Ramada by Wyndham Bristol West

The restaurant was the unexpected highlight. We could have dinner and breakfast there instead of relying on the rather poor quality food at the services. For a hotel at a motorway service site, it was surprisingly good. Our room was clean and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Just be careful with the parking route: you can’t get from the services car park to the hotel car park without driving all the way around the motorway junction roundabout.

The room was in a terrible state when we woke up. There were stains on the beds, dirt on the floor, and some kind of debris on the cabinets and table. The shower had no hot water either. Reception said they would check the boiler room, but never called back to tell us what was happening. With checkout getting close, we ended up having cold showers, which was especially unpleasant in this weather. Parking was a problem from the start. We called to ask about it because space was so limited, and customer service told us it was included. Then we were charged when we arrived, which felt like a hidden charge. We were exhausted, so after checking in my friend and I went straight to sleep. Checkout was just as disappointing. The receptionist didn’t ask how our stay had been, and the woman at reception came across as rude and arrogant. I don’t know whether we were treated differently because of our ethnicity, but it left me wondering about possible racial discrimination. Hotels I’ve stayed at before have asked how everything went. This service was very unprofessional, and I was very disappointed.

The room was a decent size, warm, clean and tidy, and it was quiet being tucked off to one side. Thanks to Christy and her team for keeping it so clean. It’s about 7 minutes from Cribbs Causeway, well signposted within the service area, and convenient for visiting family. Members can get a late checkout, and we’ll stay again. One thing that annoyed me: parking cost £5 a day, even though the website says it’s free. I only noticed afterwards, otherwise I would have challenged the charge at the time.

The windows didn’t shut all the way, so passing traffic could be heard. That was my only real complaint. Rooms are spacious and clean, and the bathroom is big and clean too. The drench shower was a nice surprise. Tea and coffee are provided, though the hair dryer is tucked away in a drawer. Rooms aren’t refreshed each day, so ask at the front desk if you need replacement items. It’s a cheap, basic place next to M5 junction 19 Portbury. The staff are friendly and efficient, and you can get meals and drinks until late. For getting into Bristol, I used the Port Way park and ride instead of Long Ashton P&R since it’s easier to reach and easier to pick up in town. I’d stay here again as long as it’s still good value.