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Penarwyn House - St. Blazey, Home of the Eden Project

. .AA Inspectors Report. .

Nobody could fail to be impressed

 Visit Enland Inspection 20th February 2013

Guest Accommodation Standard

Penarwyn House

St Blazey

5 Star Guest Accommodation 96%

Gold Award, Breakfast Award

20 Feb 2013

Visit type: Overnight

Visit Report

Penarwyn House

Exterior (3.5 - Common Standards Reference)

Buildings, paintwork, signage and hanging baskets etc 4

Grounds, gardens and frontage 4

Car parking 4

Score 80%

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 5

Flooring 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 5

Stairs, corridors, landings and public WC 5

Score 100%

Dining Room or Restaurant (3.9 - Common Standards Reference)  

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 4

Flooring 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 4

Table appointment 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 4

Score 90%

Bedrooms (3.6 - Common Standards Reference)

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 5

Flooring 4

Beds and bedding 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 5

Bedroom accessories 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 5

Score 97%

Bathrooms (3.7 - Common Standards Reference)

Decoration 5

Sanitary ware, fixtures and fittings 5

Flooring 4

Lighting, heating and ventilation 5

Towels and toiletries 5

Space, comfort ease of use 5

Score 96%

Cleanliness (3.2 - Common Standards Reference)  

Public areas 5

Dining room 5

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 5

Score 100%

Hospitality and Friendliness (3.3 - Common Standards Reference)

Booking and arrival hospitality 5

Hospitality on departure 5

Other hospitality (inc. dinner where provided) 5

Breakfast hospitality and friendliness 5

Score 100%

Service and Efficiency (3.4 - Common Standards Reference)

Booking and arrival service 5

Service on departure 5

Other service (inc. dinner where provided) 5

Breakfast service 5

Score 100%

Food Quality (3.10 - Common Standards Reference)

Breakfast choice / range 5

Breakfast presentation (inc. buffet) 5

Breakfast quality / culinary skills 5

Score 100%

96% = Level 5; (85% to 100%)

Cleanliness  100% = Level 5; (90% to 100%)

Bedrooms 97% = Level 5; (85% to 100%)

Bathrooms  96% = Level 5; (85% to 100%)

Hospitality 100% = Level 5; (90% to 100%)

Breakfast 100% = Level 5; (85% to 100%)

In order to achieve a star rating the following elements of the assessment need to be satisfied.

1. All Minimum Entry Requirements must be met. (See Minimum Entry Requirement page in this     report for detail)

2. The Star rating will be no higher than the level achieved by the overall percentage.

3. Key Area Scores: All sectional consistency areas must be equal to or higher than the overall rating (No areas to be below the overall)

4. The Star rating will be capped if Key Requirements are not met at each rating level.

Penarwyn House successfully retains a commendable Five Star Guest Accommodation rating

with Gold and Breakfast awards also further retained for the next twelve months.

Even in light of the more recent increases at this rating level, Penarwyn meets the required

percentages comfortably thanks to the high levels of commitment and investment that takes place

year after year.

Owners happy and proud of the rating.

Prideaux occupied by assessor. Remaining two rooms seen (3 out of 3).

Walk round and debrief with owners Mr and Mrs Russell.

A very well presenting website with quality images and accurate text.

It is understood that the single bedroom Luxulyan is rarely used and as a result has not been

assessed at this visit. This will need to be relayed in the advertising or the room is removed from

the advertising in its entirety.

Disappointing to see the Visit England logos not used. These logos can be provided by

contacting the Quality in Tourism office.

Whilst not all Penarwyn guests are likely to use social networking sites such as Twitter and

Facebook, adding these links would provide Penarwyn with a greater internet presence and

should be considered.

Once again cleanliness levels were to an excellent standard with surfaces highly polished and

flooring thoroughly vacummed.

Bedrooms present to an excellent standard with decoration beautifully maintained. Prideaux had

just benefited from redecoration.

Period pieces of furniture excellent in quality, presentation and most in keeping with the age and

style of the property.

Flooring to all bedrooms very good in condition.

Attractive beds and headboards take centre stage in each bedroom with high quality bedding and

freshly laundered bed linen pristine in appearance. As discussed, whilst the sheet and blanket

arrangement works very well for guests, at this high rating level the option to be able to choose

preference between sheets/blankets and a high quality feather or fake feather duvet would be

encouraged and indeed expected. Good to hear that since the assessment suitable weight and

high quality duvets are being sourced.

