My colleague and I needed some last minute rooms as we unexpectedly needed to stay near Darlington due to the storm.
A number of hotels were unavailable due to power cuts so we ended up here. First thing to say is that the staff really make this hotel. When our company made the booking online they immediately called to advise that there was a function at the hotel, with music until 11.30pm. This was very considerate of them. Jumping ahead slightly, sure enough the music was turned off when they said and there was no further disturbance.
Back to the room. Yes, I had read reviews about it being tired and you can't help but agree. Old carpets, wallpaper, bathroom fittings, etc. It was clean though, with a hospitality tray and a TV with plenty of channels. The heating, however, was sporadic. There was just the one radiator, which I turned up full with little effect. Several hours later, it really kicked into life and needed turning down again.
The next morning we went for breakfast and were pleased to be offered a hot breakfast at 7am, even though the room information stated it was continental until 8am. Plenty of tea and coffee refills were offered by the staff. It had that slightly older charm of real service.
If this place just had a little bit of money put into it it could be really great. less