THE HOTEL: The Ibis Hotel Sheffield, a 95-room Accor property well located in the city centre. Just off the enormous Park Square roundabout and close to the city's popular tram network.
CHECK-IN: One and then two members of staff quickly came to assist us and had our small group promptly checked-in to our respective rooms. They were also kind enough to grant our request for a parking space in the secure, shared car park to the rear of the hotel for no extra cost.
THE ROOM: A reasonable sized room given the low price paid, featuring a comfortable and crisp double bed, narrow desk by the window, tea and coffee-making facilities, hanging space and flatscreen television with a range of channels, internet access and pay-TV. The bathroom, which appeared molded from a single piece of plastic, had a large mirror, sink, toilet and good shower. The room was on the warm side but opening the window dealt with that – the corridor outside the room, however, was unbearably hot for the entirety of the stay.
THE BUSINESS: There's wireless internet access available throughout the hotel but no meeting rooms or business centre.
THE FACILITIES: The ground floor features the reception desk; a sofa area with flyers and leaflets with local information, plus a small selection of essentials on sale; and a bar and restaurant area with plenty of tables and seating, plus large elevated television screen. Breakfast is served here from 4am to midday, with the full all-you-can-eat buffet on offer from 6.30-10am – and very good it is too, with plenty to choose from in terms of both food and drink. Snacks and liquid refreshments are available from the bar/reception round-the-clock.
THE VERDICT: A good city centre budget option, with comfortable rooms, friendly and accommodating staff, pleasant bar/restaurant area and hearty buffet spread. Real value for money.
THE DETAILS: Rates currently available as advertised from £37 per room per night, including buffet breakfast. The Ibis Sheffield, Shude Hill, Sheffield, S1 2AR. Tel: 0114 2419600; or see www.ibishotel.com for more information. Andy Hoskins
