Crowthorne Vacations from $807

I booked a 4-night stay, assuming that because Swiss Cottage is a Best Western property, it would have standard American amenities like air conditioning. My assumption was wrong. I learned that local owners pay a fee to use the global brand name and booking system, but they retain control over the property itself. Swiss Cottage did not have A/C, and the temperature outside was 30-35°C. The hotel is located in a charming historical building, but these buildings were designed with thick brick walls to trap heat during the winter. This means they become incredibly warm during the summer months with nowhere for the heat to escape. It was impossible to stay in the room, so I booked another hotel and moved. The reception staff were incredibly nice and understanding, and they refunded the cost of my stay. They were struggling with the heat immensely themselves but remained pleasant and kind, which I very much appreciated.

Everything was wonderful

Nice new hotel conveniently located a short walk from Victoria station. Spacious room (upgraded to accessible room with an external window). Appreciated the generous breakfast included. Overall a very positive stay, just a few areas to look into: - Bizarre, complicated WiFi login and password written on hotel information sheet by receptionist that didn’t work (tried a few times). Why not use industry standard, such as surname/room number? - soundproofing was ok, we could hear people talking as they walked along the corridor, and luckily no-one either side of us. However, there was a very audible sound of running water behind the walls all night, see possible explanation from google below*. - Breakfast was busy and, while there was plenty of food to help yourself to, and frequent cleaning away of dishes, some of the serving spoons were very greasy from the many hotel guests handling them. Suggest hand sanitisers on entry and more napkins. - The coffee dispensed in the three machines tasted awful. Could have been the milk, or the blend of coffee, water and milk in a cappuccino. I tried two machines, as one looked like it had a decaf label on it. *possible explanation from google: Building Material: Many modern hotels use lightweight PVC drainpipes rather than old-school heavy cast iron. PVC transmits the sound of rushing water, which can sound loud like a "waterfall".

Room was spacious with decent coffee and tea appliances. Room was tidy and clean. Reception staff could’ve been friendlier. Decent breakfast.

Great location good spec in rooms . Rooms not huge but everything is there and in excellent condition. Staff helpful and friendly .