Room accessories are excellent in their range and quality. Since the last assessment, convenient

coffee bags have been included in the well stocked hospitality trays.

Ample soft, task lighting provided, effective controllable heating combined with ample natural

ventilation ensure that guests benefit from maximum comfort in these essential areas.

Generously proportioned bedrooms with Prideaux and DeCressy suite particularly spacious. All

bedrooms very well appointed with ample, suitably positioned power sockets and comfortable

easy seating. The bedrooms are further supplemented by comfortable lounges exclusively for

guest use.

Bathrooms once again excellent in their presentation with decoration immaculate.

High quality sanitary ware and associated fixtures and fittings also excellent.

Flooring to bathrooms is very good in quality and suited to the wet environment.

An extensive range of high quality Gilchrist and Soames Spa range is provided along with a high

quality toweling bale per person including robes and facecloths.

Levels of lighting, heating and ventilation again excellent in their provision and controllability.

Space, comfort and ease of use to bathrooms is excellent with ample storage provided for guest

use. As discussed, the continuation of the wall mounted magnified mirrors to all bathrooms is

very much encouraged.

The booking was made on 11/2. Excellent levels of hospitality forthcoming ensuring that the

guest was clear on room, rate, directions etc. Personal details requested and accurately

recorded including email address. Prompt confirmation of booking received via email which

included a useful list of recommended local restaurants.

On arrival the welcome was again excellent with a friendly greeting from both owners. Immediate

assistance with luggage from the car to room gratefully accepted. A very thorough room show

followed. The offer of tea and home-made cake to the lounge most welcome. Guest registration

card left for completion.

The request for use of a torch dealt with very promptly.

On departure, assistance was again offered with luggage from room to car.

A professionally presented receipt was pre-prepared. Onward journey assistance offered and

much appreciated.

Departure hospitality once again excellent.

Breakfast is served to the attractive and elegant guests dining room.

Table appointment is excellent with high quality crockery, cutlery and associated tableware.

The buffet arrangement offers a selection of starter options with other alternatives offered in

advance.

The hot option selection is excellent with great emphasis on the origin of the high quality

ingredients used.

Items sampled - (Tea, toast, home-made preserve, local apple juice, Penarwyn mess (a delicious

muesli dish), scrambled eggs, hogs pudding, sausage, bacon and tomatoes). All items sampled

were of an excellent quality standard and beautifully presented with plates hot.

Breakfast hospitality excellent with pleasant guest interaction experienced. Service levels

attentive, yet unobtrusive.

Very little area for improvement however some suggestions would include;

Identifying a suitable weighted and quality duvet to offer as an alternative to the current blanket

and sheet arrangement.

Continuation with the implementation of magnified mirrors to remaining bathrooms.

As discussed, the score for car parking could be increased so long as the surface is pothole free,

spaces are clearly defined and ample lighting is provided between car parking area and entrance

to property.

Penarwyn property is a hidden gem and levels of repeat business are testament to this.

Extensive external work since the last assessment visit to chimney, guttering and fascias.

The successful fireplace refurbishment in the guests lounge.

Service and hospitality levels from both owners.

Cleanliness standards throughout.

Comfortable, well appointed, elegant bedrooms, bathrooms and public areas.

Delicious breakfast with quality ingredients used.

Standard:      Guest Accommodation

Designator:  Guest Accommodation

Rating:          Five Star Gold

For a rating to be awarded by VisitEngland a property must meet all:

Minimum Entry Requirements

Key Requirements, as appropriate to the Star level

Any Additional Requirements

At the time of our visit all of the Minimum Entry Requirements and Additional Requirements/Key

Requirements were provided.

Visit Report

Guest Accommodation Standard

 Penarwyn House St Blazey  5 Star Guest Accommodation 95% Gold Award, Breakfast Award  

Visit date: 15 Feb 2012

Visit type: Overnight

QiT No: 551556

   Executive Summary  Overall Score

Providing high quality and welcoming accommodation, Penarwyn House retains its Five Star

rating, with both the Gold Award and Breakfast accolade being re-confirmed

 Rooms Seen

Stayed in Treffrey, saw Prideaux and DeCressy suite with Mike.

 Website Feedback

The web site has been checked and accurately reflects the accommodation provided, video views

of rooms etc, easy to use.

 Cleanliness

An excellent standard of housekeeping and cleanliness found throughout the property with

attention to detail observed at both high and low levels. On arrival into room carpet thoroughly

vacuumed, surfaces well dusted, fixtures and fittings gleaming in en-suite.

