following a reading of the previous review on this 'hotel' we booked 3 nights B & B. It really was like being back at college with all the facilities of a college. I believe it is run by BT as a staff training centre with accommodation for several hundred staff.
And it seems that members of the public like us can also use the facilities as there must be serious down times in the courses pregrammes.
While there are a large conglomeration of seemingly redundant accomodation and training blocks on this large site which has been in use for many years the 'hotel' or more appropriatly 'hostel' facilities are modern, clean and well equipped in residential and central blocks all within easy walking distance of each other under covered pathways.
Car parking is abundant and everything is well lit at night.
We had a moderate sized room, with full ensuite facilites, which was very clean, furnished with a small (standard) double bed, table, 2 chairs, desk and TV. Free internet access and tea/coffee supplied.
After several weeks of school holidays I am pleased to report WE SAW NOT A SINGLE CHILD ON SITE! Hooray. It is in a quiet location and is relatively easy to find near the A34 trunk road. And at a price below most that of other local accommodations. If you don't mind the 'college' type atmosphere it is recommended. If you prefer the more usual hotel type surroundings and trappings you may find it a bit lacking although all facilites are there it does not have the feel of a hotel.
On the downside the evening meals are only available from 18:00 until 20:00hrs as the catering is geared to the staff training centre. Similarly breakfast is not aavailable after 09:00hrs so a long lie in after a good night out is not recommended. Food is good institutional fare, not what I would call modern 'fussy' or 'fancy' food. All in all very satisfied with our stay. It's certainly different!