My wife and I stayed at the Ascot in Oct 2002 and May 2004. As you say it is a basic hotel with limited public areas. The food was good though choice was limited. The rooms were of adequate size and furnishings. Staff were friendly and helpful.For us the location was ideal. It is on the SITA bus route to the peninsula and we like to visit the villages and ramble through the countryside. It is also on the orange bus route to the railway station although its not far to walk. It is in easy reach of Piazza Tasso and the lift or steps down to the port. In the evening you can stroll through the shop-lined alleyways of the old centre or along Corso Italia, closed to traffic in summer. Lots of bars and restaurants nearby.

Many thanks for that Peter.
It sounds realy nice and always a good recommendation when you hear of return visits.
We have enjoyed fantastic holidays staying at the Aminta which is about a 30 minute walk (climb) away from the centre and has fabulous views of Sorrento. The Aminta also runs a free transfer into town but we often find ourseleves clock watching so as not to miss the bus back. So we were thinking of trading the views for the central location. Oh well we will see.
Pete