Wilsons Hotel - Blackpool Tower View

We left as soon as we saw the room. Both beds were unmade, pillows propped up as if someone had just got up, and the quilts were heaped on top. On the small table sat half-finished cups of coffee and a wet, squeezed-out teabag. My son said the bathroom was damp and dirty, though I didn't see it myself. The room was a complete dump. When I asked if it was someone's room, the girl said she'd bring clean sheets and make it up. That confirmed we weren't staying. The front room shown on Booking.com had a brown leather suite and looked lovely. The actual front room was cluttered with boxes, like a pig sty. At check-in, a man smoking by the door asked, "can I get you something?" I said we were there to check in. A woman, who I think was his partner, told us several times she hadn't expected us and "the boss never said". I'd checked Booking.com before booking. The reviews seemed okay and the photos looked nice, nothing fancy. It was a weekend away with my 26 year old son: we wanted a clean B&B, a good night's sleep, a shower in the morning, then a music festival. That was where the positives stopped. I'd have seen the horror stories on Trip Advisor, including accounts of the manager taking payment even after guests left in disgust and refusing refunds. The only positive for me was that I wasn't charged, though he tried and disputed Booking.com's position. I told him I'd visit in the morning if even one penny came out of my account. I didn't go, but he had two missed calls from me as we left. I gave the key back and we went. Booking.com were friendly but not much help at first. They offered £12 in credits as goodwill and said the hotel refused to agree, so I'd have to pay £108 for three nights. After I texted the boss directly, Booking.com emailed to say the charge had been waived. I've never experienced anything like this. In my opinion it's blatant fraud to advertise a place that doesn't remotely match the photos. Please don't put yourself through it. If you still have any doubt, book it, but that's on your own head. Leave a review to warn others. I've attached pictures of what we found. The location is fairly close to the Tower and was decent for our plans. Personally, if I hadn't been going to Winter Gardens, I'd have preferred the South Pier end.

Wilson’s lodge was revolting. There was blood on several walls, mould throughout, cockroaches, holes in the walls, mattresses stained with what looked like urine, and signs of past drug use. It was disgusting. If I could give it no stars, I would.

They were so kind, and came to our rescue after we had a problem with another hotel. The English breakfast was great, and they had a vegetarian option too. The best hosts in blackpool!

The Tower looked beautiful from the window, and my nan and I had a wonderful stay. The host was charming and kept a caring eye on her because of her various health issues. Our bedroom was spotless and comfortable, and we felt so welcome that we're definitely coming back. Five stars for everything might seem odd, but for what you pay, the experience really is excellent.