I resented paying £17 to park my car, and found the reception under-staffed. The road outside the hotel has free parking, but good luck finding a space.

I don't know if it's a Hampton thing, but those I've stayed at seem set up for reception and the bar to be manned by the same team - and at Blackpool the team was often only one-strong. The location is fine if you have business at the airport, work offshore or want to spend a time at the pleasure beach: otherwise you'll be walking or tramming it up to the commercial centre around the north of the town and the Tower.

The plusses are a large breakfast-room / restaurant, and comfortable rooms - though mine went into an irritating mini-tremor when the doors of rooms around me closed.

I've stayed at 4 Hamptons in the UK's NW over the last few weeks. I'd rate the Liverpool one top followed closely by Rochdale, then Blackpool with Manchester some way behind. On future trips to Blackpool, the Holiday Inn next to Blackpool North station is likely to get my business.