In November last year, I was one of a group of business people invited to the Park Inn to have a look at their newly refurbished rooms, reception and conference areas. We were also given a demonstration on Christmas Flower Arrangement. (I had never thought of using holly in that way).

To cut a long story short, there was a prize draw and I was lucky enought to win a FREE night accommodation for two, including dinner and full English breakfast in one of their business rooms.

Well, on Friday I took advantage of the offer and thought I would let you know how it went. It also coincided with my wedding anniversary (28 years) so extra brownie points from Liz.

We allowed plenty of time for the journey, which at 7.00 pm took all of 15 minutes, and checked in and booked our meal for 8.00 pm.

The room, 207 if your interested, was clean and fresh with all you need from a hotel bedroom. A comfortable bed. It did also have a couple of chairs, TV, tea and coffee making facilities with on-suite bathroom/shower etc., but most importantly, a comfortable bed.

At 8.00pm we arrived a the Priory Restaurant for our meal. If you have never been to the hotel before, you should check out the restaurant. It has a nice look, with the lighting and decor giving an intimate atmosphere. Liz and I particularly like the pictures on the wall,

Unfortunately, the hotel was not busy this particular evening and we were the only two people in the restaurant, but there was at least some background music to break the silence.

Our waitress was attentive, without being obtrusive and took our orders. We had a chat about it being so quiet in the restaurant. It had been busy around Christmas, particularly Christmas Day, but this evening there were few people in the hotel, and the staff were looking forward to their Christmas party the next evening. By this time a couple of guests came in for a meal as well.

The menu was limited, but covered all your major bases and obviously reflected the small number of diners. Although limited in choice, I wouldn't fault the food. Liz had mushrooms, braised lamb and lemon merangue and I had melon, sea bass and a selection of cheeses. Although the prize came with a complementary bottle of wine, we asked to change our drinks order and had a couple of beers and cokes instead.

All in all, we had a pleasant relaxing meal, in a comfortable restaurant and were generally made very welcome. My only wish would have been for more people to have been in the restaurant to add to the atmosphere.

Theres not much you can say about the sleeping arrangements, other than it was a very comfortabe bed and we slept well.

Breakfast next morning, again in the Priory Restaurant had a selection of self service options and we were offered the cooked breakfast. We chose instead to stick to cereal, toast, fruit salad and danish pastries. (You don't want to over do things).

We had a look around the swimming pool, gym and then checked out for a days shopping and cinema in Harlow.

I must say that we both had a very good night at the Park Inn and I would like to thank Martin for donating the prize and all of the staff for making us both welcome.