ibis budget Saint-Quentin Centre Gare

The room was compact, but very clean and set up thoughtfully, with everything we needed to a good standard. The beds were really comfortable. At 23:00, three kind, lovely reception staff welcomed us and helped us out. The morning team were friendly too, and happy to answer our questions. A few of us thought another soap dispenser by the sink would have been useful. The hotel had a cheerful, friendly feel.

The streets were quiet for a city centre hotel, and a short ten minute walk took us to the central square and its lovely buildings. The immediate area around the hotel felt a bit downbeat. We were driving back to the UK from Italy and wanted to stay within six hours or so, close enough to Calais for a midday ferry. From near Chambery it was just over 400 miles and about six hours, so we booked this Ibis budget near the centre of Saint-Quentin, which we'd never visited before. The room layout was odd: the toilet was enclosed, but its PIR light was annoying if you got up during the night and didn't want to disturb your partner. The shower was in the main room, and the sink sat on a central pedestal. We wondered if we'd accidentally booked an Ibis Styles, but no, this was a budget. The Wi-Fi was good, staff were helpful, and there was secure parking for a fee. You could also buy small bottles of wine at reception. The downside was the thin walls. When the people next door slammed their door, our headboard shook. There was quite a bit of noise inside, so it's probably not a place for a lie in. Breakfast included a very nice croissant, but no orange juice, only apple or multi fruit, which not everyone liked. There was no yogurt either, usually a petit-déjeuner staple in France. Still, it wasn't the worst we'd had.

The receptionist gave us a very friendly welcome, and we had a good dinner next door at the Annexe. The room worked perfectly for the three of us: our little one loved the bunk bed, and the double bed was comfortable. Very good all round!

We needed a room at the last minute, and while I was unsure about booking the budget Ibis, it turned out well. Check-in was easy, the staff were friendly, and the rooms were spotless and just right, with a great shower, separate toilet, TV and air conditioning. Private parking for €6 was a bonus. We added breakfast for €9.50 each, and there was loads of choice. The breakfast staff were friendly too. I'd definitely recommend it.