We were very disappointed overall, and if it weren't for lack of time, we probably would have gone elsewhere. Positive notes: Bedding and bathroom were clean. Staff was cordial and helpful in arranging for a cab at a reasonable rate to the airport. Good location with easy access to the underground. Problem areas: These are many, but we have kept our comments objective so future readers may make their own decision regarding the Blue Bells Hotel. Our bathroom window was clear glass, and was not covered, exposing the entire bathroom to the outside where workers were working on scaffolding right outside the window. After two unsuccessful attempts to get the innkeeper to cover the window, we covered it ourselves by taping travel brochures to the window panes to prevent others from seeing inside. The carpeting and upholstered furniture was dirty looking and much worn, and the painted fiberboard nightstands were extremely worn. Only 3 of the 5 lights in the bathroom worked and the fluorescent lights in the bedroom produced a very dim and dreary atmosphere. The 2-foot deep “balcony” had a wire mesh at the base that had jagged metal edges sticking out that would easily cut a child or adult if not paying close attention. The drapes were drab and the sheers were dirty. The only way to get any air circulation was by leaving the bathroom window & large, floor-to-ceiling, bedroom window open which made us feel unsafe since both were easily accessible from the outside. We anticipated a traditional English breakfast, but instead, the breakfast was cold cereal, toast, coffee and OJ. Notes: To get clean towels, you must leave your old ones on the floor or you won’t get new ones. Wash cloths, facial tissues and shampoo are not provided. Bed was made daily but not sure about policy on changing sheets. Unfortunately, our only disappointing part of the trip was the Blue Bells Hotel. We would not recommend it to any of our friends, nor would we stay there again.
[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
This review does not accurately reflect the Blue Bells hotel and I should like to take this opportunity to set the record straight by responding to the various points made.The property was refurbished within the last 24 months and many of the ensuite bathrooms are now marble tiled.We take great pride that the hotel is clean and tidy throughout and inspections are made regularly to maintain high standards.Bed linen is changed every 3 days and they are changed every day for new guests arriving. Curtains are washed every 4/5 weeks as are the carpets which are kept to a good order.The reviewer suggests that the lighting was poor, but if any of the bulbs do not work then the management is alerted to this by the cleaners and will be fixed.There are extractor fans in the ensuite bathrooms and also cloths, towels and soaps provided. As regards the breakfast, a fully cooked English breakfast is not provided and never advertised. Again the reviewer is mistaken as the hotel provides a continental breakfast comprising tea/coffee, toast cereal etc. Blue Bells Hotel is a very popular bed and breakfast hotel accommodating guests from all over the world. It is run at a high occupancy throughout the year, indeed for many months it is fully booked and we are pleased to say that the hotel has returning guests every year. We are sorry to have received this poor review but I guess you cannot please all the people all the time. It's just a pity that they did not take their concerns to the hotel staff at the time of their stay where their grievances would have been dealt with in a timely manner. I trust that this response has reassured our readers and look forward to welcoming them to our small but friendly hotel in the centre of London where we always try to keep our rates affordable.
- Mr Wehl (Manager)
