Holiday Inn Hemel Hempstead M1-J8

Breakfast was amazing, with loads to choose from, and Derek was fantastic. He gave us great suggestions for the little one. Fahd, the head chef, was lovely too, and everyone we met was friendly. Dinner at the hotel was lovely as well. They changed a side on my order without any fuss, and the baby ate free. The pool, sauna and jacuzzi were clean and quiet. We didn't try the gym, but the glass window facing the pool should probably be frosted for swimmers' privacy, so people aren't staring in that direction for ages. The hotel was clean and well looked after. Our room was quiet, clean and a decent size, and the cot we'd asked for was already made up for the baby. We had a wonderful stay for my partner's birthday and would be happy to come again. We probably will.

My wife and I stayed for three weeks and enjoyed the comfortable room, the amenities and, above all, the friendly staff. Breakfast had a delicious range to pick from, and I especially liked the modern adjustable toaster. It got the toast right first time! Derek was the breakfast star. I wrote him this little poem: Derek, cherubic in face and form, makes breakfast a charming, graceful affair, Welcoming each new guest and pointing out where Holiday Inn’s best is, Full English, continental, food galore, his domain is pure delight, As we tuck into our generous full English, we watch Derek glide around the room, Offering information, help and advice, making everyone feel fresh and nice. Okay, I'm no poet! Hurrah for Derek, a very fine guy. So sorry to say goodbye!

The restaurant manager Abi reserved us a table for the evening, and it was great that kids eat free. Abi served us too, and was welcoming and chatty. One other staff member was rude when I checked the bill and politely asked her to remove the service charge so I could tip our waitress myself. She pulled a face and stormed off, but Abi apologised and spoke with her. We'd definitely return for the great location and price. Paulina at reception gave us all the information we needed when she welcomed us. Our room was kept clean, and I liked getting a pool time slot each day. The buffet breakfast was great, and the staff were friendly and talkative. Derek especially made a real effort with the kids, chatting about Harry Potter world and asking them to think of spells. He even had a wand. Thanks!

We picked this hotel for its short distance from the Harry Potter Studios, and it worked really well for our family. The kids also loved having a pool. It's a lovely modern, clean place with decent food and very friendly staff. Derek was a real credit to the hotel. His humour and kindness brightened every morning, and he went out of his way to make guests happy. He told the kids Harry Potter jokes and was great with them. My son has Ceoliac disease, so we really appreciated the fresh gluten-free pancakes and sausages they made for his breakfast. Thanks for a lovely stay!