bar prices a little on the steep side but all in all a wonderful trip was had by all in our group.

Positive experience: Not cheap, food was nice but extremely minimal, give me a proper bar meal anyday.

Fantastic experience: Excellent venue for a work meeting. Delicious lunch and good service.

Fantastic experience: We stayed on the 6th of June ,we were a party of four.while our husbands went to play golf we checked in,we were met by Phoebe and Lyndsey who were very friendly and helpful,must also say a big thank to Gareth very pleasant and helped us sort out a little problem will definitely be going back and highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Went to spa. Wonderful welcome with James and I would definitely go back to Elisha for a massage. Definitely a 10 out of 10 for the whole experience from staying there to the spa.

Fantastic experience: Just like to say on behalf of the TROGGS GOLF SOCIETY. what a fantastic venue to have our event at. The course. The food. The SERVICE has been exceptional. Everyone was amazing. From CARYS & LINZI on reception who were EXCEPTIONAL, really great. To RYHS TOMAS the Marshall. I didn’t get all the other girls names at the Golf bar. But whoever manages them should be very proud of their Team. Once again thankyou all. All 24 of us have had the best time.

Fantastic experience: All the staff were lovely, the room we had great views, the breakfast was excellent lot's of choice suiting everyone, we will definitely visit again.

Negative experience: We came for the Spa and were disappointed. The facilities are tired-looking and not functional (the steam room lets too much steam escape, and the jacuzzi was not even warm). While we were relaxing in the 'relaxation area' upstairs, some kind of Zumba class started in the pool downstairs blasting music which a) ruined the point of the relaxation area, and b) made the place feel like a public pool rather than a spa. The staff were friendly however and offered a free hour for this inconvenience, which we declined. The lunch they served was... passable.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic stay very clean really nice staff brilliant food and facilities Definitely going again

Fantastic experience: Had a really great experience in the spa today .Staff amazing food was lovely ,great for disabled people ,even the lady who done water aerobics was inviting to join her class . Thank you to everyone who made us feel welcome

Fantastic experience: We booked a great offer for DBB. We arrived early and we didn’t expect the room to be ready so we headed to the gym. It had plenty of machines, a good weights area and professional staff. Once we did our bit in the gym, we headed to the pool area, which again didn’t disappoint. The wait for the room was worth it, we had a garden room, it was probably one of the nicest rooms we’ve had in a long time. The doors opened out on to a terrace with a stunning Acer tree and a view of the golf course. The restaurant was bright, staff lovely and food excellent. Over all, if you’re looking a hotel break in South Wales, this is a far superior choice compared to the Celtic Manor, which I believe now relies on an old reputation.

Fantastic experience: Stayed here for two nights for a wedding. The room was lovely, food was excellent and reasonably priced. Staff were all amazing particularly the chap on reception. We will definitely be coming back for a spa day very soon.

Fantastic experience: We had an amazing weekend at the Vale Resort a few weeks ago! The whole resort was beautiful, with exceptional facilities! We had breakfast each morning and all the staff were friendly, efficient and welcoming. One lady, who I presume was the team leader, I think her name was Alana, was fantastic! The breakfast room was full with guests, but she was AMAZING with service, very friendly and attentive.

Fantastic experience: Staying at the Vale Resort for a few days while attending an exhibition. Gorgeous meals, clean rooms, lovely views and highly professional staff has made it a perfect experience. Love the complimentary shampoo and conditioner branded Era products left my hair silky and smooth

Fantastic experience: We had a wedding at hensol Castle lovely location the whole day was supper fabulous. On request we where shuttle bussed to and form as required back to the vale resort.

Fantastic experience: Stayed for a golfing weekend and considering the weather we have had course was in great condition. Staff all very friendly food was very nice thou fried eggs at breakfast bit under for my liking

Fantastic experience: Attended a corporate golf day and the venue was fantastic. A well organised day with lovely food after.

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience as always. The staff were so polite & accommodating. They went out of their way to ensure we had the best experience. I would highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: A great hotel with all the facilities you could need. Lovely restaurant too

Positive experience: Went here for a golf weekend in April. Rooms are excellent, food decent and it’s clearly a lovely place but the courses aren’t fit for Easter golf (2024). The Lakes course is nice enough but there were several temp greens out - so a bit disappointing but okay. The National is a disgrace - should be closed. How they let people play on that I will never know. I’m quite sure the courses are lively in the summer but they’re poor and awful right now.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic staff who went beyond their duty. Special mention to Carys who worked tirelessly to make our stay a great one

Positive experience: We came on a busy weekend as the Welsh rugby team tend to use this place as their pre match hotel. Spa facilities were quiet though which was nice.

