Travelodge The Regent Hotel Leamington Spa Hotel

We had a room by the staircase, number 208, and could hear everyone around us being quiet. The floors creak a bit, but I liked that the room had character. The hotel has recently been refurbished, and its history, Grade II listing, grand staircase and stained glass windows make it a stunning building. The rooms are grand, with high ceilings, though it is still Travelodge. They supplied two bath towels and a hand towel, but no longer provide bath mats. Hand wash and shampoo come in dispensers. Parking costs extra in a nearby multi-storey, but the room was so cheap that paying for parking was fine.

The building looks pretty inside and out, and the staff were friendly when we arrived. Our room was spacious but cold, with an old heater instead of air con. It clearly needs some updating, though we'd expected that from previous stays at Travelodge. The bath was small, there was just one towel for both of us, and the TV was small too.

The room was basic but clean and had what I needed, including spare pillows. Breakfast is served to go since there isn't a restaurant on site. They made that clear when I booked, and for a weekend stay I was happy to eat at Gail’s or other local cafes. From check-in to the end, the staff were attentive and friendly, and helped me get an iron and extra cutlery. I stayed in room 315 at the Travelodge in Leamington for two nights over Halloween weekend while DJing at a local club. My door lock was faulty and wouldn't lock from the inside. It didn't bother me much since I was getting back at 3 or 4am and had no valuables with me. The main doors are locked at 10pm, and only guests with a hotel key can enter, which made travelling alone feel safer. I'm sure they'd have changed my room if I'd asked, but it was a busy weekend and I didn't feel it was a big deal. I'll book again if I come back.

I left in the morning without anyone acknowledging the problems. The receptionist was alone and I had to wait for the queue to clear before getting help. I showered in the same room as the blocked toilet, with a filthy shower curtain that didn't keep the water in. After the first room was used and unmade, I went back down to reception. They prepared another room, but its toilet was blocked right up to the rim and the smell was awful. The door on that room pushed open without being unlocked. Its hinges looked damaged, though it would lock from inside; if you pulled it really hard, it did close, but be careful. I took all my valuables with me in my coat. I'm never going back. That old radio ad should say, “Shouldn't av booked a Travelodge.”