Sporting Lodge Inn Middlesbrough

When I arrived, the car park is bashed up and rough, and the building looked like it hasn't had a makeover since the 1970s. Still, I wasn't expecting the absolute failure that was realising on the morning I left that the door of my room didn't lock. So it was a key card door, there is no way to manually lock it from the outside - so it needs to lock when closed. But it didn't. So when I went out for dinner, anyone could have just opened the door and stolen my stuff. When I was sleeping, anyone could have just come in. The taps in the bathroom didn't really work, the shower is decades old.

I stayed at this Middlesbrough hotel on 12th March as part of a business trip, and I must say I was profoundly disappointed, particularly given the "executive" upgrade I had purchased. Room 115 was far from the standard I expect from a 4-star establishment, let alone an upgraded room. The decor was dated and frankly, grubby. The lack of basic toiletries was a significant oversight, and the overpowering smell of TCP or disinfectant was extremely unpleasant and lingered throughout my stay. I'm genuinely perplexed as to how this room could be classified as "executive" and would appreciate a response from the hotel explaining this....... While the accommodation was a major letdown, I must commend the hotel on two aspects. The gym access was a welcome addition and a great way to unwind after a long day. More surprisingly, the evening food was exceptionally good. Given the poor state of the room, I had low expectations, but the quality and taste were genuinely impressive. Unfortunately, the poor room experience has overshadowed the positives. It's a real shame, as the food and gym were excellent, but I simply cannot justify staying here again. For future business trips to Middlesbrough, I'll be returning to the reliable comfort of a Premier Inn.

On arrival the reception had a fur coat no knickers appeal. On our approach to our room the vibe given was that the hallways had seen many dirty weekend occupants. Our first room in ground floor level was missing the secondary glazing, making it cold, noisy and insecure. We were given by a second room which yet again had window issues and after stuffing a towel in the window seals the room was quieter and less chilly. Overall the general feel of the room was depressing and we felt sleeping in our clothing would be the way forward as just waking barefoot around the room felt us feeling uncomfortable. Room suited to constructing workers just after a nights kip .