If this hotel had been in a location that could attract somewhat premium prices week-round it would definitely have been a W or perhaps a Luxury something or other. It's so NOT an Aloft. It's an old, listed building that has had a remarkable redesign. The rooms are indeed all over the place, as is often the case in such properties. The decor is a bit toned down from W standards, but the look and feel of the place reminds me very much of the Foshay in Minneapolis.

They have a proper restaurant and bar serving very good food (at least last time I ate there). The restaurant serves a full breakfast buffet style when busy (free for plats), while during the week when quiet I have been offered one of three hot dishes plus the cold buffet stuff (the waste would have been pretty bad with a hot buffet laid out). The barman last time I was there was new and very good.

The place in general, as has been stated, is much like the town on the whole: a destination escape location for weekends, pretty quiet during the week. I've done a work/play almost week-long stay and the difference was remarkable, a chill location Sunday to Wednesday, while things ramp up Thu/Fri/Sat. The property may well sell out very early on big weekends: for example the big Cunard cruise ships are back in town on July 4th and they are sold out that day already. During the week the place is an absolute steal. The location is great for both some of the best old school pubs on Dale Street (Rigby's, Ship and Mitre) and a lot of trendy food and drink spots in the new central area. Points stays overall right now a total bargain for what you get, especially as Plat with the breakfasts.

EDIT: bar's closed in the mornings, seemingly, at least during the week. Did not make breakfast on Sat/Sun