Royal Hotel Kettering

We got a cheap rate, which is why this gets three stars. The beds were clean, but the bathroom wasn't, and the shower rail collapsed when we pulled the curtain. The room was dated, as we expected. The restaurant was closed in the middle of summer, and it wasn't just a temporary closure. There were very few staff, and the place felt dirty and poorly run. It's got the basics for a cheap overnight stop, but the facilities are questionable. I'd only come back as a last resort if I were on a budget and needed one night.

I've had a really good stay since arriving yesterday. The heating in my room wasn't working and I was chilly, but staff got maintenance to look at it within about 10 minutes. After a brief test, they moved me to another room that was lovely and warm, and offered my first evening meal on the house as a goodwill gesture. Everyone I've met here has been kind, polite, patient and professional. They respond promptly, listen, and are a real credit to this OYO hotel. The fresh, inviting food has a lively menu. I also like the dated exterior and interior. It's a refreshing change from the many ultra-modern but bland hotels I've stayed in. I'd recommend it and would come back if I'm in the area.

I was there for 35 days. It's in a nice location and the rooms are nice, but none of the rooms had basic furniture like a table and chair for working. You can get them on request, though I had to fetch mine from storage myself. There weren't enough staff, and service didn't feel professional. The floors shake and there's no soundproofing, so we could hear loud songs from the next room. It's manageable for a short stay.

The fridge was so noisy I couldn't sleep, and there wasn't any toilet paper, so I had to shower after using the toilet. The room itself was filthy and hadn't been cleaned, with beer cans scattered around and a random fridge freezer inside. It looked like someone was living there. The Night Porter was rude and disrespectful, seemed drunk, ignored my complaints and wouldn't offer me another room. I want my money back.