Travelodge Merthyr Tydfil Hotel

Check-in was quick, but there was little conversation and no information, including directions to the room. In both rooms we had just one key and one set of towels despite booking for two adults; they did bring more towels, but only after we asked. In the first room, the toilet started leaking within a couple of days and caused a damp smell. Reception was often unmanned, but a different, very helpful woman moved us promptly to a nearby room that was much better. The walls are thin, so you can hear everything from neighbouring rooms and the hallways. The second room’s toilet was fine, but the TV remote didn’t work. Facilities are very limited: only two sugars a day for two adults, terrible coffee, barely any clothing storage, no hairdryers, and we had to live out of a suitcase on the floor. We left the sign out for a top-up, went out in the morning, and came back late afternoon to no top-up and no cleaning. We had to ask for supplies, including toilet roll. The handwash was almost empty in both rooms, and the beds in both rooms squeaked badly even when we just rolled over at night.

This was great value for money in a quiet location, and I’d stay again if I’m back in the area. It’s close to the train station, restaurants, bars, cinema, and bowling. The staff were rarely at the desk, so sometimes I had to wait for someone to come out of the office, but when they did they were helpful and friendly. I booked breakfast to go online, but the site didn’t say what it included. I was disappointed to get a small box with cereal and a few things, though that was an online fault rather than the travel lodge itself.

My wife and I were woken after midnight by a man entering our room. He said, “sorry, I thought the room was empty.” We later found a note pushed under the door confirming he was a member of staff. The incident left my wife distraught, and she couldn’t sleep afterwards. There was nobody at reception in the morning for us to raise it with. It’s concerning that hotel staff don’t know which rooms are occupied.

The rooms are clean enough and good value, and they’re happy to let you bring your bike into the room as long as it’s clean. I come for Bike Park Wales and will keep booking Travelodge when I’m in the area.