Hotels Near Salhouse Broad in Broadland

I stayed here from Friday 30.09. to Monday 3 October 2022. It was my first time at Oaklands. It appeared to be primarily a hotel for drivers: it is some way out of the centre of Norwich; the narrow driveway leading to it has no provision for pedestrians; and it has a large car park. The hotel had told me of the fairly frequent bus service from the railway station, which did not take long. Arrival and registration was smooth and fast. My room (no. 20 - photos) was easy to reach and generally quiet, apart from faint noises from the corridor and adjacent rooms. When I arrived, I was correctly told that my room was far enough away from the birthday party in progress for me not to be disturbed; this was not so true of the event on Saturday evening: the music’s rhythmic thumping continued and appeared to grow slightly louder until 24:00. The staff were consistently courteous and helpful. My room was well equipped and comfortable, including a comfortable bed and quickly accessed WiFi, a hair dryer and a spacious bathroom. The wall television worked well. The tasteful decorations incorporated two still life paintings. The refreshment tray included delicious biscuits and drinks, including (most unusual) hot chocolate. Room service was efficient and discreet. There were however a few irritations: A) the bedside light and the ceiling light were linked, so that it was apparently impossible to turn off the bedside light without going to one of the two (why?) switches on the wall by the door; B) the room was warm when I arrived, as was the towel rack in the bathroom; the next day, the heat had vanished, and I was unable to turn it on again; outside night-time temperatures went below 10°C; C) there was no lamp on the desk; D) there were far too many cushions and pillows on the bed; E) there was no clock in the room. The package I had booked was for bed and breakfast. The breakfast room was large, including a terrace; the menu (table service, no buffet) was extensive, with a lot of local produce; the portions were generous and tasty. Fruit juice, normally a standard component of breakfast at such hotels, was available on request.

Last minute stay due to travel for family illness. The receptionist When we first got checked in and got to the room, the door was wedged open with damp towels and a robot vacuum cleaner was still in there but stationary. We decided to head out and come back later. When we got back the towels and vac were gone but the towels hadn’t been restocked. We had one bath and one hand towel. We had to ask at reception for the second towel. Not a big deal, but a sign that staff either don’t have the time or inclination to complete rooms properly. The room appeared clean but smelt bad, like damp dogs. Next morning my husband got in the shower to find the shower gel in the cubicle was empty, luckily I had a small emergency bottle and was able to rescue him. There was a kettle in the room but no tea, coffee or mugs. I thought maybe this was the normal standard for Travelodge these days but on staying in a different one the next night which was fully stocked I realised this was not the case. For a budget hotel we don’t expect the Ritz, but it did seem to fall short of even Travelodge’s usual standards.

Very friendly, welcoming and efficient staff. The lift was out of order but help with our luggage was offered immediately. Room was immaculate and well equipped, with air conditioning and a comfortable bed. The only inconvenience was no socket for the hairdryer near a mirror. Breakfast was well presented with a good choice of hot and cold items, but more seating would be useful. Staff were clearing tables as quickly as possible, but as it was a warm and sunny morning we ate outside. Would definitely stay here again.

Pub restaurant and private hotel in a rural location, close to a surprisingly busy main road and a short drive away from the pleasant small town of Aylsham. Stayed only one night but hope to be able to go back some time. Had a superb meal in the restaurant, waiting staff very polite and attentive. Room with a view across green fields was large, clean and newly-decorated as was the en-suite which had a powerful shower in a large cubicle. Bed was comfortable, slept fairly well although the duvet was a little too thick and the night not quite warm enough to sleep without covers! Kept the window open, therefore the noise of the passing traffic was quite evident but not objectionable. Our stay was beautifully rounded-off with a generous and very tasty full English breakfast with locally-sourced sausages and bacon.

I have to confess that I am a member of this establishment so have a vested interest in its success, but having just come off the golf course in need of a beer and some food, I was greeted enthusiastically by the bar staff despite the fact that the bar area was crowded with golf society folk who had obviously had a few bevvies, a private party and a full restaurant. The staff were literally running to make sure food was getting to where it was needed. There was a delay on food and we were advised in advance. Despite this our food was well cooked and very tasty. Special thanks to Maddy and Adam who always go the extra mile. Just be aware guys that you are appreciated by us members who see your hard work and dedication. PS this is a golf club so if you want a cheap pint get the number 29 bus to Norwich and get off at Hellesdon.