Macdonald Norwood Hall

"We had a slow check-in but loved the old world nature of this place and the sitting rooms. The room we had been allocated was large and comfortable and the shower was excellent. We had an enjoyable dinner. Breakfast in the morning was also good. I was a little surprised by the currency fluctuation difference when we checked out and paid via credit card (was quite a bit higher than we’d been getting elsewhere) and the hold deposit on my credit card wasn’t removed straight away. The latter could have been my bank account not the hotel but either way I found it didn’t quite add up. We enjoyed our stay nevertheless. Would definitely recommend when in the area."

"We have stayed at another Macdonald property in the past and figured this would be just as good. First, let me say the staff is nice and welcoming. We never felt like there was an air of not caring. But, I cannot give high compliments for the rest of the stay. Our room was positioned right above the kitchen ventilation units. Didn't realize this until about 6pm when our open windows (it was warm in the room and opening the windows gave a pleasant breeze) allowed the fish fry smell to quickly invade our room. Along with the smells of beef cooking we were forced to close them up, which then became warm again. By 10pm I had to open the windows again, by this time dinner service was done. The room itself was spacious, however im not sure where the money is going that guests are paying to stay, our room (and many other reviews I've seen) really needed a new mattress. This was so old and lumpy, we were both extremely sore the next morning. Pillows were old and hard as well. Our bathroom was not the cleanest either as mold and mildew was prominent in the shower. The hotel itself has a lot of character but really could use some renovations, the dining room for breakfast was very dark. Lots of dark colors, dark drapes, dark wood. I guess maybe trying to preserve original carpets and such? Our second night was not so bad with the windows open as it seemed either they were not serving fish and chips or nobody, blessedly, wanted it. The hotel is positioned in a part of Aberdeen where it wasn't far to drive anywhere to explore the city center."

"We have used Macdonald hotels for over 25 years. We have liked their consistent 4* quality and generally well trained attentive staff. Sadly this was by far our worst experience. This could and should be a great country house hotel with great grounds and public rooms. Sadly the bedroom was housed in what appeared to be a 2* Annexe, which was in very poor repair including damp from what appeared to be a shot flat roof. The bedroom was small, stuffy and very scruffy. it was badly in need of redecoration, and was well worn, the bed blanket looked like the moths had got it. Our mood was not helped by a ground floor room with a window which would not close and a safe which would not shut. Already tight for a dinner, after a long drive we had to leave our valuables with reception. Although this was resolved in our absence, there was no note/apology/explanation. No staff on reception at check out, then no ask re our stay. Way below a 4* experience, way below what we have come to expect from a Macdonald Hotel."