The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
The Drawing Room is the perfect venue for a boardroom meeting or intimate private dining event, and can accommodate up to 25 delegates in a theatre layout or 16 for private dining.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
The Drawing Room is the perfect venue for a boardroom meeting or intimate private dining event, and can accommodate up to 25 delegates in a theatre layout or 16 for private dining.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
Classic Lodges has just purchased a new hotel into their group, Solberge Hall in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. This new addition is a handsome 24 bedroom Georgian mansion with 4 meeting rooms and conference capacity theatre style up to 250 delegates, with free car parking and free Wi-Fi. Tucked between the North Yorkshire Moors and the Dales, but not far from the A1M and A684, Solberge Hall has a variety of different event spaces that can accommodate any number of delegates from 10 up to 250. The four meeting rooms are The Drawing Room, The Dales Room, The Beach Room and The Hambleton Suite.
The Drawing Room is the perfect venue for a boardroom meeting or intimate private dining event, and can accommodate up to 25 delegates in a theatre layout or 16 for private dining.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
Classic Lodges has just purchased a new hotel into their group, Solberge Hall in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. This new addition is a handsome 24 bedroom Georgian mansion with 4 meeting rooms and conference capacity theatre style up to 250 delegates, with free car parking and free Wi-Fi. Tucked between the North Yorkshire Moors and the Dales, but not far from the A1M and A684, Solberge Hall has a variety of different event spaces that can accommodate any number of delegates from 10 up to 250. The four meeting rooms are The Drawing Room, The Dales Room, The Beach Room and The Hambleton Suite.
The Drawing Room is the perfect venue for a boardroom meeting or intimate private dining event, and can accommodate up to 25 delegates in a theatre layout or 16 for private dining.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
Classic Lodge Group buys Solberge Hall
Classic Lodges has just purchased a new hotel into their group, Solberge Hall in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. This new addition is a handsome 24 bedroom Georgian mansion with 4 meeting rooms and conference capacity theatre style up to 250 delegates, with free car parking and free Wi-Fi. Tucked between the North Yorkshire Moors and the Dales, but not far from the A1M and A684, Solberge Hall has a variety of different event spaces that can accommodate any number of delegates from 10 up to 250. The four meeting rooms are The Drawing Room, The Dales Room, The Beach Room and The Hambleton Suite.
The Drawing Room is the perfect venue for a boardroom meeting or intimate private dining event, and can accommodate up to 25 delegates in a theatre layout or 16 for private dining.
The Dales Room is naturally lit, with air conditioning. It is capable of accommodating up to 90 in a theatre setup, The Dales Room has its own private terrace area and direct access to the gardens with beautiful views.
The naturally-lit Beech Room has capacity for up to 180 delegates or guests. There is direct access to the gardens which can be used as a break out area or for team building activities. It also has its own private terraced and is fully wheelchair accessible.
The purpose built and air conditioned Hambleton Suite has the capacity for up to 250 delegates or guests, and is naturally lit with panoramic views for miles. Ideal for larger conferences and banqueting, it has direct access on all sides to the gardens for team building activities. There are two outdoor terraces for guests to spill out onto and enjoy the views, or for break out meetings on warmer days. The suite is entirely wheelchair accessible.
On first impressions the hotel appears to be modern, yet you only have to look inside the hotel to see that it is in fact a Victorian hotel with lots of period features from high ceilings to opulent chandeliers. The hotel is set majestically overlooking Torquay bay and offers guests plenty of opportunity to take in the beautiful sea views, from public areas to some of the conference rooms. The hotel has eight conference rooms in total, with the Torbay Suite, the largest, accommodating up to 350 theatre style. It also has the added benefit of a private balcony overlooking the sea. The hotel offers lots of comfortable public space which can be used for registration, receptions and breakout space. There are 152 bedrooms, 89 with sea views and 130 on-site car parking spaces. The hotel is just over half a mile from the train station. In addition to a health & leisure club the hotel also has an outside pool. The hotel is due to undergo a refurbishment programme to bedrooms and conferencing space shortly, to give the space a more contemporary feel. The hotel has a number of single bedrooms, so it is a good idea to request double for single occupancy. The hotel is also popular with tour groups.
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Crowne Plaza – Birmingham City Centre
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Crowne Plaza – Birmingham City Centre
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
I recently went on a trip to visit to hotels round Birmingham and Stratford Upon Avon. If you’re considering these locations for your events, then take a look or give me a call for more information.
Crowne Plaza – Birmingham City Centre
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
I recently went on a trip to visit to hotels round Birmingham and Stratford Upon Avon. If you’re considering these locations for your events, then take a look or give me a call for more information.
Crowne Plaza – Birmingham City Centre
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
Birmingham and Stratford upon Avon site visit report
I recently went on a trip to visit to hotels round Birmingham and Stratford Upon Avon. If you’re considering these locations for your events, then take a look or give me a call for more information.
