Yarnfield Park Training Centre

It was peaceful, though there isn't much right nearby. Shops and other places are a drive into Stone. The gym is small with limited equipment, and it was usually full in the early evening. The restaurant is in the main building and works like a canteen. There was plenty of food and a good range; lunch was my favourite, with the day guests catered for too. The basic rooms are in blocks a short walk away, cleaned daily and more than satisfactory. Mine didn't have a hairdryer, which wasn't a big deal for me but might matter to someone else.

I spent five nights here for Estate Agency training. The grounds are lovely, the location is great, the rooms were good value, and there was a nice range of food. What made the place special was the team. The cleaners, caretakers, reception, kitchen staff and managers were all extremely friendly and attentive, and they made me feel at home. Sarah at reception is lovely, Andy the maintenance man is a good laugh, and George the manager was a pleasure to meet. People helped out across departments. I saw George pouring drinks at the bar and serving food in the restaurant, and I suspect he was washing dishes in the kitchen too. A proper leader and team player.

The cheap bar was about the only upside. The room's heating was blasting, and even after I switched it off it stayed boiling, so I couldn't sleep. The bed was incredibly uncomfortable, and the rooms looked like they'd been furnished with things donated from your gran's house. The reception felt like the entrance to a leisure centre. I've never stayed anywhere this bad. If your company books this for a conference, it's time to find a new job. Even illegal immigrants are held in better hotels. I'd avoid it at all costs if you can, unless getting p*ssed at the bar helps you sleep.

We came for a course that ran over two nights and three days, and were really impressed by the helpful staff and the food. The rooms were warm, comfortable and clean, with everything we needed. The conference room was comfortable and had everything we needed as well. The food was so good, especially for the price we paid. A great place to book for a conference or course.