Fantastic experience: Lovely food in the restaurant. Recommend the fruit crumble! Generous servings. The manager was really helpful reminding us about our deposit we must have forgotten about and the staff were polite and friendly.

Positive experience: It's ok. I can't say it's how I would expect a 4 star hotel to be. Lacks attention to detail. Breakfast was a joke! Waited about 20 minutes for a coffee and tea. The tea was appalling. You could have put it on your cornflakes! Juices were to serve yourself and not much of it, as they hardly ever got refilled. Not a great experience.

Negative experience: Awful stay and even worse customer service. Complained at reception and was told we could email but all 3 emails have been ignored ( even though we were told the general manager was working and would respond). We decided to book here as we had a rare chance to go away child free for the evening. After hearing for years that it was more upmarket we were expecting a lot more for the price we paid. If we paid £30 for the evening and it was a Travelodge then I wouldn't mind. But for £300 I really was expecting a luxurious stay. As soon as we entered our room, the box which holds the card to generate electricity kept falling off the wall. We eventually got it to balance but it kept falling off so trying to relax and watch TV wasn't great when we had to get up every so often to search for the key in the dark. My husband went to have a shower and noticed the towels had make up stains all over them, they were also falling apart with big holes to the centre layer and fraying everywhere. Not really what I was expecting from a prestigious hotel. The carpet throughout the room was also stained badly. He decided to call reception for clean towels and the phone in the room didn't work either so he had to go down to reception where he was just told "it's not good enough". They did bring new towels, which were again dirty and such big holes that the inside layer was coming out. The restaurant was a mixed bag. When we were seated the bright LED light above our table was flashing continuously and was unbearable. To be fair the waiter did go and turn it off but it obviously needs sorting. My 3 courses were all lovely but his seafood risotto main was dreadful. It was very bland and you could tell they had just chucked a bag of frozen mixed seafood in the rice. Again, from a premier restaurant at £20 for the main we were expecting fresh seafood. We also noticed that when the waiter was clearing the tables for the morning breakfast, he wasn't removing all the cutlery but inspecting if it looked clean/unused and if so was leaving it there and settling up for the morning. This turned my stomach to think that someone could have licked the fork (so it looked clean) and it was going to be used for breakfast service. Breakfast was ok, good choice for a hot buffet breakfast but not so much in terms of pastries etc. We also alerted the team that I have a pineapple allergy. Nothing was mentioned at breakfast but there were labeless actimel yogurt drinks there and we only noticed by chance that the one I had picked has a small picture of pineapple amongst the other fruit on the lid. There was no mention of anything containing pineapple when we arrived for breakfast like there was in the evening. Extremely disappointed and even more disappointed with the lack of communication after.

Negative experience: Would love to be able to give them a review but I've tried booking a spa day with a voucher I received for Christmas and it's actually impossible to book. I've phoned them and it goes straight to voicemail, I've emailed and it's been over a month with no reply and I've even tried getting in touch via social media because it's that difficult to book and still nothing. Don't waste your money.

Fantastic experience: We loved it here. The room was gorgeous, we had a standard double but it had a queen bed, a big walk in shower, a bath and a big window overlooking the golf club. The food was absolutely stunning, we had a mixed grill and beef brisket with mash and would 100% recommend both dishes! Breakfast was amazing too! The only thing my partner and I disagreed on was he liked the more casual/less 'posh' feel whereas for the price I'd rather the more posh feel which is definitely lacking here.. We also used the spa and had a full body massage and a facial. Although we enjoyed them I have had better massages in other places. The water beds in the spa relaxation room were lush. The pool is the warmest pool I think I've ever been in! Would definitely recommend and stay again.

