VILLAGE HOTEL READING

The pool is a lovely warm temperature and a good size, and the sauna and steam room are spacious, well kept and just the right temperature. Everything was clean, including the very nice, well equipped changing rooms, and staff were regularly checking and cleaning the facilities. We're really glad we joined the club. Laura and Maddie were welcoming and helpful, and put us at ease straight away.

I loved spending Friday evening in the gym and pool. They looked clean, modern and better than the one near me, and I really enjoyed using them. The pass was included with my hotel booking, which I appreciated since that sort of thing usually costs extra. They even provided a wristband and a towel for the pool. The hotel was easy to find and close to Reading main train station. Reception had a brand new feel, and my room was clean, modern, comfortable, a good temperature, and had everything I needed. The shower and bathroom were great. Staff were friendly and helpful at both check-in and check-out. I'd happily stay again, as long as my company is paying!

The gym was a good experience. My friend brought us to The Village as guests, and the reception staff were welcoming. The facilities were clean, well maintained and enjoyable to use, so I'd definitely go back for the gym. At the restaurant, the menu had plenty of variety, but there weren't any halal dishes, so one of us chose a vegetarian meal. Service took a while to start, and we ended up ordering drinks and all our food together. There was also an awkward mix-up when we were asked to pay upfront to open a tab for “guarantee” purposes. A more senior staff member explained it and eventually sorted things out. The meal was uneven. Starters were okay, but the nachos had far too much cheese and the calamari seemed overpriced for its portion. The mains were average and took nearly an hour to arrive, even though it wasn't very busy. Desserts didn't taste freshly made and were disappointing. Even after using a £50 voucher, we paid over £70 extra, and the food didn't feel worth the money. Service could be more attentive, and the staff could use more training. I know the restaurant has only recently opened and has potential, so I hope it improves. I'd be happy to return to the gym, and might try the restaurant again after things get better.

The food was good too: I had a burger for dinner and a full English from the breakfast buffet, and both were great quality. The facilities were incredible for the price. I used the gym, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, pool and showers, and everything was exceptionally clean. The gym was so well equipped that I'd go there just for it. I hadn't really known of Village before, but if there's one where I'm travelling in future, I'll choose it. It's great to stay somewhere that lets me keep up my workout schedule.