Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour

The pool being closed was the biggest letdown, since it was the main reason we picked this place. Nobody mentioned it when we booked, and if we'd known, we'd have gone elsewhere. WiFi barely worked, and when I asked where I could sit and work, reception said there wasn't anywhere and told me to come back at 8am because the staff member had only just started her shift. Breakfast was mediocre for a hotel presenting itself as luxury, though the elderly breakfast manager was a real bright spot with lovely service and attitude. The room's bathroom looked old and worn, wasn't as clean as you'd expect at this price, and the shower temperature was very hard to get comfortable. The hotel looks grand at first, but the stay didn't match that impression. We've had better service, communication, and consistency at a standard Holiday Inn, and this experience has put us off the whole chain.

The staff really made my solo spa break feel special. Everyone I met, from check-in to the spa and restaurant, was warm and genuinely friendly. I had no problems with the room, and enjoyed dinner at Leo's bar and grill. Breakfast was lovely too, though some pancakes and meat-free choices like vegan sausages would be nice. It's a handy central spot, with the high street close by and about a 10-minute walk from the coach station. Even so, it felt peaceful. A very nice place to stay if you're stopping in Southampton.

The Christmas tree and fire by the hotel entrance gave the place a lovely festive feel. We used the gym and pool too, though the steps into the pool could use some care. Leo’s is a nice spot for lunch and coffee, and the Marco Pierre White restaurant was good on our first visit. This time the roast turkey was disappointing, a small portion that didn't look like much care had gone into it, especially for the price. The pudding was yummy, and the staff were nice. We had a lovely two-night break, and came back because we enjoyed our previous stay. Our balcony room was fab and massive, although the fridge was oddly sitting on the floor.

Breakfast could do with more choice, including chicken or lamb sausages for people who don't eat pork, some Alpro yoghurt and different cold meats. A fridge in the room would be handy too. Still, we liked the hotel overall, the staff were friendly, and we'd go back. The location was good.