Brooklands

⭐ 1/5 – Very Unwelcoming Experience Unfortunately, I was really disappointed with our stay at Brooklands Hotel. From the moment we arrived, the man at reception made us feel extremely unwelcome. There was no friendly greeting, no warmth and no effort to make us feel comfortable. One of the first things he asked was whether I had made sure I hadn’t accidentally booked Brooklands Lodge instead of Brooklands Hotel. His whole manner felt very offish and immediately made me feel uncomfortable rather than welcomed as a paying guest. I was travelling alone with my young daughter, luggage and bags, and we were given Room 10 right at the top of the hotel. There is no lift and it involved climbing around five or six sets of stairs. Despite seeing me trying to manage a small child and all of our belongings by myself, he didn’t offer to help with a single bag. I don’t expect special treatment, but basic hospitality and a little kindness would have made a huge difference. When you’re running a hotel, how you make guests feel when they arrive is such an important part of the experience, and unfortunately I felt like we were an inconvenience rather than guests. When we eventually got to the room, there was a noticeable musty smell, so we immediately had to open the window. During the night we could also hear repeated banging and noise from the room opposite us and from below, which made the stay even less comfortable. The location is convenient for Bournemouth beach and the town centr

Room was clean but looking a bit tired. Staff were helpful and organised the car parking so that we could leave when needed. Central location and good for visiting the BIC and town and beach.

Check in was awful, the chap was really rude and difficult. Demanded photo identification, which we didn’t have. I pointed out that had he wanted it, then they should have pre-warned us. He said no ID no room, we had pre-paid. In the end he backed down with a huff! I was brave enough to ask about breakfast and he said no food. I questioned why I had an email detailing the times and cost of breakfast and he dismissed it. The parking although free was difficult, as the only was to park is to black someone in or be blocked in yourself. The room was grubby, dirty carpets and dirty curtains, Damp bubbling in the ceiling and a very uncomfortable bed. We are aware it was a cheap night, but it was quite dreadful

The room was smelling of strong urine coming from the toilet. I had to close the chamber and the door but that didn’t deter it.

Excellent hotel! I was really pleased with my choice, especially when I walked past some of the others. I booked late and arrived an hour after that. No problem at all. Check in was smooth and fast. The room was spacious, airy and clean with tea and coffee facilities and toiletries provided. Staff were friendly and well mannered. Nothing was too much trouble. Would definitely stay here again