We returned to Ellenborough Park for the second time to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and we had a fantastic time yet again. There are almost 1,000 5-star reviews for this place, and it is easy to see why. Everywhere is immaculately well kept, and everything works as it should. Staff are keen to please and are attentive without being intrusive. Upon check-in, we were allocated a room that was in an annexe within the grounds. When we asked for a room in the main building, one was found quickly and it was no trouble to switch. This was tremendous service. A refreshing drink would have been nice, otherwise our check-in experience was fine. Jonathon served us very well and he is excellent at what he does. We had dinner in the brasserie on one night, which was very nice. The service was great and the food was delicious and without fault. The bedrooms are spacious and very clean, and with great views of the surrounding countryside. We used the outdoor pool which was nice and warm, perfect for an English summer! So, why only 4-stars? Well, several reasons really. When we asked for bread at dinner we were charged £4 for a few lumps of bread and a bit of butter. Is this really necessary...? Drinks are also hideously expensive, so be aware (£14 for a G&T). We used the boot room to get kitted out for a walk up Cleeve Hill. Having the right gear to use is a great idea, but it was obvious that nobody cares for the boots as they were filthy, caked in dry mud and in poor repair (some had holes in). Surely someone can find the time to clean and treat the boots. The bedrooms are kitted-out with large bottles of 100 Acres products, with a clear notice that these are not to be removed from the rooms but can be purchased at reception. The concierge booked us a local taxi to take us to town, which was very good of them. Unfortunately it was raining whilst we were out and we weren't offered an umbrella. This may be a small detail, but it is little touches like this that set great hotel's apart from the best. Finally, we went to book treatments at the spa but were told they were fully booked for the duration of our stay. The hotel was nowhere near full, or even busy, so this was really disappointing. The spa desperately need to increase their capability to meet the demands for their services, especially from hotel guests, otherwise there is no point in coming to the hotel in the first place. Overall though, Ellenborough Park remains one of our very favourite hotels in the UK, and we will definitely go back again when we need a short break.