What readers probably won't know is that this is the home of Tesco's training centre, and that most guests will be employees of our favourite supermarket chain (well... certainly mine, but then again I'm employed by them.)

Still, I won't be biased.

Tesco now contract a company to manage Ponsbourne Park on their behalf, and in general, standards are high.

Recent investment has seen rooms and public areas updated, and all are fitted to high standard now.

Bedrooms are comfy, well designed and thoughtout, and well equipped.
Note that some rooms are in the 'new block', and these lack the character of the rooms in the house.

The restaurant provides very good quality food, well presented and with good levels of service.

Overall, I've found Ponsbourne Park to be of a similar or better standard than many hotels I've stayed - even though it is the in-house option, it's one of my preferred choices when staying in Hertfordshire on business.

Why an 'old friend'? I've stayed here many, many times over the last 18 years (I've spent months of my life there if you add all the stays up), and seen many changes take place.