View from the Room: The Kings Head, Richmond
Situated proudly on the High Street - just one reason we love the Coaching Inns - this elegant 18th-century Georgian gem brims with the charm of a bygone era.
The service is exemplary. If we had to point out a downside, it would be the car park: about six spaces, and once the daily rate is paid, there’s no guarantee of a spot after a day out. We opted for the main public car park five minutes away; half the price and, thanks to a generous stranger, free on our first day via an unused ticket.
This kind of simple gesture stands out in contrast to today’s parking dance: download yet another app, enter car details, and pay a service fee just to pay for parking. A universal contactless option would be far more sane.
The Room
The bathroom featured the customary rubber duck, a generous bath with a large handheld shower overhead, and gloriously soft towels. A deep vanity drawer and discreet wall shelves offered ample storage, plus a surprising amount of space behind the toilet. And yes, a hook in the bathroom. A rarity worth celebrating.
The double wardrobe had actual doors, uncommon these days, and it came with a side of shelving. Both sides of the bed featured bedside units, one of which doubled as a desk/dressing table. By the window, more storage in a low shelf unit below the wall-mounted TV. One bedside unit offered a single drawer, while the other was lost to the safe.
Plug points were sufficient, though somewhat congested around the desk where the only mirror in the room was. Lighting included large bedside lamps, reading lights, and (I think) an overhead entrance light.
Food & Drink A kettle was provided, but unfortunately, none of those lovely filter coffee bags we have gotten used to. Instead, the dreaded pod machine, which, I hope is not a sign of a chain-wide shift. Thankfully, the hotel lounge still serves filter coffee in a cafetière, with a delightful shot glass of Maltesers alongside. And the restaurant remains as impressive as other Coaching Inns we’ve visited.
In-room drinkware was thoughtfully varied: mugs, cups and tall glasses. The plastic water bottle is a disappointment, though. One day, perhaps, hotels will offer a simple tap for drinking water.
Amenities The iconic Roberts radio (still on my wishlist) made an appearance, as did physical games, a hairdryer, and a safe.
This 300-year-old building doesn’t offer a lift or ground-floor rooms, but the sweeping staircase is a beauty, albeit only for the able-bodied.
Another wonderful stay with the Coaching Inn family, featuring great breakfasts, excellent dinners, and a sense of continuity with Georgian charm and small-town service.
April 2025
