Belvilla Aberdeen Bridge of Don Sea VIew

The room was clean and respectable, though it’s only serviced after you leave if you’re staying more than one night. The rates are good for Aberdeen. It’s just recently changed hands and still needs some care. There’s no bar or restaurant, and only one of the lifts is working, so plan to eat out or have a takeaway delivered.

For the price, this is a comfortable stay and very good value. The team were friendly, professional and efficient, and my room had a comfortable bed with crisp sheets, a warm duvet and good pillows. The 55-inch smart TV was impressive, and the Wi-Fi worked quickly and reliably. The room decor is a little tired, though the rooms are otherwise very good. There’s no air conditioning, just a portable heater and fan. The kettle is there, but you’ll need to bring your own tea and coffee, and there’s no room phone. The bar isn’t open at the moment, although the kitchen offers a limited menu, including breakfast. It’s in Bridge of Don, around five miles from Aberdeen centre and the train and bus stations. A bus stops on the main road and runs fairly regularly from early until late, linking with town and the stations. There’s a large car park, but parking costs extra and has to be paid for online. McDonald’s, KFC and Starbucks are about a two-minute walk away, and Lidl is a mile away. The outside and grounds look neglected, with long grass and litter, so they don’t make a great first impression. It used to be a Holiday Inn Express, and the old signs are still up. OYO Belvilla has taken over the somewhat worn building. Inside, the customer service and comfortable rooms make it a worthwhile place to stay.

I felt unsafe here. The people staying there were intimidating, and the staff seemed uninterested. The place was filthy, with bin bags left around, and it smelled like beer, drugs and vomit. When I asked for a cup for the tea facilities, I was simply told no. It was below any standard I’ve experienced in the UK. Avoid it.

Booked at the last minute for a low price, so I wasn’t expecting much. The hotel was spotless, though, and the room was spacious with a clean, comfortable bed.