Hôtel Cathédrale, Lisieux

My room was small but quiet, and the linen was clean. Otherwise, it seems they've given up cleaning the place. There was dust and a bit of rubbish in the bathroom, and the maintenance work was very amateur. I won't go there again.

The location is ideal for a holiday, within minutes' walk of most buildings, museums, and cathedrals in such a historic, interesting city. My room was huge, with windows overlooking the St Peter Cathedral square. It was beautiful to see the Christmas lights and the decorated tree from my window. Breakfast was always fresh, and the bathroom was huge, comfortable, and clean, just like the bedroom. The hotel and staff were very welcoming, and they went out of their way to offer advice and help. Thank you.

The room I stayed in during August 2015 looked nothing like the photos on the website. I'm not sure how those photos were made, so look at the room you're booking before paying. The room was barely large enough to move around the bed, and the hotel was overpriced, poorly furnished, and shoddily decorated. It was a Best Western until 2012, but isn't anymore, even though 'bw' is still part of its email address. Avoid at all costs.

Parking opposite the hotel was very easy and free overnight, from 6pm till 9am. The room was nice, clean, cool, and quiet. There's a nice little restaurant around the corner, le Duplex, with lovely food and good value, and a boulangerie opposite for morning goodies before heading off.