Address: Magdalen Street, Exeter EX2 4HY

Tel: 01392 281000

Barcelona? Exeter? Sorry I can't see the link.

There isn't one. Exeter's newest hotel was so named to reflect its 'funkiness and vibrancy' - words not normally associated with the gateway to the South West. It's owned by Alias Hotels,which brought primary colours to chintzy Cheltenham with the opening of the Hotel Kandinsky.

Tell me more.

Fifties armchairs, funky lamps, modern artwork and some intriguing fixtures - note the barber's chair on the landing - are a valiant attempt to disguise the fact that this looming red-brick Victorian building was once an eye hospital. Bedrooms are bright and stylish with comfy beds.

So you slept soundly?

Not quite. I was woken at midnight to be delivered water I didn't order and at 8am to be given train times I hadn't asked for.

And the food?

Fine, when it comes. Service in the conservatory-style Café Paradiso - which offers pizzas and Mediterranean-style dishes, was well-meaning but slow. We also waited 45 minutes for breakfast.

Will you go back then?

If they can get the level of service up to the same standard as the light fittings, the combination of retro chic and reasonable prices should prove a winner.

Rates from £80 for a double room, excluding breakfast. A two-night weekend package with breakfast and a meal costs £199 per room.