Fantastic experience: My wife and i stayed here for one night on 8th Feb 24 using a gift voucher that we had bought for my wife's brother and his wife. He was going through intense cancer treatment and the idea was they could use the voucher when he was well enough again. Unfortunately he passed away and his wife gave the voucher back to us to use in his memory as she couldn't face going without him. Carys on reception checked us in on arrival. She was very friendly so my wife explained the circumstances around our stay. Carys was very saddened to hear what had happened and gave us a free upgrade to an executive room to try and make our stay that little bit more special. Each time we passed reception Carys would ask is how we were doing and if there was anything else we needed. At breakfast we were also approached by Gareth who was one of the managers who apologised for not catching up with us the previous evening as he had intended to arrange a wine tasting session for us. We were a bit apprehensive about this trip to the Vale because of the sad circumstances that led us there. However because of the friendliness of all the staff, in particular Carys and Gareth it made the experience that much better. The kind gestures and understanding of the staff allowed us to enjoy the stay that was meant for my brother in law and his wife. Nigel & Linda

Fantastic experience: Great hotel, rooms were very comfortable with a large bed and good size bathroom with separate bath and shower. Staff were friendly, I was there for a two day conference the food that was supplied was very good.

Negative experience: Regretting signing up for gym membership. Very very poor value for money, never seem to be any staff around. The pool has a strange smell by the end of the day if going for a late swim. Gym class times are not helpful if you work and despite signing up mainly for using the pool, every lunch time and every evening there’s a aqua class meaning only a couple of lanes actually open for swimming. Complete rip off. On top of that would be nice to be able to leave a towel on one of the chairs whilst using the pool but there’s someone there who thinks it’s ok to scatter their individual pieces of clothing around every chair around the pool. Strange! Contacted membership and they have not even bothered to reply to me when asking about times and some general queries. They have my money now so that’s it for them!!!!!!!!!!!

Positive experience: Stayed here just after Xmas. We stayed in a suite on the bottom level and it's was ok apart from hearing everyone's toilets above being flushed as the rooms used to be part of the old service tunnels underneath the hotel . The food was also just ok in the bar but the drinks selection is limited unless you want something from their new distillery which again isn't that good . We asked for a cocktail and was informed its premixed ones and worth it and someone had misplaced the mixer . The spa was alright massage was decent but the facilities haven't aged well and are in dire need of a makeover . It's not what it used to be . However on duty manager was very helpful and tried to help with the issues .

Positive experience: Booked to stay overnight with a round of golf on the Sunday. The rooms were smart and tidy. Service in general was fine and the staff were pleasant. The food in the grill was average with supplements for a cheeseboard containing quite small portions of cheese. Disappointing that our partners were only allowed to use the spa and facilities for one hour on the day of departure, bearing in mind that we couldn't book in until 3pm on the day of arrival. The Vale might want to review this? Unlikely to return unless purely for golf

Positive experience: Big and impersonal. Room cold and took a while to heat up. Staff were pleasant on reception. Restaurant average. Nice location but difficult access if approaching from Cowbridge through the lanes.

Positive experience: First time at the Vale Hotel. A few things need to be looked at. Upgraded and didn't have dressing gowns and slippers in the room. The phone didn't work so I couldn't ring reception, I had to walk to reception. Someone came to fix it, but it couldn't be done. The outside light didn't work. The shower mat (I took it off the towel rail) was full of makeup. The plus side of the room was very large, the facilities are fantastic. Restaurant food, beautiful, and transport to and from Hensol Castle is a fantastic idea, especially when doing the Gin Making and having a few gins.

Fantastic experience: My wife and Myself stayed here last weekend. We were very impressed particularly with Gareth Jones on reception. He was very welcoming, hospitable, friendly and helpful. Always greeted us when he saw us passing through reception. When we did have an issue with our room being close to the air conditioning units. He ensured we were moved to a quieter part of the hotel. A Credit to the hotel I would say

Fantastic experience: The Vale is just a wonderful place to be as it offers everything you could need. The facilities are superb, and as someone who was a leisure club member for 20 years, stayed there on numerous occasions, done dozens of weddings there as a wedding supplier, nights out, dinners and wedding fayres, I think I can speak from experience. Fabulous customer service as everyone is so helpful. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: The Vale resort is a lovely place to unwind and relax. The food is delicious and the beds are very comfy! I would like to say a special thank you to Garreth Jones who is such a credit to the team. Very friendly and nothing is too much of an ask. Thank you for making our stay a memorable one!

Fantastic experience: Exceptional stay at The Vale. The reception staff went above and beyond, providing a warm welcome and ensuring every need was met promptly. Especially a gentleman called Garreth Jones. Their professionalism and friendliness made our experience truly memorable. Top-notch service, wonderful facilities and I would highly recommend for both families, friends and couples.

