Sofitel London Gatwick

My daughter and I flew in from the USA to LGW at 7am and weren't leaving until 6pm, so we booked a day room to catch up on sleep after a night flight. They let us check in before 9am, which we appreciated since day rooms usually run from 9am to 6pm. Although I'd booked a family room, I asked for a twin at check-in and thankfully got two proper beds, not one bed with a camp-bed type setup. The room and shower room were nice, but the air conditioning was very noisy and there was no milk in the tea and coffee caddy. We were so tired that we didn't report either issue at the time. We'd stay again because the direct link to LGW North Terminal lets you maximise sleep and get to check-in easily.

I keep choosing this hotel before my flights because the place is spotless, the service stays brilliant, and the team makes everything feel effortless. The only little downside for me is how limited the in-room dining menu is. It would be great if guests could order dishes from the main restaurant menu to their rooms. Another lovely stay, and I'll definitely be back.

The food in the Chinese restaurant was excellent, and the Filipino staff were a joy. The hotel benefits from its direct bridge to the terminal and good design. Check-in was warm and efficient, booking a restaurant table was easy, and departure always goes smoothly. The helpful, switched-on staff do their jobs with a smile; no zombie staff avoiding guests. For an airport hotel, one of Britain's least bad, it has some character and self-respect. It isn't just about expensive hot bedding. I could even stay here for more than one night!

One lovely surprise was waiting in the room after dinner: the hotel team had arranged a birthday platter for my wife with chocolate cake slices, fresh fruit, and a piped chocolate Happy Birthday message. Both my wife and I have disabilities, and Mustafa greeted us on arrival and helped with our luggage to reception. Since we were flying the next morning, we could check our luggage in, and he helped us to the terminal to do that too. He was calm, pleasant, and helpful throughout, and arranged our assistance for 6am the next morning. Our room was clean, well positioned, and had everything we needed. The arranged assistance arrived on time, making departure smooth. From arrival to departure, the whole experience and service were excellent.