Holiday Inn Express Birmingham Redditch

I'd skip the hotel's evening meal. We paid £18 for what was clearly a microwave meal in a bag, fries and supermarket coleslaw (pictured). With nearly every other table empty on a Friday night (pictured), maybe that should have told me something. You're likely to get better food and value by going out to eat. The hotel itself was easy to find, only a few minutes' walk from the station, and check-in was simple. Breakfast was outstanding and the staff were very helpful. It ticked all the other boxes.

The room was basic, with a few marks on the walls and carpet, but the bed was clean and comfortable and the bathroom and shower were clean too. The concierge was friendly and really helpful, and check-in was quick and easy. It was just right for what we needed.

The breakfast was delicious, and the sheets and bathroom were clean. The room itself felt a bit tired, with some old stains on the carpet and sofa. It was too warm, and the air conditioning seemed locked, so we had to open a window even though it overlooked the road. The pillows were very flat. We don't usually need two each, but did here. For a budget stay, it did the job.

The room and bathroom were clean, the bed was comfortable, and there was nothing to complain about with the room. Breakfast in the morning was good and free, with everything you might want. I was there for a fishing trip and used points I'd collected through the IHG loyalty program. This hotel has stopped giving points for free night stays, or perhaps they forgot, and the free drinks voucher has stopped too. I assume it's a way to save money. It's a handy place, and I'll probably use it again.