"My husband and I have been returning to The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast for almost 10 years, and it has always held a special place in our hearts, as we even got engaged here. Unfortunately, our most recent stay has left us extremely disappointed and questioning whether we would return.
Having booked a suite at £510 per night, we expected the exceptional five-star experience we had always associated with the Fitzwilliam. Sadly, the standards of service, presentation and attention to detail appear to have declined considerably.
Our first impressions were disappointing, with dirty room-service dishes, glasses and laundry bags left in the corridor. The complimentary congratulations plate in our suite was also poorly presented, and the bathroom towels were noticeably hard and rough. Evening turndown service consisted of closing the curtains, while used glasses, bottles and the ice bucket were left untouched.
The bar experience was particularly poor. Staff appeared more interested in their phones than attending to guests, while dirty glasses and plates accumulated. We received incorrect drinks, nobody checked whether we were enjoying our food, and we had to request our bill four times before approaching staff ourselves. Despite this, a service charge was added and only removed when questioned. We also had concerns about how our food was handled when served.
We raised concerns with Ross, the bar manager, who assured us our feedback would be taken on board, but there was no apparent follow-up.
Breakfast the following morning was equally disappointing. My Eggs Benedict arrived with bread that appeared burnt and smoked salmon that looked an unusual colour. Neither of us was offered toast or additional tea or coffee, despite other guests being asked. Nobody returned to check whether everything was satisfactory.
We spoke with Matthew, the Director, at checkout, who apologised and assured us our concerns would be addressed. He also mentioned an adjustment to our bill, but at the time of writing, we have yet to receive confirmation of this. His subsequent email offered a preferential rate for a future stay, which, whilst appreciated, does little to address the disappointing experience we have already paid for.
What saddens us most is that we know how wonderful the Fitzwilliam once was. Over the years, it was somewhere we genuinely looked forward to visiting because of the hospitality, personal service and attention to detail.
At £510 per night for a five-star suite, we expected considerably better. This wasn't one isolated issue but a series of disappointments across several departments.
We sincerely hope management takes the feedback seriously and restores the standards that once made this hotel so special.
Sadly, after almost a decade of wonderful memories, this has been our most disappointing stay."