I stayed at the Courtyard Hotel (owned by Marriot) and my overall experience was good. I stayed in a twin room, overlooking the Brayford Pool Marina; it was spacious and comfortable. Although the décor in the main bedroom area looked like it needed updating it did, nonetheless, create a relaxing ambience. The bathroom, on the other hand, made up for the disappointing bedroom décor. This extravagant and rather ostentatious bathroom was gorgeous, complete with a basket of smelly goodies, power shower and, something I’ve never experienced before, speakers so that you don’t miss what’s happening on TV.
The location of this hotel is excellent; adjacent to the Brayford Pool, the view was great and it’s proximity to the city centre is good – not too close so that you feel like you’re in a concrete jungle, but close enough to walk there. There are also a number of bars, restaurants and a cinema all within 5 minutes walking distance. This has its upside – you don’t have far to walk after your night out. It also has its downside; with my room overlooking the entrance to the hotel and the main street, you can hear people leaving clubs in the early hours, but if you’re one of them, it won’t matter to you!
The hotel also has leisure facilities, is wheelchair and pram friendly and has it’s own café/restaurant. Room service is available and although the menu is not massive, my food arrived quickly, with friendly service and I found the portions large and delicious. However, this is reflected in the price.
As one of the world’s leading international hotel chains, Marriot’s prices reflect their market position. I paid roughly £70 for bed and breakfast per night, plus extra for room service. There are other, cheaper bed-and-breakfast establishments in Lincoln, but it is questionable whether their facilities and service are as professional and as customer service-orientated as Marriot.