 Bedrooms

All rooms with a pristine finish to the decoration, rooms, all with own style carefully planned and

fixtures and fittings added accordingly. Carpeting found to be very comfortable underfoot. Period

furniture has been carefully chosen for each room, providing ample hanging and storage

provision. High quality window dressings and feature headboards made by Jan. Beds, frames

made by Mike, with deep and supportive mattresses all providing guests with a very good nights

rest. Crisp linen, coordinated valances and fitted bed covers enhance presentation. An excellent

range of accessories provided for guests use, including DAB radio alarm, Wi-Fi, selection of

quality magazines, safe, silent fridge, well stocked beverage tray etc. Rooms maintained at a

comfortable warmth with radiators controllable by guests, well placed lighting.

Bathrooms

Excellent finish to decoration seen in all bathrooms. All double facilities with both feature bath and

separate shower provision, Luxulyan with a shower. Lighting well placed and all facilities

maintained at a comfortable warmth. Provision made for storage of guests own toiletries. Flooring

with both vinyl and washable carpet tiles continues to be very good. Excellent range of towels,

including bath sheet, robe and face cloth and toiletries provided, full range from Gilchrist &

Soames.

 Hospitality and guest experience

Friendly manner on the phone when the booking call made on 23/1/12. Room rate given, £75 for

sole occupancy of double room, personal details taken and details confirmed via e-mail. On

arrival Mike / the owner met guest at the car, guest warmly welcomed and given assistance with

luggage. As guest escorted to room, all public areas pointed out. When reaching room a

thorough explanation of facilities given. Refreshment was offered, coffee and homemade cake

taken downstairs with both owners, where pleasant levels of conversation followed. The owners

could advise on local eating establishments, and breakfast times and arrangements discussed.

Friendly morning greeting when arriving in the dining room for breakfast with good enquire into

the comfort experienced. Order well taken, good offer of sauces with main dish.

Bill ready prepared at time of departure and payment well handled.

Throughout the stay the guest was made to feel most welcome with genuine hospitality shown at

all times.

 Breakfast

A selection of juices, fresh and prepared fruits, natural yoghurt, pro-biotic drinks and cereals

available on the buffet. Well presented menu offering a Traditional breakfast and lighter options,

'Specials' including; Porridge, The Penarwyn Mess (own meusli dish) Smoked Haddock, stack of

pancakes, to be ordered in advance and this had been discussed when taking refreshment on

arrival. Local producers used, could be credited by name

Orange juice, selection of freshly prepared fruit and natural yoghurt taken to start.

Main dish of bacon, tomato, mushroom and poached egg, excellent quality bacon, thick cut and

cooked as requested.

Pot of quality coffee, granary toast and lime marmalade to finish.

Highlights

Period property that has undergone extensive refurbishment by the current owners, retaining

many original features yet providing guests with modern day comforts. Some weathering to

exterior, however it is appreciated that Mike is currently replacing fascias, prior to painting.

On arrival, after coming through porch with its tessellated floor, guests come into the spectacular

entrance hall with its parquet flooring and rugs, lit by chandeliers. Comfortable drawing room

leads into the conservatory with further seating. A traditionally styled snooker room at the end of

the hall with further seating and selection of books and games.

Welcoming dining room with further items of period furniture, excellent table appointment with

crisp linen napery, polished cutlery and glassware.

Potential for Improvement

The owners have thought of everything to make sure that todays guests have the advantage of

all modern conveniences while enjoying the luxury of staying in this period property.

Since the previous visit some new televisions have been added, and the owners are looking for

two more, 23" digital with integrated DVD,

As discussed consideration could be given to adding 'coffee bags' to room trays, this is being

trialled.

It is suggested that perhaps on the back of menu's the local suppliers are named.

Perhaps 'Hog's Pudding' could be included as part of the Traditional breakfast.

Key Scores and Sectional Consistencies Overall 95% = 5 star; safe (85% to 100%) Cleanliness 100% = 5 star; high (90% to 100%) Bedrooms 97% = 5 star; safe (85% to 100%) Bathrooms 96% = 5 star; safe (85% to 100%) Hospitality 100% = 5 star; high (90% to 100%) Breakfast 100% = 5 star; high (85% to 100%)  In order to achieve a star rating the following elements of the assessment need to be satisfied. 1. All Minimum Entry Requirements must be met. (See Minimum Entry Requirement page in this report for detail) 2. The Star rating awarded will be no higher than the rating achieved in the Overall assessment. 3. Key Area Scores: All sectional consistency areas must be equal to or higher than the overall rating (No areas to be below the overall) 4. The Star rating will be capped if Key Requirements are not met at each rating level. Where the Overall score or a Key Area is marked as ‘High’ this indicates that the score for this area is close to achieving a higher level. Where the Overall score or a Key Area is marked as ‘Safe’ this indicates that the score for this area sits comfortably within this level. Where the Overall score or a Key Area is marked as ‘Low’ this indicates that the score in this area is at the lower end of the banding indicating quality improvements are advised to maintain the section at this level. N.B.Where a day visit has taken place to a serviced property, the scores shown in this report for food, hospitality and service are carried forward from the previous overnight assessment

