In our review of this cozy countryside inn, we found The Knife & Cleaver to be a charming spot just a short hop from Bedford. With comfy rooms, tasty grub, and friendly folks running the show, it’s a great base for exploring the area.
The rooms are up-to-date with all the usual gadgets, and some even boast big, cushy beds fit for a king.
Downstairs, the restaurant dishes up yummy British food that you can enjoy inside or out on the patio.
Now, it’s not all roses. The place is a bit off the beaten path, so you’ll need a car to get around easily.
And if you’re looking for big-city excitement, this quiet village might feel a tad sleepy.
But for travelers who want to soak up some real English countryside charm, The Knife & Cleaver hits the spot. It’s perfect for couples on a romantic getaway or anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle for a few days.
Just don’t forget to pop into nearby Bedford for a stroll along the river or a peek at the old town square.
Good To Know
- The Knife & Cleaver is an AA 4 Gold Star awarded property located in Houghton Conquest, MK45 3LA, UK, 15 minutes from Bedford city center and Ampthill rail station.
- The accommodation features private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, TVs, and some rooms with king-size beds, along with modern British cuisine restaurants, a bar, and alfresco dining.
- Guests can enjoy evening entertainment, free on-site parking, and express check-in/check-out, while some rooms have reported a damp smell and bathroom upgrades needed.
- The property has an overall rating of 7.7 out of 10 based on 616 reviews, with high praise for the staff, facilities, cleanliness, comfort, and location.
- The Knife & Cleaver is conveniently located near popular attractions like St Paul’s Square, River Great Ouse, and Embankment Gardens, as well as nearby cities like Cambridge, Luton, Milton Keynes, and Northampton.
Property Overview
The Knife & Cleaver is an AA 4 Gold Star award-winning guest house situated in The Grove, Houghton Conquest, MK45 3LA, United Kingdom.
It’s conveniently located just 15 minutes from Bedford city center and Ampthill rail station.
Guests can enjoy the nearby attractions, including St Paul’s Square, River Great Ouse, and Embankment Gardens.
The guest house offers a range of amenities, including private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and TVs, with some rooms featuring king-size beds.
Travelers can indulge in modern British cuisine at the two on-site restaurants and relax on the terrace or in the bar with real ales.
Rooms and Amenities
Accommodation at the Knife & Cleaver features private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and television sets. The rooms come equipped with modern amenities, and some offer the indulgence of king-size beds. Guests can enjoy their stay in a comfortable and well-appointed environment.
| Rooms | Wi-Fi | Bathroom | TV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Free | Private | Yes |
| Some King-size | – | – | – |
| – | – | – | – |
| – | – | – | – |
The property also boasts two on-site restaurants that serve modern British cuisine, a terrace for alfresco dining, and a bar stocked with real ales, catering to various dining preferences.
Dining Options
Guests at the Knife & Cleaver can enjoy a range of dining options on the premises.
The guest house boasts two on-site restaurants that serve modern British cuisine. Visitors can dine al fresco on the terrace during warmer weather.
The bar also offers a selection of real ales. Last orders are taken at 9:45 PM on weekdays and 9:30 PM on Sundays, providing ample time for guests to savor their meals.
The dining experience at the Knife & Cleaver is praised by reviewers for its excellent food quality and service.
Entertainment and Facilities
At the Knife & Cleaver, guests can enjoy a variety of entertainment and facilities. The guest house offers evening entertainment options for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring.
Guests can also take advantage of the following facilities:
- Non-smoking rooms for a comfortable stay
- Free parking for convenient transportation
- Daily housekeeping to maintain cleanliness
- Express check-in and check-out for a seamless experience
With these amenities, the Knife & Cleaver provides a well-rounded stay for its guests, catering to their needs and preferences.
Guest Feedback and Ratings
According to reviews, guests have overall positive impressions of the Knife & Cleaver, rating it 7.7 out of 10 based on 616 guest reviews.
The staff received high praise, scoring an 8.8. Guests also commended the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort, all scoring above 8. The location was another highlight, earning an 8.6 rating.
Many guests described the food as excellent and the rooms as spacious. However, some reported a damp smell in certain rooms, and the bathrooms were noted as needing upgrades.
Policies and Booking
The Knife & Cleaver offers flexible check-in and check-out times, with guests able to check-in from 2:00 PM up until 11:30 PM and check-out by 10:00 AM.
Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type, and the property welcomes children.
Pets are also allowed with a £10 per night supplement.
The Knife & Cleaver accepts cash payments, and Genius discounts are available for eligible guests.
The property’s policies provide a comfortable and convenient stay for both families and solo travelers.
- Check-in: 2:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Check-out: by 10:00 AM
- Children: welcome
- Pets: allowed with £10 supplement
Nearby Attractions
The Knife & Cleaver’s idyllic country location provides guests with easy access to a variety of nearby attractions. Within a 15-minute drive, visitors can explore the historic St Paul’s Square, stroll along the River Great Ouse, and wander through the scenic Embankment Gardens. The property’s proximity to Bedford city center and Ampthill rail station also makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding region.
| Nearby Attraction | Distance |
|---|---|
| St Paul’s Square | 15 minutes |
| River Great Ouse | 15 minutes |
| Embankment Gardens | 15 minutes |
| Bedford City Center | 15 minutes |
| Ampthill Rail Station | 15 minutes |
Additional Information
Guests at the Knife & Cleaver can enjoy several popular amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a hearty breakfast, and free on-site parking.
The on-site restaurants offer dining until 9:45 PM on weekdays and 9:30 PM on Sundays, ensuring guests can savor the modern British cuisine.
The property is conveniently located near several popular cities, including Cambridge, Luton, Milton Keynes, and Northampton, allowing guests to explore the local attractions.
Plus, the rooms are accessible even when the pub is closed, providing guests with flexibility and privacy during their stay.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Hearty breakfast
- Free on-site parking
- Convenient location near popular cities
Questions About Staying Here
What Are the Operating Hours of the On-Site Restaurants?
The on-site restaurants operate with last orders at 21:45 Monday to Saturday, and 21:30 on Sundays, providing guests with modern British cuisine and the option for alfresco dining on the terrace.
Do the Rooms Have Blackout Curtains or Blinds?
The rooms at the property have blackout curtains or blinds to ensure a comfortable and restful stay. This feature allows for a better night’s sleep, especially during the summer months when daylight lingers longer.
Is There a Minimum Stay Requirement for Bookings?
There’s no mention of a minimum stay requirement in the information provided. Most guest houses don’t have a minimum stay, though some may require a 1 or 2-night minimum on weekends or holidays.
Are There Any Special Events or Theme Nights Organized?
The guest house doesn’t appear to have any special events or theme nights listed on its website. However, it does offer evening entertainment options, so guests should check with the property directly for any special programming during their stay.
Is There a Guest Laundry Service Available On-Site?
The guest house does not provide a laundry service on-site. Guests will need to make their own arrangements for laundry during their stay, such as using a local dry cleaner or laundromat in the area.
Worth The Stay
The Knife & Cleaver offers a delightful country retreat in the picturesque village of Houghton Conquest. Guests can enjoy modern British cuisine, real ales, and cozy accommodations with free Wi-Fi and luxurious beds. Whether visiting for a relaxing getaway or to explore the local attractions, the hotel’s warm hospitality, excellent facilities, and stunning rural location promise a memorable stay.