St Giles House

The menu had plenty of good choices, including a two-course deal that was great value. Everything we ordered was full of flavour and beautifully presented, and the food and cocktails were divine. The staff were warm and friendly, service was excellent, and there's free Wi-Fi. You don't have to be staying at the hotel to eat here; walk in or book ahead. We'll definitely return and would recommend it.

The staff were really nice, and the bar was cosy and well presented, but parts of the building look very tatty. The entrance from the car park is dim and dirty; even as a rear entrance, it ought to feel more welcoming. Check the mattresses before settling in. Ours had stains, and there didn't seem to be any mattress protection, which was horrible. It's an old building and, I think, still being worked on, so hopefully it improves. I probably wouldn't stay again.

The room was large and breakfast was good. Our receptionist was excellent and took the time to walk us to our rooms. Some work was going on, though we couldn't tell what it was. It's a lovely place in central Norwich, and we'd happily come back.

The staff were especially helpful and friendly, the bar was well stocked and well run, and I liked the shared living room. Breakfast was very nicely done too. The hotel has grand communal spaces, perhaps because it was once an insurance company headquarters. The rooms are fine and spacious, though the bathrooms feel dated and the towels weren't fluffy enough for me. It's in the pleasant St Giles area, with restaurants nearby, around 15 minutes from the Cathedral, 10 from the Castle and about 15 from the station. Norwich has some rougher, rough-and-ready parts, as many English towns do, but there's plenty to see and do, especially if you're young and enjoy smoking pot. The hotel costs more than some, but it has charm and character, feels welcoming and does a lot well. I'd return. We were in Norwich for the first time, having visited before while staying elsewhere in Norfolk, and chose this hotel based on reviews and Booking.com. There are some charming photos to help you decide whether to visit Norwich or Not(wich).