Fantastic experience: My wife and I went here with another couple for New Years Eve. Had a 5 course meal with welcome drinks and horderves before entering dining area. Staff didn't come round often with horderves so we didn't have many. The meal itself was excellent but menu choice was limited. The band were good and enjoyed the evening. The room was clean and comfortable. The breakfast was excellent with good choice on the buffet from full cooked food, cereal and Danish pastries. All public areas were decorated splendidly for the occasion. Staff were friendly, polite and courteous.

Fantastic experience: Went for the New Year’s Eve gala night and had an amazing time , drinks with canope’s first, room lovely decorated and food absolutely delicious. Staff very friendly and helpful . The breakfast had everything you could ask for with lovely Staff .

Positive experience: Recent stay, Great reception team Room lovely & nice bathroom. Had difficulty sleeping due to the noise levels from other returning guests, I went to bed at 01:00 & it was much later than this & didn’t happen just once throughout the night. Breakfast was good, great standard & selection of food, coffee a bit weak though. Lovely & warm throughout on a very cold night.

Fantastic experience: Went for a spa day .The staff were all lovely. The facilities one of the best I've been to .Lunch was buffet style, a good selection of meats and salads . An overall lovely day

Fantastic experience: Excellent hotel, went for the fireworks night and was very well organised. Couldn't have done a better job. Food was good and not overpriced. Will definitely return!

Fantastic experience: Recently visited the Vale Resort for golfing weekend. The staff in the pro shop were very helpful especially Hannah who advised me on golf clubs and other golf courses that I should visit in the area. Will be visiting again next year and won't hesitate to recommend to friends and family

Positive experience: Impressive set up - particularly if you like sports and leisure. It’s a big operation but good helpful staff make it work well. We did a work dinner and drinks. Gym is outstanding. Rooms are decent size and modern. Huge comfy bed. Modern bathroom - although shower over bath is never to my liking. Decent but not great breakfast.

Fantastic experience: Lovely hotel with good conference facilities. The rooms were better too. Far superior to the Celtic Manor & ICC in my opinion

Positive experience: Room not cleaned next morning as we didn’t put our ‘clean room’ tag ( on back of ‘ donot disturb sign’ on door …. No sign / notice anywhere that this needed to be done. Food menu is same the following night- so not much choice for vegetarians.

Fantastic experience: Enjoyed a spa experience today in an extremely clean and relaxing environment with a quality lunch. Also, a very professional massage was given by Mary, who made the whole visit first class.

Positive experience: Nice hotel, shame about the service, told we couldn't have a travel cot when booking, then that we could, then it wasn't in the room but 2 child beds were out when it was a booking for 2 adults and a 1 year old. Stayed 2 nights, room not cleaned during the day even with the clean me sign on the door. Called to ask for the bed to be made while we went out for dinner as the bottom sheet had come loose, they didn't empty bins or give us more water while in there. Toiletries not changed between guests, when we went to use them the shower gel, it was empty, called down for some which never came. Breakfast had a good section and the meal in the bar we had one night was ok but not amazing, my burger was so salty it was almost inedible. No toddler menu, just under 10s which is way too much food for a toddler so feels like a waste of money. I didn't find the huge bed comfortable I now have a 5 hour drive home with neck and backache. We booked here instead of a premier inn in the centre of Cardiff as there was parking and thought it would be nicer, but to be honest I wonder if I would have slept better in a premier inn and just paid for parking.

Fantastic experience: We had a fabulous stay. Family room super comfortable and cleaned impeccably each day. Food was amazing; ultimate breakfast choices and a lovely dinner menu. We loved visiting the pool - the staff made it easy to navigate. The reception staff were friendly and helpful. The staff in the dining room were very friendly.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely wonderful few days break celebrating a family birthday & graduation combined at this outstanding venue. The Vale Resort is just pure joy to immerse in a traditional Celtic warm welcome with amazing sincere service across-the-board. Special mention to Gareth Jones on Reception today for impeccable understanding and huge support. Top guy & exemplary representation

Positive experience: We recently held our daughter’s wedding at the Vale. The planner was excellent, along with all of the staff. The man on reception (Gareth, I think his name was) was friendly, helpful and funny. The grounds are great for photos and the function room and wedding room were well planned out. The food was hot and very tasty and delivered in a timely manner. Breakfast was very nice too. On the negative side, it’s impossible to get a reply to an email, speak to someone on the phone or contact reception by phone. The wedding party ate the night before the wedding, although the food was good, the service was very slow. On the whole, I feel that this is an excellent venue for a wedding and would recommend it and definitely visit again.