Ashley Hotel

We'd stay again. It was good value, and the hotel was easy to reach, in a handy spot just a short walk across the common into the centre. The room was clean, and the receptionist was very helpful. Parking was free, and they kindly let us leave the car there until evening while we went sightseeing in Cambridge. 🙂

The breakfast was great, with cereal, continental options and a cooked breakfast. Ours came hot and freshly cooked, and the portion was just right. There was James, marmalade and honey for toast. The person serving us was funny and happy to help. Everyone was friendly. Our room was spacious, clean and had plenty of storage, and the bed was very comfortable. The temperature in the room was nice too. The bath is quite narrow, though it didn't bother us. They have to work with the space available, but if that matters to you, you might want to request a room with a shower. There's lots of parking, and a bus stops almost outside. Ask for the day traveller ticket. It's a very short ride into Cambridge. Even though the hotel is on a main road, we didn't hear much traffic. Light sleepers might want a room away from the entrance, because the door bangs quite loudly when it shuts. It's not accessible for wheelchair users, as there are steps to the entrance and down to reception. On arrival you press the buzzer and wait for someone to let you in. After check-in you get two key cards, which is handy. Sunday check-out is at 11am, and although we left well before then, it made the morning feel less rushed. I'd definitely stay again.

The location is great, there's parking, the bedding and towels were clean, and the breakfast was good. The women serving it were lovely. Everything else was a problem. The hotel is run down: dirty windows, flaking paint, and things falling apart. The bathroom had black mould stains and limescale everywhere. There's no receptionist outside check-in times, so no one to help with complaints or other issues. I heard there are plans to upgrade the hotel, so perhaps they're waiting for that before spending anything on it.

The rooms are dated but clean, and our bed was comfortable with a hot shower. We were at the top of the house, so there were lots of stairs, but it was okay. Breakfast was lovely, and Jackie and Judy were friendly and helpful. It's bed and breakfast only, though The Old Spring pub next door is nice and stays open until 11pm. The location is great, about a 20-minute walk to the centre or a 10-minute bus ride.