The Maiden Oval

If all you need is an inexpensive place to sleep, this might do. Beyond shelter, there wasn't much going for it. The elevator was out of order, there was no air conditioning, and our broken window wouldn't open all the way. The bathroom was no bigger than a closet. Tea and coffee weren't replenished, and the room went uncleaned for three days. We had to ask for fresh towels and hand over the dirty ones before they gave us replacements. For anyone wanting cleanliness, working facilities and helpful staff, I wouldn't recommend it.

We paid £130 and came away feeling the place was unsafe, dirty and badly managed. The second room had mould in the filthy bathroom, a used spot patch stuck to the wall, a broken shower screen, and a rain shower that didn't work. The other shower head sprayed straight into your face and couldn't be adjusted. In the first room, a radiator ran uncontrollably and there was a foul sulfur smell, probably from the drains, since the sink wasn't draining properly. Our first room door was open when we arrived. Its large window wouldn't lock; staff brushed off our security concern by saying cameras and residents below made it “fine.” Only after we insisted did they offer another room, and my partner had to move all our bags alone. At checkout, the staff member stayed on his phone and ignored us. After 30-40 seconds, we left the key and walked out. Booking.com are handling our complaint well, but we strongly advise avoiding this hotel.

Mr. Manpreet Singh at reception made our pleasant stay even better. He greeted us warmly and was both highly professional and genuinely welcoming.

For a budget hotel, the quality was good. Our refurbished room was clean and nice, though compact, which seemed fair for the price and location. The en-suite was lovely. Getting to reception involves some unusual steps, but the staff were welcoming and very helpful.