Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel

The breakfast portions were VERY generous, unlike anything I’ve seen in the UK. But I would have traded that for a good night’s sleep in a cool room. We weren’t told that the floor we booked had no air-conditioning, which was rough in summer. And during our four-night stay, they only changed the sheets once, so you can guess how many times anyone came by!

We booked at the last minute so we could be near our daughter for her birthday. Her accommodation was just a stone’s throw away, and the campus location meant we could see her often. The spot is great for local shops, pubs, restaurants and clubs, with the town centre about five minutes away by car or a 15-minute walk. For our two days, the service was prompt and polite. The room itself could be improved, though. The shower curtain didn’t keep the bathroom dry, and an enclosed cubicle would have made it tidier. We asked for extra towels but weren’t given any. The Wi-Fi was horrendous during the day and caused serious trouble while we worked remotely. With guests always staying there, the hotel could do better with its broadband.

I woke up with bedbug bites and managed to kill one and take pictures. There are bedbugs and silverfish in the rooms, and the silverfish are also in the university dorms next door. After a hard day’s work, it was a traumatic experience. Staff moved me at 4am for two hours because a room was available, but they had no bug spray or treatment options.

Breakfast had a healthy variety, including smoked salmon, asparagus and fruit compote, and the town centre is only a 20-minute walk away. The hotel feels welcoming, thanks even more to the staff. My accessible king-size double was great value, with a comfortable bed and a spacious wet-room bathroom. Definitely a great place to stay.