In spite of the naysayers and other poor reviews we approached our stay here with open minds and hearts - and we weren't disappointed!
I will accede that the immediate area around the building itself looks a little unkempt and unloved but if you look beyond that to the property and the facilities it's a very different ball game!
Everything inside was clean, the reception area, bar, restaurant and the room, which was surprisingly spacious with a nice comfy bed and a nice, bright, clean bathroom. There were tea/coffee making facilities, trouser press, wardrobe (rather than a dismal hanging rail) and hair dryer and obviously a good sized TV.
The restaurant/breakfast room is sufficiently large with plenty of tables, but not so close together that it feels claustrophobic.
The breakfasts are legendary, with almost everything you could wish for, from fresh fruit & croissants through to cereals, porridge, right up to a very ample Full English with all the trimmings, followed by tea, coffee, juice, as much as you wanted.
Next, the staff - every one we met was warm, courteoous and welcoming, all of them. There were two that, in our estimation went above & beyond - Sharma, who seemed to be a Jack of All Trades, and master of all of them!! In the restaurant he was the epitome of quiet efficiency, even when bring pilloried by other, very disrespectful guests, so top marks Sharma for rising above all that and letting your character shine through!! The other was the female housekeeper!!