The George & Dragon

The bar and food service were genuinely good, and the staff I spoke to there were friendly. Breakfast was pleasant enough and checking out was easy, but I wouldn't return, especially before the hoped-for major refurb. The place feels tired and neglected rather than quaint, despite being an old building. I was told it was due to close in May for a full refurb, which sounds much needed. My room was stiflingly hot and stuffy, with only a limited breeze, road noise from the high street, and patchy Wi-Fi. The small TV didn't work because there was no aerial feed, and the Juliette-style balcony doors were screwed shut. The room itself was large, with a small staircase that first caught my interest. The bathroom had a strange electrical setup: the lights and socket wouldn't work unless you found a hidden switch by the room door. The sink looked as if it had seen better days, and there was a clearly marked trip hazard on the way to the toilet. I didn't sleep well. Getting there was frustrating too. Nobody greeted me at reception, and ringing the bell several times got no response. I went back to the car to look for the pay-and-display machine and couldn't find it. Lighting the machine at night would be a helpful idea. Back inside, reception was still empty, so I went to the bar and eventually found someone who was pleasant enough. I was given room 6 and warned that some rooms don't have a working TV aerial feed. I travel often and will try a new hotel, but this time I wish I'd stuck with a better-known chain.