Having stayed at the hotel several times before over past 30 years, we were a little disappointed with our four day break. The view over the town bridge and river from seventh floor was excellent, the maid service was very consistent, and the room was spacious, bathroom quirky but fine. However, the safe was non-operational, the general decor a little tired, and reception staff not entirely welcoming, apart from Hermès. Particularly the charging for the first stay of many of £5 a night for parking was a surprise and unnecessary, especially as on one day, we were unable to access on many occasions that day because of a function at the hotel, of which were not pre-advised, and we incurred additional charges elsewhere in town. Overall, we were disappointed on this occasion, and will consider our travel arrangements elsewhere in future, sadly. We did not avail ourselves of and breakfast or other meals this time.