Best Western Banbury House

The staff were friendly, and it was a pleasant stay. At the back entrance, reception was nicely decorated and clean, with chairs, sofas, tables, and a small bar. We had two first-floor rooms. They looked tired, but were clean, with polished old-fashioned furniture and nice white bedding. The doubles were really small, a squeeze for two. The bathroom was clean but dated, and could use a walk-in shower for guests with limited mobility. The rusty grab handle was in the wrong place, and the clean shower curtain felt old-fashioned.

We had a bar meal one of our three nights, and it was very good. Breakfast was top quality, the towels were perfect, and the room was clean and tidy. When we arrived, the room wasn't suitable because my wife couldn't manage the bathtub. Reception changed it straight away, without hesitation. Every staff member was attentive and polite. One of the best mini breaks we've had anywhere in England. Highly recommended.

The route to our room, No. 130, was a real trek with luggage: two flights of stairs, several fire doors, and repeated trips up and down. There's no elevator, and it was as far from reception as possible. We're in our late 50s and early 60s, so make sure you can manage the climb. I'm unsure how wheelchair users would fare, so check ahead if you have mobility issues. Breakfast costs extra. The room was quiet, clean, and comfortable, with a kettle, two mugs, instant tea and coffee, a small table and two chairs, a computer desk, and a flat-screen TV that could've been better placed. The bathroom was bright and clean, with soap, body and hair wash, an extractor fan, walk-in shower, nice towels, and good bedding. There's also a dining area and a bar with comfortable armchairs. Town is an easy five-minute walk downhill. On the whole it was nice, apart from hauling our bags over the Himalayas.

The lobby was so peaceful. I enjoyed sitting there with the paper on Sunday morning. We only booked one night, and I wish we'd stayed longer. The helpful, pleasant staff made it a lovely visit. Our clean room was lovely, and the beds were comfortable. I only heard one bit of noise, my husband's faint snoring. We chose to have breakfast, which was delicious with plenty of choice.