I've come about face on this approach; which is what I always used to do. Now I find a shortlist of independent hotels via booking.com or lastminute, and then c

I've come about face on this approach; which is what I always used to do. Now I find a shortlist of independent hotels via booking.com or lastminute, and then contact them directly for deals. Usually you can get a higher quality service for a better price than chains. One tip, though, is to barter - especially if you're travelling midweek. I've got some excellent deals (including free evening meals, room upgrades etc.) by bartering at short notice for rooms that otherwise the hotel wouldn't fill. The best deal I got was a full suite, several free drinks, and free breakfast at a 5* London hotel for the price of one of their basic rooms. You just need the balls to negotiate :D Never book online if you can avoid it!