Travelodge Sheffield Central

Our room, 609, was huge and spotless, and it overlooked the park. I can be fussy about anything getting on my feet, so forgetting my fluffy socks and finding not a trace of anything after walking to the bathroom was a big deal for me. The coffee machine, kettle and supplies were nicely varied, and we even appreciated the chocolate bars, though we don't usually drink hot drinks. Getting in and out was easy, and check-in was quick. The staff were friendly throughout, including when we asked about food alternatives on our last evening. The bar drinks were also really well priced. We asked at 10:15am on our departure day about late checkout, with the usual checkout at noon, and were glad it was available. The one little snag was the bath plug, which was too small for the hole, so I couldn't have a bath. Sorry for leaving the water running so long before I noticed! We stripped the bed and left everything as tidy as we could. It was a lovely stay for my boyfriend's birthday, and we'd definitely come back.

The staff were really friendly and helpful, and the room was clean and reasonably comfortable. They topped up the coffee and other bits when I asked, or I could get them from reception. There are extra charges for WiFi and breakfast, though I'd avoid breakfast as it wasn't very good. The hotel did the job for me, especially with the supertram stop nearby for getting to the European figure skating championships. I've stayed at better hotels, but this one worked for my trip.

Two hours after arriving, at 12:12am, two very unprofessional women accused me of smoking in my room and gave me five minutes to leave. I don't smoke. After questioning them, I felt I was dealing with people who weren't educated about the situation, so I booked into the ibis next door, which seemed much cleaner as soon as you walked in. I doubt I'll get a refund. The woman at the front desk had been friendly when I checked in, but the WiFi I'd paid for didn't work in either of the two rooms.

The location was great, about five minutes on foot from the tram stop and town centre, and fifteen minutes from the train station. Staff were consistently friendly and helpful. The room was basic but clean, with enough cupboard space, and reception could provide a hairdryer, iron and other things. There was no regular housekeeping, though you could hang a sign on the door for a top-up of tea, coffee, milk or toilet rolls. They also emptied our overflowing bin once. WiFi cost a lot, especially given how often it dropped out. We tried breakfast once and wouldn't recommend it. Most of it was tasteless, some advertised items like porridge, mushrooms and fruit salad weren't there, and the coffee was only lukewarm. Also, the shower head is fixed, so bring a shower cap if you don't want to wash your hair every time.