The Old Library - Modern Apartment near the Train Station and Racecourse

I stayed at The Old Library in Newbury from April 11th–13th for my mum’s birthday, and unfortunately, the experience was incredibly disappointing from start to finish. Upon arrival, we were given the wrong key code and couldn’t get into the property. None of the contact numbers provided worked, leaving us stranded until someone eventually got back to us. When we finally entered, we realised we had been placed in the wrong apartment — smaller, with no balcony, and not the one I paid extra for. The property was aware that the correct apartment wasn't ready due to cleaning issues but chose not to tell us, seemingly hoping we wouldn’t notice. We were told we could move later, but only found out at 8pm that we wouldn’t be able to switch until the next day — due to a "bad smell" they couldn’t fix that night. This delay completely disrupted our Friday night and meant we couldn’t settle in or unpack. The apartment we were initially placed in had broken door handles, a flickering TV, no toiletries as advertised, and just half a roll of toilet paper — which was particularly problematic as both my mum and I have Crohn’s disease. On Saturday morning we were told to move, which meant rearranging our plans again. While the second apartment was much better, the experience overall had already been tainted. To make matters worse, I noticed an unauthorised £50 charge after we left. I was told this was a mistake, but it was an upsetting surprise. When I raised concerns and requested compensation, I was told it would be denied due to a phone call made by someone else (a friend who contacted the property out of concern for our experience). I had no knowledge or involvement in that call and feel it’s unfair to penalise me for someone else's actions. We left the apartment spotless and on time, and I even sent a thank-you message hoping to resolve things amicably. Sadly, I’ve been left feeling let down, out of pocket, and extremely disappointed.

Great location.

You have to send ID and check in online in advance which was an inconvenience having to mess around taking photos of driving licence etc. Flat was very grubby, needed a good clean and dust. WiFi very poor, kept losing connection intermittently. No coffee/tea/milk provided. No shower gel/soap. Shower screen needed a clean. Lots of mildew in bathroom and around sealant. Very, very overpriced for what it actually is.