Tudor Oaks Lodge Stevenage North

I have driven past this hotel tens of thousands of times of the past few decades. Booked as the hotel in Stevenage I wanted was full. Not the best first impression in the car park as an old mattress and other rubbish present. No one at reception but a number to call and dealt with very promptly. Room surrounds an unswept and tatty courtyard with fake grass in need of a hose, brush and soap. Room very basic (this was badged as deluxe). Tatty rather than dirty, bathroom clean but all (of the few) furnishings very tired. No light switch anywhere near the bed. Bathroom fine but no light over the sink which is in an alcove, so had to shave in the dark. Would I come again - er, no.

Arrived early evening to a full wedding reception. Could not find anyone as there is no manned reception. Evenly found someone who said that they had blocked the bookings as they had a wedding reception but then found my booking for a deluxe double room. We were asked to leave and come back after they had cleaned a room, this was at 6.30 in the evening after driving for an hour. Obviously we declined this. The manner of staff was appalling and can't see how they are still open as a business.

It is basic, which is what you would expect for the price. Unfortunately we did have to move room as the bed had not been changed however the room that we moved into was very clean. (This may have been due to early check-in however we did notify them ahead of time). It is directly off the motorway so there are no pubs/restaurants nearby (apart from one across the motorway, if you want to risk it on foot). Two villages, 10 and 20 min drive away which have lots of choice but not ideal if driving and wanting a drink. The man who checked us in was lovely and very polite. Would be higher rating if not having to change rooms. It is a drafty room, but the electrical heaters soon warm you up. Only thing i would say is treat it like you’re in a caravan/lodge as food/drinks etc, not close by and no breakfast. Defo only a one or two night stay whilst heading up/down country, not ideal for a getaway.