The Ladbrooke Hotel

I've stayed in hotels abroad and in the UK, but never anywhere I'd describe as a cesspit with a bed. The sheets were disgusting, the carpet was stained, and the toilet didn't work. I tried talking to management to get it fixed, but they didn't seem interested, even though a working toilet is basic. The staff were too busy on their phones, talking to people in India. Please save your money and your hygiene standards and avoid this place.

I contacted them spontaneously late at night, looking for somewhere to sleep in the morning. They said it was possible and told me to come by. Four hours later, when I arrived, the man at the phone number they'd given me had no idea what I was talking about and sent me away.

The room was enormous, beautiful, and spotless, with lovely decor, great lighting, grand furniture, a sofa, and plenty of complimentary items. It had two huge bathrooms, so we could get ready separately. We'd arrived early, but that wasn't a problem. After a full day of shopping on our girls' weekend, we were starving while getting ready to go out again. Room service brought up a scrumptious pizza in no time. Later, the staff welcomed us warmly at the bar in the amazing lobby. The bed was so comfortable, and when I called reception late at night for an extra pillow for my friend, they brought more straight away. We had the best sleep. Breakfast was a perfectly cooked full English with toast and tea, just what we needed. When we went to pay, the manager surprised us by saying the pizza was on the house, since we hadn't paid for it. Two very happy ladies. I've been meaning to write this review for a while. They run the hotel with pride and make guests feel special. Thank you for making us feel like princesses. We'll be back soon, and what a bargain this hotel is.

The staff were welcoming and helpful, and there was enough parking for guests. The lobby is small but comfortable, and the hotel is very close to the city centre. It could use some modernisation. Heating worked well in the lobby and rooms, though the basement function hall was less warm. The hall is used for seminars, conferences and receptions. The disabled toilet down there needs attention: its lock has been broken for months, and management has put a wooden chair inside to wedge the door shut. My stay was satisfactory.