Carlton Suites

The hotel offers a surprising stay, as its signature feature is the stark contrast between its often-described uninviting and run-down exterior and its surprisingly renovated, clean, and comfortable interiors. This makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a convenient overnight stopover on longer journeys. Guests consistently highlight the modern and well-appointed rooms, comfortable beds, and excellent showers, which often exceed expectations given the initial external impression. The central location also makes it a good fit for sightseers and families looking to explore the town on foot, with spacious rooms and apartments available. Many find it a reliable "go-to" option for its consistent value. To enhance your stay, it's recommended to manage expectations regarding the hotel's outward appearance and to confirm check-in procedures, especially for late arrivals, as reception hours can be limited, which can sometimes lead to communication challenges.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently appreciate the practical in-room amenities that enhance their stay, particularly for short visits or self-catering needs. Many rooms are equipped with a microwave, toaster, and kettle, along with basic crockery and cutlery, allowing guests to prepare simple meals. The presence of a fridge is also a welcome convenience. Some larger accommodations, such as family suites or apartments, may feature a more extensive kitchenette or even a full-size fridge. Guests also note the availability of ample power points in the rooms. While a spa is advertised in some deluxe apartments, several guests reported it was not functional during their stay. The hotel also provides an outdoor BBQ area for guest use and a gym, though some found the gym to be messy or not fully operational. Wi-Fi connectivity is available, but some guests experienced inconsistent or non-existent service in their rooms.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests praise the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms, often expressing pleasant surprise given the hotel's exterior. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some found pillows to be too thin or mattresses to have dents. Many rooms are noted for being spacious, providing ample living area, and feature renovated bathrooms with good showers, including rain heads. However, some guests reported significant issues with bathroom cleanliness, citing instances of mould, dirt, or unemptied bins. A recurring minor complaint is the lack of sufficient towel rails in bathrooms. While generally quiet, some guests experienced noise levels from adjacent rooms or hallways, and occasionally from plumbing. Some rooms also lack natural light, requiring blackout blinds to be drawn constantly, or have issues with light entering at night.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous key attractions and conveniences. It is situated very close to the train station and the main street, offering quick access to supermarkets, various shops, cafes, and restaurants. Guests appreciate being able to park their car and explore the town entirely on foot. Its proximity to the highway also makes it an ideal and easy-to-find stopover point for travelers. Parking is widely available on-site, often described as ample and off-street, with some areas offering direct access to rooms, which is convenient for luggage. While generally secure, some guests noted that the parking area is open and not fully enclosed.

Staff & Service
Guest feedback on staff and service is mixed but generally leans positive, with many praising the friendly staff and their helpful and accommodating nature. Specific mentions include quick check-in processes, responsiveness to after-hours calls, and willingness to assist with requests like room upgrades or locating lost items. However, a notable number of reviews highlight significant communication challenges, particularly regarding unmanned reception areas and difficulty reaching staff outside specific hours. Some guests reported issues with room keys, lack of room makeup during longer stays, or insufficient replenishment of consumables like milk and tea. While individual staff members often receive high praise for their demeanor, the overall operational responsiveness and availability can be inconsistent.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard categories, guests frequently comment on the hotel's ongoing renovation efforts, noting that while the interior rooms are largely updated, the exterior and common areas still show signs of neglect, including poor signage and general disrepair. This often leads to an initial negative impression that is usually dispelled upon entering the rooms. Another recurring theme is noise transmission within the building; guests have reported hearing hallway noise from tiled corridors and slamming doors, as well as plumbing noise from adjacent rooms. Some guests also noted issues with housekeeping frequency, requiring them to request daily consumables or room makeup. The hotel's operational model often involves an unmanned reception outside specific hours, which can lead to difficulties with check-in, key access, and general communication for guests.