Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - Castle Bromwich by IHG

The one thing I’d change is the lack of plugs beside the bed, so charging my phone meant leaving it across the room. The room itself was nice, and I liked being able to choose soft or firm pillows. The place was clean, neat and welcoming, and the included breakfast was delicious. Staff were incredibly friendly and ready to help. I checked in very late, around 9-10pm, and think reception may be open 24 hours, which would be useful if so.

This was a last-minute booking after circumstances outside my control meant I had to stay for a week a couple of years ago. As I’m disabled, I needed a specially adapted room, which staff kept immaculate. I also needed carers, and staff showed them directly to my room so they could help me. Everyone was amazing and looked after me perfectly. Nothing seemed too much trouble. They have my recommendation.

I usually stay at Travelodge, but this felt a step up. The staff were friendly, the air-conditioned room was great, and the pillows and sheets were super soft. I slept really well, even with it around 20 degrees outside. There was a large TV and a cooked buffet breakfast included. The shower head leaked from its hose, and the toilet made a horrible noise when flushed. I reported both to reception, and they were glad to have the information. I would’ve liked a bath option instead of only having a shower, as lots of budget hotels are doing this now. Some reviews say certain rooms don’t have air conditioning; I may have been lucky to get one in the new part.

The rooms were clean and comfortable, and breakfast was included in the rate, so it felt like good value. We stayed for two nights and felt welcome throughout. The real standout was the night service managers, D & D. They both went the extra mile, and the customer service was the best we've had in a long time across hotels in Britain and Europe.