Birmingham Best Inn Hotel

I was told this was a hotel, but later found out it was apparently temporary accommodation. There was period blood on the walls, a strange smell, and kids screaming for hours. Nobody cleaned up after themselves in the kitchen. Staff said there was no heating and gave me a plug-in heater. People set off the fire alarm at 10 pm. I would never stay here again.

I keep coming back, this was my FOURTH stay, and the staff make me feel genuinely cared for. The late-night visits to my room, even with the lights out, were an unexpected bit of fun. I could hear my things being moved around, and one staff member checked my pulse while I slept, which was reassuring. Around 10pm I also got a surprise vaccination at the bar. I’m not sure what it was for, since I fell asleep soon after, but staff kindly walked me back and helped me get ready for bed. There are so many good things about staying here. My one gripe is the Birmingham location, but it doesn’t outweigh the rest. I feel loved here.

I slept on the floor in the end because the bed springs were so noticeable, and the toilet wouldn’t flush or get fixed. The place has a Victorian feel that could have been lovely, but the current management has let it deteriorate badly. Wallpaper is peeling or torn, with no sign of repairs, and the room felt uncared for. During my stay, someone searched my luggage and a piece of jewelry disappeared. Staff weren’t very welcoming either. When I asked where I could get food, I was told the takeaway only opened in the evening, though I later saw a McDonald’s right near the hotel. I also needed an extension lead for medical equipment, but they couldn’t provide one because the sockets were at the other side of the room. There was an argument between several men and a woman on my first night, and I got the impression the place might be used as an undercover brothel. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone hoping for a relaxing night.

I refused to stay once I saw the state of the place. Outside the door were two buckets of used fryer oil, and the smell was awful. Inside, the carpets were badly fitted, with sharp nails sticking out, and wallpaper was coming away from the walls. The lobby had a strong weed smell, and I saw prostitutes going up and down the stairs with men. My son’s room had mouldy sheets on the bed. The first room I was given hadn’t been cleaned, with empty pizza boxes and wine bottles left behind; the replacement was dark and dungeon-like. They wouldn’t refund me, saying the payment had already been processed. I called around 30 times to complain, but was told a manager was never working. I also emailed head office 10 times with videos and photos and got no reply. Apparently, they don’t have a phone number either. This company is a joke, and I’d say staying there risks your health.