Middle Park Hotel (Melbourne, Australia)

There's a great atmosphere here, generated by the busy and convivial bar. It does have a very British, ‘club' type atmosphere and guests can join locals in the activities (and prizes) offered by the Tipping Club. Members of staff do their bit to create this ambience and the whole thing is helped by the fact that the hotel is quite small - just 25 rooms. Nothing large and impersonal here!

Breakfast is excellent; well prepared, generously portioned and expertly served. The same can be said of the ‘pub grub' lunch and dinner menus - plus, the dining room is very welcoming and relaxing. Very impressive.

Bed linen is of excellent quality and the bed itself is extremely comfortable. It's the little things that impress and here, they include a tea and coffee maker ... and good quality tea and coffee. Transportation isn't a problem with the tram stop conveniently placed right outside.

There's corridor noise that's created every time the pass door is opened. A further irritation is that free parking is actually on the street and some is governed by time limitations. There's no elevator, but you don't expect it, really, in this size of establishment.

Rooms are a bit cramped, badly lit and in need of a touch of paint. It is comfortable though and the bathroom is fine. The sports related decorations give it the character that's missing in larger hotels.

There's no shower privacy due to the glass wall to the room itself. A source of some discomfort and embarrassment. Don't let it 'turn your head' either!