The Samuel Ryder Hotel St. Albans, Tapestry Collection By Hilton

“EXCELLENT LOCATION”

Our main aim for choosing to stay in this hotel was because we wanted somewhere with easy access to the railway station as we would be heading into London during our stay. It's rare these days I would choose a town centre location as parking can be an issue (and expensive) but this hotel did have … more

Our main aim for choosing to stay in this hotel was because we wanted somewhere with easy access to the railway station as we would be heading into London during our stay. It's rare these days I would choose a town centre location as parking can be an issue (and expensive) but this hotel did have its own free parking. We were given instructions on how to access the hotel by car but this was nothing less than confusing as the approach was down the side of the hotel and we had probably driven past it at least three times before realising we had missed the back entrance. It really needs some decent signage. After checking in, we were allocated a space on car park 3 and it was a short, maybe five minutes, walk back to the hotel. Although I did go back to check on the car each evening as it was not a secure car park, I was told there had never been any incidents. Our twin room was on the ground floor. It had two small double beds, probably the most comfortable I have ever had when staying away from home. There were plenty of power points in the room, reasonable wifi, a hospitality tray with biscuits, hair dryer and also toiletries in the bathroom. The staff were exceptionally efficient and friendly - nothing ever seemed to be too much trouble for them. Our accommodation was on a room only basis so we paid extra one morning to have breakfast in the hotel but ate breakfast out on the other two mornings. There were a number of places for breakfast. Our breakfast waiter that first morning was Tom, who looked after us very well. One of the major plus points of this hotel was its location, close to the cathedral, restaurants and shops.

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“Stop over in St Albans”

After initially having difficulty in finding the drop off car park (needs better signage) we checked into the hotel and were given a warm greeting by the reception staff. Our room was on the ground floor. It was spacious with two double beds which were amazingly comfortable. There was an alleyway … more

After initially having difficulty in finding the drop off car park (needs better signage) we checked into the hotel and were given a warm greeting by the reception staff. Our room was on the ground floor. It was spacious with two double beds which were amazingly comfortable. There was an alleyway outside which a lot of people were using so I am glad I was not a lone female staying in this room. There were two hanging spaces but more hangers are needed. 4 hangers in total are not enough for a few days stay. Also there was only 1 chair which meant that I had to sit on the bed at all times. We had a large bathroom with good quality toiletries and plenty of hot water. We were surprised that a 4 star hotel did not provide bottles of water. I did ask for ice each night so that I had cold water to drink and we were able to get a jug of fresh milk each day rather than have to use the milk jiggers provided. We only had breakfast one day as it was not included in the price. There was a very good choice and we were well looked after by Tom. This was an enjoyable stay. The hotel needs some minor tweaks which is why I have not given 5 stars.

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“Disappointing Experience Despite a Nice Design”

I recently stayed at this hotel in St Albans and had high expectations given the beautiful design, especially in the common areas, and the very good breakfast offerings. However, my experience quickly turned sour. While the rooms appear new at first glance, they are actually quite shabby, with old… more

I recently stayed at this hotel in St Albans and had high expectations given the beautiful design, especially in the common areas, and the very good breakfast offerings. However, my experience quickly turned sour. While the rooms appear new at first glance, they are actually quite shabby, with old stains on the furniture and in the bathroom. This was disappointing, but what really soured my stay was the attitude of the staff. I was assigned a room on the ground floor facing a wall—literally 5 cm away from the window. When I brought up my concerns, the staff was not only unhelpful but openly arrogant. They blamed me for checking in late and didn’t even attempt to hide their annoyance, despite the fact that I’m a Hilton Honors Gold member, which should entitle me to an upgrade or at least a better room within the category. With staff treating guests this poorly, I won’t be returning to this hotel. It’s a shame because the design and breakfast had potential, but the service needs a serious overhaul.

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