The Gissons Hotel

Sherwyn answered when I called at 11pm on a Friday, even though most places wouldn't pick up then, and helped me arrange a last-minute stop in the car park with my motorhome. He wanted nothing in return and even offered to enter my registration in the Parking Eye system to save me doing it in the morning. The staff were lovely, friendly and polite, and went well beyond what I'd expect to make the stay easy and relaxed. The bar and restaurant were closed for refurbishment, so I couldn't thank them by eating or having a drink there the next morning. Great location, and I'd highly recommend a visit.

The place has a great location and potential, and the Saturday night room price was very reasonable, but it didn't quite come together for us. On arrival at 3:30pm the doors were locked, the intercom went unanswered, and it took a phone call to get in. We waited at reception until a woman arrived, apparently surprised to see us, though she was friendly and showed us the room, checking that we were happy. The room was clean and warm, but very cramped, with little room to move. A floor air-conditioning unit in the corner flashed blue all night, and the soap dispensers kept falling out of their wall brackets. Since it's on Exeter's outskirts, a drink in the evening or breakfast in the morning would have been nice, but the bar and dining room were under repair, which seems to come up in other reviews too. I also wonder whether checking in at 10pm would have worked after the trouble we had at 3:30. I hope they sort things out, but for £15 more I'd probably stay somewhere else next time.

Erika made me feel at home from the moment she welcomed me. She was consistently friendly and helpful, and my room was always tidy with fresh towels. When I had a parking problem, she went out of her way to get it sorted. You don't often find that level of service around there. Thanks, Erika, for looking after me during my stay.

Erica looked after us so well during three blissful nights and made us feel completely welcome. The room was spotless, the beds incredibly comfortable, and we had everything we needed. I can't thank her enough. We'll definitely stay here again when we're back in Devon. Thank you, Erica xx