I have stayed at this hotel on several occasions - the main enticing reasons being the free covered car parking (with security) and also the prime location in Cork city. A 2minute stroll brings you onto Patrick Street and into the heart of the city, a perfect base for your shopping and pub needs! The hotel is bright and reception spacious. I have always been met with courteous and friendly staff at check-in, even when they have been under pressure. The main bar can be narrow in parts, but again has a light and spacious feel to it - service is friendly and efficient, and most obliging after hours with the residents bar while being respectful of sleeping guests. The rooms, while impeccably clean, do vary considerably in size. I have stayed in excellent large rooms on the 4th floor with views of the River Lee and into the city, but on my most recent visits have had an extremely small double room, window facing a wall. I requested a larger room during my visit in Decmber 07 and was appointed a medium sized double. Again, perfectly funtional, clean and comfortable but not as desireable as rooms facing the river on the higher floors. The breakfast is excellent at hotel. The room is very light, with glass views enabling you to take in the hustle and bustle of the city. Its is self service (bar the tea / coffee and toast that are bought to your table). Fresh fruits, juices and cereals and a full hot buffet to choose from (and visit as you please!) I will be staying at this hotel again in the future and would recommend it to visitors to Cork. It provides a great base from which to explore the vibrancy and variations of Cork city and the Gresham Metropole offers a warm welcome.