A large hotel just a few minutes walk from the centre of Ipswich.

The receptionist at check-in seemed a bit put-out by our arrival, which wasn't a great start. The staff were otherwise friendly and efficient during my stay.

I went for a superior room which was clean and nicely furnished. There's tea/coffee facilities, a safe, mini-bar, iron & ironing-board and a good shower. The bed however was very firm and uncomfortable - neither me nor my colleagues got a good nights sleep. I started to get used to the bed after the first night but it was still far from comfortable. There was also only two smallish cushions provided instead of proper pillows, which weren't really adequate.

Wired & wireless Internet access is available but is chargeable.

The breakfast was above average - a good continental selection and a good quality cooked breakfast too. Service was good and a free newspaper is provided. Makes a nice change to have a hotel breakfast worth getting up for!

Overall this is a nice hotel in a good location with great staff, but it was really let-down by the bed. I've stayed in several Novotels before, including this one, and have always had a comfortable bed so I'm not sure what's going on.

I will be forced to think twice before staying in this hotel again, despite its many good points.