Le Grand Hôtel de Valenciennes

I booked several nights ahead, but if I'd known what it was like, I would've packed up after the first one. The room was passable but extremely old, with barely any water pressure, water that wasn't hot, and windows that didn't close properly. There were used contact lenses on the nightstand and an empty bottle under the bed. The restaurant was very expensive, and although the food was decent, it wasn't worth the cost. Breakfast was poor too: dry, stale croissants, runny scrambled eggs that I didn't try again after the first day, and bacon that had touched the stove but wasn't cooked enough. Having to search the “clean plates” pile for a clean plate was disgusting. Nobody spoke English. I understand that in the countryside, but hotel staff should have a basic grasp of the language. I won't be back anytime soon.

This place has stayed true to its original Art Deco style. It's a little worn, but full of history and soul, like a trip back in time. Most hotels are forgettable, but this one sticks with you. I'd recommend it.

We've stayed at the Grand Hotel five times while visiting family, and it's always been great value. It's central, just across from the train station, and an easy walk into town. The rooms we've had were all comfortable and suited our needs, with comfy beds and sometimes bold colours like bright red walls or orange bathroom tiles. Staff are consistently friendly and helpful, and speak several languages. Breakfast is tasty, with good coffee. Parking costs extra per night, and there's also Payant street parking nearby. The building is an old Art Deco hotel. It would be lovely to see it restored to its full glory, though that would take a big investment. We'll happily stay here again when we're in Valenciennes.

For a business night, the room was okay, though I wouldn't choose it for a private trip. It was cold, which suited me, and the bathroom was old fashioned but very large, with strong shower pressure. The pillows were great, but the bed was too soft for my back. I was disappointed by breakfast: no scrambled eggs, just an omelette made from fully industrial, processed eggs, and very little charcuterie. My room faced a closed patio with no view. The decor was neither new nor charmingly old, more like the 70s, with Formica furniture.