The Lovat Hotel

The hotel offers a distinctive retro charm, providing a budget-friendly stay that appeals to a diverse range of guests. Its signature feature is its commitment to offering good value, often described as "cheap and cheerful," making it a suitable choice for budget travelers, sightseers exploring the area, socializers drawn to its late-night bar, and contractors seeking practical accommodation. Most guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, who are often highlighted as the hotel's strongest asset. However, feedback on room condition and cleanliness is mixed, with some noting dated decor and maintenance needs, while others find their rooms perfectly adequate. Shower functionality, particularly regarding water temperature and pressure, is a recurring concern for many. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to inquire about your room's location upon arrival if you are sensitive to noise, and to manage expectations regarding modern aesthetics, embracing the hotel's unique character.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed for convenience, though some areas are noted as being dated. The bar is a significant feature, frequently praised for its generous opening hours, often extending until the early morning, and for being well-stocked, offering a lively atmosphere with a pool table. Parking is widely available and appreciated by guests, described as ample and easy to access, with a well-lit car park. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally reported as very good throughout the property. However, the TV functionality in rooms receives mixed reviews, with some guests experiencing issues with reception or channel availability. While heating is available, some rooms have been described as cold, while others are noted as being very warm. Sofa beds are mentioned as being small and somewhat uncomfortable. Basic in-room amenities like ironing boards and tea and coffee facilities are generally provided. Some guests note that certain rooms are located in an annex or separate part of the hotel, which can feel somewhat isolated.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably varied. While some guests report their rooms as spotless and very clean, others express concerns about grubby carpets, dust, and even stains on bedding or in bathrooms, indicating an inconsistent standard. The room condition and dated decor are frequently mentioned, with many describing the hotel as tired or in need of redecorating. Despite this, some appreciate the "retro" aesthetic. Bed comfort also receives mixed reviews; many find the beds comfortable, while others complain about uncomfortable mattresses or rock-hard pillows. A significant and recurring issue is the shower pressure and hot water consistency in the bathroom, with numerous reports of showers providing only scalding hot or freezing cold water, or having very low pressure. Noise levels from other guests or the late-night bar are a concern for some. In-room amenities like tea and coffee facilities are generally available. Some rooms have been noted to have a persistent smell of smoke or damp, and issues with windows not closing properly.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience, particularly breakfast, garners mixed but generally positive feedback. Most guests describe the breakfast as good, lovely, or even amazing, often highlighting the cooked breakfast options as hot and tasty, with plenty of choice. However, some find the breakfast variety to be basic, lacking fresh fruit, yogurt, or a wider selection of cereals, and note that items like eggs can be cold or rubbery. The coffee quality is also a point of contention, with some finding it poor. For evening meals, the restaurant primarily offers a limited menu focused on American diner-style options like burgers and pizzas. While some guests praise the food quality of these dishes, others find the menu restrictive, overpriced, or the food to be of low quality. The bar also serves food, with specific items like falafel and Korean wings receiving positive mentions. The overall atmosphere of the restaurant area is sometimes described as run down or in need of revamping.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered a significant advantage for guests. It is described as a central location that is well-situated and convenient for accessing the town center. Many guests appreciate that it is within walking distance of various attractions and amenities, typically a 10 to 15-minute stroll, making it ideal for exploring the area on foot. While some note it is "a bit of a walk" or "quite far out" if not driving, the availability of public transport, including regular buses, provides easy access to the city center and beyond. The hotel also offers ample parking, which is a major convenience for those traveling by car, with guests noting it is easy to find and well-lit. Situated in a generally quiet residential area, the hotel provides a peaceful environment despite its proximity to a busy road, which some guests mention but do not find disruptive.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, standing out as a major highlight of the guest experience. Guests frequently describe the team as exceptionally friendly staff, helpful staff, and attentive service, often going above and beyond to assist with requests and ensure a comfortable stay. The check-in process is generally reported as quick and efficient, though a few guests experienced delays or issues upon arrival. Staff are praised for their welcoming demeanor and willingness to accommodate needs, from providing extra towels to addressing room concerns promptly. The housekeeping team is also noted for their efforts in maintaining cleanliness. Even when guests encounter issues with room amenities or facilities, the staff's positive attitude and proactive approach to problem-solving are frequently commended, contributing significantly to overall guest satisfaction despite other potential shortcomings of the property.

Additional Information
The hotel is often highlighted for its value for money, with many guests considering it a budget-friendly option that provides adequate accommodation for the price. It is frequently noted that the hotel is undergoing ongoing updates and refurbishment, with some areas already improved while others still appear tired or dated, indicating a work in progress. Despite these efforts, some guests report accessibility challenges, such as the absence of lifts and steep ramps, which may pose difficulties for those with mobility issues. A few guests have also reported booking discrepancies, including instances of double-booked rooms or cancellations, leading to inconvenience. The hotel embraces a distinct retro theme or "old school" vibe, which some guests find charming and unique, offering a different experience compared to more modern, chain hotels. This blend of evolving facilities and a unique aesthetic contributes to a varied guest perception.