Not as we had hoped unfortunately.
We drove 3.5 hours to come and visit Highclere Castle for my partner’s birthday treat. I read the reviews and thought it would be great place stay.
Starting on arrival we were informed that to swim would be an extra £20 for us both, not something we have experienced before with hotels with pools, so didn't think to check terms and conditions before booking, and for £210 per night excluding breakfast, a reasonable person would have expected this would be included, out of annoyance we didn't use the swimming pool, but still had it added to the bill, although it was removed when asked.
The main frustration however was the fire alarm going off at 0615 from a smoke alarm set off from steam in another room, which left us tired for the day at Highclere, so not a restful time away unfortunately.
On the plus, the staff were all friendly and professional, and breakfast was good.