There can be a fine line between retro/cool and old/shabby. Regrettably our junior suite (room 27) definitely fell into the latter. Given the money were were charged, it was a disgrace. Old, tired and in the case of the bathroom, grubby. We should have known that the place needs a massive injection of money to give it an upgrade when, on arrival, half of the hotel's street side electronic sign wasn't working. Our room was also immediately above the hotel's kitchen extension that goes out into the back lane. Kept awake all night with staff chat and dropped trays etc.
OK - the good things. The staff, without exception, were brilliant. Courteous, friendly and helpful. We dined in the restaurant both nights we were there and couldn't fault it. The setting was terrific and the food quality was excellent.
In summary, this was the big splurge for our holiday and was supposed to be a major highlight. Turned out to be a massive disappointment. So - definitely go there for dinner, but don't stay the night.