Hackley Bay

Average at best. Not particularly hospitable. I was locked out of my room twice. I met a lovely elderly lady in her zimmer staed on my corridor,who was also having difficulty accessing her room. I offered to help. When that wasn't feasible I then went down to the reception. I rang the buzzer 3 times. Just no staff. Bags of rubbish left in the corridor. Fruit flies in my room suggest it may well be needing a look in to regards to hygiene. I did extend my stay, mainly due to mobility issues, but I doubt very much that I'll be back. A shame as it's a decent area. More effort is needed.

A night away with a great breakfast

The Mercure is an older and I suspect much grander hotel at one time. It has a sense of opulence about it with wide staircases, high ceilings and stained glass windows, however there are also signs of aging, i.e. worn carpets, old windows. I think it adds to the charm. The breakfast staff were very attentive and pleasant. Breakfast was typical fare, with adequate choices available. My room was well appointed and the bed comfortable. My only complaint was noise made by the fire door slamming shut when people went through late at night.The location was a short walk from the central bus/ train station, and across the street from the union terrace gardens, a little green oasis in this granite city. I enjoyed my stay and would come again.