Travelodge Maidenhead Central

Maidenhead Station and nearby parking were convenient, and the room I was moved to was quiet, though some rooms are noisy. I had booked Standard Plus, expecting a top-floor room, king-size bed, coffee machine and premium Wi-Fi. Instead, I was first given a noisy standard room on the second floor. After I queried it, they moved me to a family room upstairs, but it still wasn't what Standard Plus was supposed to include. It seemed there were no Plus rooms available, but nobody explained that clearly or offered to refund the price difference. I only got the premium Wi-Fi code after asking.

The location was a real help, just a stone's throw from the station and shops. I could hear trains and traffic, but it never bothered me, even though I'm usually a light sleeper. The room was warm, comfortable and well equipped, with lovely mood lighting. Everything was immaculate, in good condition and worked properly, and I felt safe there. Staff were efficient, friendly and caring, and really went out of their way. Dinner was delicious with plenty of variety, and they brought it to the table, suggested dishes and checked if I needed anything. One lady even made me a lovely side salad. Breakfast was self service with loads to choose from. I stayed five days at Travelodge Maidenhead Central at the end of November. The security was first class. The hotel doesn't have an alcohol licence before 11 pm at the moment, but there's a pub right next door and a small Sainsbury's nearby, and guests could drink in their rooms. This should be a five star hotel. It's one of the best places I've stayed.

We got in at 11 pm and were told the only room available was a disabled twin, even though we'd booked a standard double. Check in took quite a while too. The room felt very basic and unwelcoming, and the bathroom was grotty in places and didn't seem clean. Doors slammed all night inside the hotel. Outside, people were shouting and cars passing, so we couldn't leave the window open. We had a poor night's sleep and checked out at 6 am. The station and car park around the corner were handy, but I wouldn't recommend staying here.

The receptionist was friendly and polite, but didn't give us the free Wi-Fi code or explain where breakfast was. There isn't parking on site, and the car park across the road cost us £12. The carpet had stains that looked suspiciously like blood, there were stains on the sheets and mattress, and the toilet wasn't clean. There were handprints all over the back of the door. The train noise was loud even with the window shut, though that can't really be helped. They should let guests choose their room when others are vacant. The place was really basic, nothing like the photos, and needs a proper clean and refresh.