This hotel offers comfortable accommodation in Harlow, a town with several golf courses in its vicinity, including Canons Brook Golf Club, providing a practical base for golf enthusiasts.
Features an 18-hole Championship Golf Course designed around the hotel, a par 71 layout. The course includes the longest hole in Hertfordshire and offers year-round golf.
Roydon Marina Village Hotel enjoys a picturesque and tranquil setting by the marina, offering a wonderful retreat with beautiful countryside and serene canals perfect for relaxing walks and scenic evening strolls. Its convenient location provides easy access to both London and Cambridge through nearby train stations, making it ideal for both urban exploration and quiet getaways. Guests consistently praise the peaceful environment and beautiful surroundings, complemented by ample parking and a nearby train station facilitating easy travel.
The hotel boasts clean, cozy and comfortable rooms that offer good value for money, featuring modern amenities and lovely views of the canal or river. The large room sizes and smart furnishings enhance guest comfort, although some minor issues with shower conditions and occasional noise were noted. Nevertheless, cleanliness and the efforts of the friendly and helpful staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, underscoring the hotel’s reputation for meticulous upkeep and welcoming service.
Dining options are a standout feature with an on-site Indian restaurant renowned for its superb food and friendly service. Additionally, Marcos, a small Italian restaurant, offers exceptional cuisine and service, while the Boathouse café provides pleasant, simple meals overlooking the water. Although breakfast at the café has limited hours and some constraints, it is generally well-received for its quality and value.
The hotel offers excellent parking facilities, described as ample, secure and convenient, further enhancing the guest experience. Family-friendly amenities and a safe, quiet atmosphere make it an attractive option for those traveling with children, providing spacious and accommodating rooms suited for family stays.
However, the hotel does face consistent criticism regarding its poor WiFi service, which is noted as weak and unreliable, impacting the overall guest experience. Additionally, while the hotel is largely accessible with ground-floor rooms and a walkable vicinity, it lacks some advanced accessibility features such as disabled toilets.
In conclusion, Roydon Marina Village Hotel offers a serene escape with modern amenities, delightful dining options, clean and comfortable accommodations and a family-friendly environment. Despite minor drawbacks such as WiFi issues and some room-related concerns, the tranquil setting, convenient location and exceptional staff service make it a memorable choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and easy urban access.
The Funky Monk Hotel receives overwhelmingly positive reviews across several categories, particularly highlighting its excellent location, staff and dining experiences. Situated on Epping High Street, the hotel offers a modern and trendy stay with convenient access to local shops, food options and the tube station, making it a prime spot for travelers keen to explore the area.
Guests frequently commend the delicious and varied breakfast options, noting the inclusion of breakfast in the room price as an added perk. While there are some concerns about the late breakfast start time and occasional issues with ingredient quality, the overall breakfast experience is favorable. Dinner, on the other hand, is consistently praised for its superb quality with standout dishes like monkfish and exquisite pasta, coupled with an enjoyable dining atmosphere and excellent service.
The rooms are described as beautifully decorated, clean and luxurious. Despite being on the smaller side, they are equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay. The cleanliness of the hotel is top-notch, consistently impressing guests with its spotless condition. The fiercely clean environment adds to the welcoming ambiance of the hotel.
The staff at Funky Monk Hotel stand out for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness and professionalism. Guests appreciate the personal touches and the managerial team's efforts to create a VIP experience, making their stay memorable. From assisting with parking to offering a welcoming drink upon arrival, the staff's dedication enhances the overall guest experience.
Lastly, the beds are highly rated for their comfort and quality, contributing to a restful night's sleep. Despite minor mentions of small or vibrating beds, the majority of guests are very satisfied with the bedding, further contributing to the hotel's charm. The combination of friendly staff, excellent food and comfortable bedding makes the Funky Monk Hotel a highly recommended choice for travelers.