The Leven - Stockton-on-Tees

We had been bought a voucher for this chain of hotels which was coming near to expiry so having had a lovely Sunday Lunch here a few years ago thought it would be lovely to go again. Started badly we ordered a Hendricks gin and slimline tonic a lime and soda and 2 of the black sheep brewery lagers. What we received was 2 soda waters a lager and lime and a Hendricks with normal tonic so essentially every drink was wrong was eventually rectified but not the best start. We were surprised to see they were serving topside but stated served pink so we ordered it . When it came it was a massive chunk of overcooked beef with zero fat or flavour it took some getting through to be honest. We ordered a bottle of wine and the server spilt on the table when pouring both initial glasses. I appreciate that the food price is reasonable in the current climate but the offering doesn’t meet the setting could be so much better. We knocked the service charge off and my husband did explain why at the time but we were then accosted by the maitre d on the way out asking us why this was after he had encouraged us to leave a good review on trip advisor etc and tried to book us in for 2 weeks time just not really good enough!

Excellent food, excellent value, slow service. Nice staff who were young and keen and learning on the job.

Nice welcome by friendly staff Good choice of menu Gloria was an excellant MD made everyone’s lunch Food was well presented and to a high standard All very hot and vegetables were exceptionally good Attention to detail was of a high standard Highly recommended

We have visited Crathorne Hall Hotel many times, usually for lunch and always enjoy the freshly cooked fare, served in the relaxed atmosphere of the beautiful dining room. Gloria always adds her own special touch when welcoming us to the table, and supervising the delivery of dishes in her own inimitable cheerful style. Not a huge selection on the lunchtime menu, but nearly always a fish dish and vegetarian option. Not the place to go if you are in a rush, as service is leisurely. Can thoroughly recommend the bream, and also the (very rich) creme brulee!

My wife and i took 2 friends to Sunday Lunch and had high expectations given the Hall's reputation. The starters were fine (2 Crayfish cocktails and 2 Pates) we all ordered the roast beef. What a disappointment! although the portions were generous, the beef was extremely tough. Because we were hungry, and did not want to make a complaint during the meal, we struggled through it. At the end of the meal the waitress noticed a lot left on our plates and asked if there was a problem, we told her the beef was far too tough and we were all very disappointed. She said she would tell the chef, but nothing was done. I felt embarrassed for our guests and asked for the bill, £91 for four 2 course meals and 3 glasses of wine!!!! which I would not have minded if it was good food! I paid to avoid embarrassing my guests but will NEVER go back or recommend it to anyone. As an afterthought, maybe the chef should sample the meat before he sends it out!