Sapphire Suite-citycentre-luxury-freeparking

We slept better here than we have in ages, thanks in part to the amazing pillows. The stylish suite was well equipped, and the bath was wonderful, with an amazing shower too. They left complimentary items that we appreciated. The welcome was fantastic, and all the staff were friendly and professional. Breakfast had plenty of choices for different dietary needs. It's a lovely oasis near the city centre. We'll definitely come back and recommend it to others.

On the morning we were leaving, my baby vomited after breakfast. I'd been told before arrival that I could ask about a complimentary late check-out that morning, so I rang reception to request a little extra time to clean him up. When they asked how long, I said as long as possible because it was stressful. The receptionist immediately said they'd send a payment link. I explained I only needed 10 to 20 minutes, but they repeated that a payment link would be sent. The lack of empathy, courtesy and flexibility was shocking. I'd also requested a cot, extra pillows and towels for my infant son the day before we arrived. None of them had been provided or set up when we got to the room. When I asked for two bathrobes and slippers, reception kept insisting I would have to pay £100 per night to upgrade to a suite. Denying a first-time guest those basic items to push an upgrade was disappointing, and made me wonder if the hotel was aiming for premium service or settling for a 3-star experience. There was a significant amount of dust beside the bed. That lack of basic cleanliness and care was especially concerning with an infant.

The staff were helpful and professional, and the facilities were clean. The restaurants and bar looked lovely. Our room and bathroom were clean too, but the room was small and the bed seemed like a double. We'd stayed at Clayton in Manchester before, so I chose the Birmingham hotel expecting similar value. The Manchester executive room was more spacious and beautiful, so this one didn't meet my expectations. We paid through Groupon for an executive room with breakfast and dinner. Breakfast was a tasty buffet with a good range of choices. Dinner was awful, though. Because our package included it, we had to order from a separate menu with only three options. I couldn't eat mine. The dessert was yummy.

The main drawback was being unable to set the room temperature. The heating seemed to be centralised, with no visible thermostat or separate heater, and the room often felt too cold. The shower pressure was also weaker than I'd expect at a hotel of this standard, although hot water was always available and reliable. Otherwise, I was very comfortable, especially in the bed, and had a great night's sleep. The Clayton Hotel Birmingham is ideally placed near Moor Street Railway Station, with easy access to the Bullring and Grand Central. Aston University and a large grocery store are nearby too, which is convenient for business or leisure. I'd happily stay again. The location and comfort earn it 4 out of 5 for me.