The Penny Farthing

The hotel offers a convenient and accessible base, with its central location just off the high street and the significant advantage of private on-site parking serving as a signature feature. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff as a major positive, alongside the generally comfortable beds and the hotel's overall cleanliness. While many rooms are described as being tired or dated in decor, the hotel remains a popular choice. It is particularly well-suited for sightseers eager to explore the town's attractions, walkers keen to enjoy the nearby canal path, and individuals visiting friends and family in the area. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to inquire about room location to potentially mitigate noise from walkways or courtyards, and be prepared for some rooms having limited natural light.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical in-room amenities provided, which typically include tea and coffee making facilities complete with biscuits, and the convenience of an iron and ironing board for personal use. While the hotel does not feature extensive recreational facilities such as a swimming pool or a dedicated fitness center, it does offer free Wi-Fi to ensure guests can stay connected, though some reviews indicate occasional inconsistencies with the signal strength. A recurring operational concern noted by several guests is the functionality of the air conditioning units, which are often described as noisy or non-operational, sometimes necessitating the use of older electrical heaters for warmth. Furthermore, the room key cards can be temperamental, frequently requiring reprogramming at reception, which can be an inconvenience during a stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, with many guests finding the rooms generally clean and the beds comfortable, often highlighting the fluffy towels and plenty of hot water in the showers. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that rooms are often described as tired, dated, and in need of TLC, with issues such as scuffs on walls, stained carpets, missing tiles in bathrooms, and even mould or mildew in showers. Lighting is frequently mentioned as being dim or dark, with some rooms lacking natural light. Noise can also be an issue, with guests reporting sounds from other rooms, walkways, courtyards, and even trains, impacting sleep quality. Some bathrooms also present maintenance concerns, including loose toilet seats, leaking showers, and inconsistent shower temperatures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel operates on a room-only basis, meaning there are no on-site breakfast facilities or a dedicated restaurant within the property itself. However, guests have the option to enjoy breakfast at a nearby sister hotel, where they receive a discount on their meal. Reviews for the breakfast at the sister hotel are generally positive, with guests describing it as good and cooked to order, offering a convenient dining solution. While this arrangement provides a viable option for morning meals, some guests note that the service at the sister hotel can occasionally be slow. There is also no bar area directly at the hotel, encouraging guests to explore the numerous dining and drinking establishments in the immediate vicinity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, positioned just off the high street, making it highly convenient for exploring the town. Guests appreciate its proximity to a wide array of shops, restaurants, and pubs, all within easy walking distance. The hotel is also well-situated for access to the Grand Canal, offering pleasant walking opportunities, and is a short walk from the railway station. A significant advantage highlighted by many guests is the availability of private on-site parking, which is considered a major bonus in such a central area. While parking is convenient, some guests note that there may be an additional charge for its use, which is not always clear upfront.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receive high praise from guests, frequently described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Many reviews highlight the positive interactions with the reception team, who are noted for their pleasant demeanor and efficiency during the check-in process. Guests particularly appreciate the staff's proactive willingness to assist with various requests, provide valuable local information, and promptly address any issues that may arise during their stay. This commitment to providing excellent service significantly contributes to a positive overall experience, making the staff's dedication and approachability a standout aspect of the hotel. Their efforts often help to mitigate other minor inconveniences guests might encounter.