Cleanliness (3.2 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Cleanliness - Public areas 5

Cleanliness - Dining room 5

Cleanliness - Bedroom 5

Cleanliness - Bathroom 5

100%

Bedrooms (3.6 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 5

Flooring 4

Beds and bedding 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 5

Bedroom accessories 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 5

97%

Bathrooms (3.7 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Decoration 5

Fixtures and fittings 5

Flooring 4

Lighting, heating and ventilation 5

Towels and toiletries 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 5

96%

Hospitality and Friendliness (3.3 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Booking and arrival hospitality 5

Dinner and general hospitality 5

Departure hospitality 5

Breakfast hospitality 5

100%

Food Quality (3.10 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Breakfast choice and presentation 5

Breakfast food quality 5

100%

Service and Efficiency (3.4 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Booking and arrival service 5

Dinner and general service 5

Departure service 5

Breakfast service 5

100%

Dining Room or Restaurant (3.9 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 4

Flooring 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 4

Table appointment 5

Space, comfort and ease of use 4

90%

All Public Areas (3.8 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Decoration 5

Furniture, fittings and furnishings 5

Flooring 5

Lighting, heating and ventilation 4

Space, comfort and ease of use 5

Stairs, corridors, landings and public WC 5

96%

Exterior (3.5 - Common Standards Reference) Score

Buildings 4

Grounds, gardens and frontage 4

Car parking 4

80%

Guest Accommodation

Five Star Gold

Standard:

Designator:

Rating:

Minimum Entry Requirements

Specialities:

For a rating to be awarded by VisitEngland a property must meet all:

Minimum Entry Requirements

Key Requirements, as appropriate to the Star level

Any Additional Requirements

At the time of our visit all of the Minimum Entry Requirements and Additional Requirements/Key

Requirements were provided.

AA Inspectors report 24/04/2012

Penarwyn  House remains a very impressive example of Guest Accommodation with such high

quality levels throughout all areas of the operation and exacting attention to detail. Physically,

bedrooms are in excellent shape with generous levels of space and comfort and special mention

must be made of the bespoke headboards, a real hallmark! All mandatory requirements are in

place with diligent maintenance ensuring a very positive first impression. Bathrooms reflect

similar strengths with individuality and style allied with good practicality ensuring ease of use is

maximised in all cases. With regard to housekeeping, no issues of any note were apparent with

great house-pride noted throughout, thus ensuring the level of confidence which is so important

for guests. Public areas are all well appointed and provide ample space for guests to enjoy this

special house. Additional facilities, such as the snooker room are no doubt much appreciated by

guests. Externally, the ongoing paintwork will unify presentation. As a result of this visit, a classification at Five Stars is well deserved with a Guest Accommodation designator.

PENARWYNHOUSE

Guest Experience Report: Day visit

This feedback is based purely on our  guest   experience and  does not have a direct connection to the Quality Standard Grading. Inevitably, some areas will of course overlap. In addition to the aspects that do overlap,

These questions represent what many Guest Accommodation properties offer across different designators (B&B, Inn, Farmhouse, Guest House and Restaurant with Rooms) and might form areas of consideration for your business.

Cleanliness

1/ Was the overall standard of housekeeping in the bedrooms diligent? Very good levels of housekeeping noted.

2/ Did you find any high level dust? There was no evidence of any high level dust.

3/ Where carpets free from debris? The carpets were well vacuumed.

4/ Did all visited bedrooms and bathrooms smell fresh? All rooms were fresh smelling.

5/ Was all spare bedding wrapped? The spare bedding was properly wrapped and stored.

6/ Was it clean behind, below and inside fixtures and furniture (e.g. All areas were clean. beds, drawers, wardrobes, radiators)?  All areas were clean

7/ Were all items on the hospitality tray and other glassware sparkling and clean? All items were very clean.

