The location: Set on Calder Way, a short drive from Heathrow's Terminal 5, in something akin to a mini industrial estate.
The check-in: No queue when I arrived, but one rapidly formed behind me. Polite service and a minor problem with my reservation was professionally dealt with.
The room: Large, plain, spartan and smart, much like the reception area. Style has been overlooked in favour of functionality – as you'd expect from a budget hotel chain – though there is a splash of colour in the furnishings. The room featured air con-ditioning, comfortable double bed, a sofa-bed, desk, tea & coffee-making facilities, several lighting options and wall-mounted television with eight channels. Hair dryers, irons and ironing boards are available to borrow from reception. Bathroom amenities are not supplied.
The facilities: There's an on-site bar and restaurant, plus vending machines. A basic but filling main meal and a pint came to £9. Parking is available on-site at the cost of £5 per 24hrs, but is only available while resident. The Hotel Hoppa to T5 costs £4 one-way and calls at the Travelodge at regular intervals. Taxis to and from T5 cost £13.
The CHECKOUT: Done with in a flash.
The verdict: All you'd expect from a budget hotel, with a little more thrown in. There are few frills – and that's what keeps the price down – but it really is convenient for those flying in and/or out of Heathrow's T5. Those with time on their hands might be kicking their heels in the hotel's isolated location, but the new-style rooms are smart, clean and comfortable – and there's a decent and reasonably-priced bar and restaurant too.
The details: Rates start from £55 per room per night. Check in is from 3pm onwards; checkout is midday. www.travelodge.co.uk Andy Hoskins
