Premier Inn Reading Central

The location was good, but this Premier Inn was disappointing compared with the consistent quality I usually get at P.I. The rooms felt dated, the hairdryer was faulty, the water pressure was poor and there was damp around the windows. At check-in I was told breakfast was booked for both days, but I only got it on one. Staff then said I hadn't booked it for the other day and weren't very helpful. We also had drinks in reception during happy hour, which ended at 7 pm. We waited from 6:55 until 7:01 for the barman, who was chatting to a group, and then he told us happy hour was over.

Bad weather kept me from going out, so I ate at the hotel restaurant and was glad I did. The food was top notch, inexpensive, and the service was splendid. Sean was an absolute delight: he found me a great table, was quick with everything and made sure I was looked after. Thanks, Sean! The prices were very reasonable too. I can recommend the hotel and would definitely stay again. 10/10.

The rooms were comfortable, and the location near the Oracle was useful, though the hotel isn't as convenient as some others for buses to the University. Still, the road noise meant I didn't get a good night's sleep. The busy road is right next to the building, and I could hear it on the third floor. I asked for a quiet room at check-in and specifically said I didn't want one on the road side. The person checking me in said she thought all rooms were quiet, but gave me a road-side room anyway. She first sent me to the wrong room, so I came downstairs again to ask for another. I was immediately told they were fully booked. I didn't believe that and suspect they just didn't want to give me a room in another tier. I didn't get the customer service I'd expected from other reviews. I was grateful to the morning staff for letting me cancel my second night without charge.

The staff are what make this place feel like home. The Managaress and her team are friendly and courteous, and go the extra mile to make a stay memorable. We stayed three nights, and this Premier Inn really did feel like home. The public areas and rooms are spotlessly clean. Evening meal choices have been expanded, and breakfast is always fresh, with plenty of options from cereal to a traditional fried breakfast. This must be the best Premier Inn in the UK.