8/Was there evidence of housekeeping "best practice" (e.g. linen checked for damage,  clean linen not stored on carpets etc)?  All inen was in very good condition.

 9/ Did all visited bathrooms show clear evidence of sparkle- chrome, mirrors, tiling etc?

Very good attention to detail noted.

10/ Were bathroom contact areas and the floor deeply clean? All contact areas were very clean.

11/ Were bathroom fixtures and fittings thoroughly clean? All fixtures and fittings were thoroughly clean.

12/Did the public areas show high standards of housekeeping? Good attention to detail noted throughout.

13/ Where applicable, were public toilets clean and well presented? The question is not applicable at this establishment.

In all bedrooms visited

1/ Was décor well maintained-walls, ceilings, and woodwork? The décor was well maintained.

2/ Were bedroom carpets and floor covering in good condition and properly fitted. In all bedrooms visited? Flooring in good condition and properly fitted?

3/ Were bedroom fixtures and furniture generally in good condition? All in very good condition.

4/ Were bedrooms comfortable and laid out in a practical way? The bedrooms were comfortable.

5/ Were mirrors & powerpoints provided in suitable locations? These were well positioned.

6/ Were beds well dressed and in good condition? Nicely dressed and in very good condition.

7/ Did all bedrooms have enough storage space? Adequate storage space provided.

8/ Were coat hangers of a good quality & quantity? Good quality wooden hangers provided.

In all bathrooms visited

1/  Was bathroom decor well maintained -walls, tiles, and ceiling? All in very good condition.

2/ Was bathroom floor covering in good condition and properly fitted?  In good condition and properly fitted.

 3/ Were bathroom fixtures and fittings generally in good condition? All in good condition.

 4/ Were bathrooms practical and easy to use e.g. shelf space, lighting? These provided very good ease of use.

 5/ Were towels of a generous size & of an absorbent quality? Very good quality towels provided.

 6/ Did the quality of the bathroom toiletries meet with expectations? Good quality and range provided.

1/ Is the property well signposted & easy to find.?  Well signposted and easy to find.

2/ Does the frontage/entrance make a positive first impression?  Very good first impression.

3/ Was the facade of the building free of significant maintenance problems (peeling paintwork etc.)?

Well maintained and in very good condition.  

4/ Were any gardens, car park etc neat and tidy? All external areas neat and tidy.

5/ Was signage external & internal logical & informative? Signage logical and informative.

6/ Were any lounges/bars and their contents in good condition? All in very good condition.

7/ Was the breakfast/dining room and its contents in good condition?   Well maintained and in good condition.

8/ Were corridors, landings and any public toilets and their contents in good condition? All areas in very good condition.

AA Inspector's Report - 2007 - Awarded 5 Yellow Stars plus Breakfast Award

In terms of the new AA Quality standards, Penarwyn House achieved a well deserved Five Star rating with a Guest Accommodation designator; and a Breakfast award. First impressions were positive with the exterior of the property, drive and gardens presenting very well. Internally, nobody could fail to be impressed with the spacious, stylishly presented bedrooms and bathrooms. Although not fully tested on this occasion, hospitality was relaxed, very friendly and naturally welcoming, born out from the marks awarded on the previous overnight stay. Cleanliness, considered to be of paramount importance within the inspection process, was very thorough in all areas, no mean feat in a house of this size and age. We look forward to returning to the property in the future and wish you continued success with your venture.

AA Inspector's Report - June 2005. Awarded 5 Red Diamonds

Penarwyn House provides a commendable standard of accommodation, and at this inspection, a most enjoyable guest experience. Quality Standards scored very highly on this occasion enabling a most confident recommendation at Five Diamonds.

The development of the house as it is now, is a dramatic indication of the proprietors commitment to providing the very highest standards for their guests. Hospitality was a notable strength, I was made to feel welcome and at home. The friendly and proactive conversation offered by both Mike and Jan, at every contact, made a lasting impression, clearly both are accomplished hosts. Service too was impressive - a good booking and arrival, good room information too. Breakfast service was attentive, and all aspects were well organised throughout the guest experience.

Breakfast was most enjoyable, freshly and accurately cooked, high quality ingredients full marks here. Housekeeping deserves praise also, impeccable standards. The bedrooms are very well appointed, high quality fabrics and furnishings, comfortable and spacious and well equipped too. The public areas also leave a lasting impression, and the continuing project is exciting. The external appearance, super gardens and the quiet location, all add to the catalogue of notable features.

Without doubt there will be many returning guests at Penarwyn House, future success seems assured.