Mercure Whately Hall Banbury - Banbury, United Kingdom 

I booked this hotel for a party of 7 for a small family get together. Generally, the hotel was excellent. The staff were friendly and extremely helpful although it was clear they were short staffed due to a large Wedding party. The rooms were comfortable and clean, although no consideration seemed to be made on room allocation, our single party member was allocated a king size room where as the twin room was a small double, but it did not detract from the experience. We had dinner in the restaurant and the quality of the food was fantastic. We dined as part of a package and so the price was very reasonable.

We decided to stay in Banbury for a night to break a long journey and as Banbury is just off the M40 it was an ideal choice. Hotel is in a fantastic location next to 'Banbury' cross in the centre of town. Hotel has it's own free car prak which is also a bonus. Staff were excellent, friendly and nothing seemed to be a problem. We stayed in a room in the new part of the hotel and it was large and clean with a lovely view of the garden. We did not use the hotel restaurant as opted to eat in one of the many restaurants around town. We also made use of 'Weatherspoons' round the corner for breakfast instead of paying 15pound each at the hotel. The hotel itself is quite historic, but being in the newer part of the hotel this was lost, altho the reception and bar areas have some original features. I wouldn't hesitate staying again and as it was Sunday we got a very good rate via laterooms - so shop around for a good deal.