Mercure St Albans The Noke

We came for a funeral reception, our first visit, and found the hotel welcoming, small and intimate, with a light, fresh feel. It's easy to reach straight off the Noke roundabout, and parking was simple, including blue badge facilities. The young staff were attentive. The toilets were clean and smelled lovely, which matters, though someone larger might find the cubicle a squeeze. Sandwiches had a good selection, and the afternoon tea and coffee were very good. A great first experience of a Mercure, though the prices might be high, so check them first.

I gave it three stars because my note in the online booking wasn't noticed, and my room was a long walk away. It was still a nice walk, and the room itself was nice. The staff were accommodating, and I liked the main house, its older furniture and the lovely, full gardens and flowers.

The rooms were simple but had what we needed, and the food at the hotel was lovely. I was also happy to see biodegradable takeaway boxes instead of plastic tubs, plus paper straws. The staff were friendly, and access to the pool, sauna and steam room was a big plus. The location worked perfectly for us: a 15-minute drive to explore St Albans and its stunning cathedral, and 15 minutes the other way to Harry potter world.

The wedding disruption made our stay quite disappointing. We weren't told before or when we arrived that a wedding was booked that night, and only found out while trying to use the facilities. The restaurant was closed, and so was the spa, though we'd been looking forward to a romantic evening there. Reception should have warned us when booking or before arrival and offered an alternative. When we left, the receptionist was friendly but didn't ask how our stay had been. The hotel looks well presented outside and in the communal areas, but the bedroom decor is dated, and the carpets and some features badly need replacing or a good clean. The facilities otherwise seem good, though we couldn't use them. Staff were friendly, and most were professional. The people in the hotel bar went out of their way to make sure we had a nice evening. At another time it could have been a nice stay. The location is convenient for attractions, but isn't picturesque or attractive.