Paragon Hotel, Birmingham

Something of a departure for me in many ways is this one, after the semi disasterous year I enjoyed last year this 12 months of 2008 was marked down as clearing debts and enjoying myself time - how to achieve both being somewhat of an impossible balancing act. But the debts cleared up faster than expected so in early May I turned my head to the new target - having fun, lots of it. One of the forum sites I am a relatively active member of has pretty regular meet ups, and after deciding it was funtime the next was due to occur in Birmingham at some point during July, so in keeping with the fun ... more

Good location, nice architecture if you like Victorian Gothic BUT reservation policy needs reviewing. We booked weeks in advance for 2 single rooms, on day of stay we were offered a twin on the 1st floor. A collegue who had booked on internet was told his reservation lapsed at 4.00pm, so when he came to book in at 5.30, no room was available. No alternative was available either. Our room was cramped and damp, skips were emptied at 5.15am, We were then told breakfast was not included, despite the fact it was shown on our booking as being included. Left at 9.30 am the following morning exhausted ... more