Crowne Plaza – Birmingham City Centre
On arrival at the main entrance of the Crown Plaza, you automatically feel that you are arriving at a quality hotel. The colour scheme is masculine and is dominated by the red bar. The public areas are contemporary and pleasant, albeit a bit dark for my taste. The bar is open 24 hours for house guests and the standard bedrooms are a good size and decorated in muted tones. All bedrooms have opening windows. The club rooms are a little bigger but very similar in style, however, you get complimentary entry in the club lounge which would be good for a one to one meeting prior to an event. Both guests would need to have Club rooms to gain access. You get complimentary drinks and nibbles pre-dinner and you can also take continental breakfast in the club lounge. The corridors are very dark and the hotel is in the process of sourcing a lighter colour as this has been commented on a lot by the guest feedback. Parking is also a little difficult as they only have 50 spaces on a first come first served basis.
Jury’s Inn – Birmingham
On approaching the hotel the exterior looks a little dated, however once in the reception, the feel is modern, contemporary, and quite funky! For the rates charged, I feel this hotel reflects good value for money and is a great location for any events at the ICC. The bedrooms are a bit stark and looked a bit bare around the windows. However, the windows are large and allow plenty light in. The windows are fixed in a closed position. It is a very tall hotel, so you are guaranteed good views if you are allocated a high floor.
Novotel – Birmingham City Centre
The exterior of this property looks fresh and modern, and on entering reception the colour scheme was bright and fresh and had a modern airy feel. There are lots of clusters of tables and chairs, good for networking on break outs from meeting rooms which are all on the street level. Overall the hotel had a tranquil feel for a city hotel which was nice. Bedrooms were of a good standard and modern in décor, fresh and light in colour and in design. Broad Street is a “party street” in the evenings and female guests would need to get a taxi from the ICC as it can be quite raucous.
Hampton by Hilton – Birmingham
This is a huge hotel located in the heart of Broad Street. When you enter the hotel, it is a strange entrance as there are a bank of lifts to take you up to the 3rd floor, where you walk out of the lift right in front of the Reception desk. The Reception staff are also the bar staff and the overall feel is very modern and relaxed and informal. The breakfast area is self-service and guests are encouraged to help themselves. The guests can also take food back to their room as bags are provided to make your own take away as there is no room service which keeps costs down. The overall feel is trimmed back and uncomplicated. The hotel were quite open that the reception etc. starts on the 3rd floor due to the nature of Broad Street at night. The street is all clubs and bars and can be lively on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. If female guests stay, it does feel secure as the room key card also operates the lift, so public cannot access bedrooms easily. The bedrooms are a good size and are fresh in decor, the corridors are nice and bright and airy. Whilst this is the budget end of the Hilton brand, the beds are the same quality as the main Hilton product. Car parking is available in house and is directly under the hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn, Birmingham
The Hilton Garden Inn is located in Brindley Place which is set back from Broad Street and has a more tranquil feel by day. In the evening Brindley Place is popular with diners etc. and looks more stylish than Broad Street. The hotel is locked from 12 midnight for security reasons and can be accessed with a room key card. The hotel has a fresh, bright and modern reception, smaller than I expected but a nice atmosphere all the same. There is a snack pantry in the corner of the lobby where you can buy microwave meals, snacks and drinks if a late arrival etc. Parking is in a first-come first-served basis. There is also a well-appointed gym for guests to use during their stay. The bedrooms are fresh and contemporary, all corridors are bright and fresh. This hotel would be my choice to stay in Birmingham if I was attending the ICC!
Hyatt Regency – Birmingham
This hotel dominates the skyline and looks very “glitzy”, linked by an air bridge to the ICC and Symphony Hall. On walking into the hotel the atmosphere is definitely that of a 4* deluxe hotel and even has a swimming pool. Bedrooms are a good size and furnished to a high standard. The hotel has 24 floors and the rooms have full length windows, so not for the faint hearted if you don’t like heights. Lower rooms are available, but the view is very impressive. There is a Regency Club lounge for the club guests only. A very nice space to relax if you arrive a bit early for the evening event, also complimentary pre-dinner drinks and continental breakfast can be taken in the club lounge. There are great panoramic views of the city from this lounge. The height of the building may put some vertigo suffers off!
Copthorne Hotel
This hotel is located at the Paradise Forum which is the current/next area of the city centre due for regeneration. On arrival walking from the square in front of the new library, you have to walk through a demolition area as the hotel is located within the regeneration area. Once the old library is demolished, the rebuild will commence and the current Copthorne is planning to keep trading until the new building is complete. Then they will move in overnight and start trading in the new property. However, the redevelopment of the area is 2 years behind schedule and Birmingham city council have to demolish buildings before it can be regenerated. On arrival at reception, it is very tired as are the public areas. The bedrooms are clean but old fashioned. There is no investment in the property as it will be demolished and and the surrounding are has building noise from Monday to Friday 8.00 to 5.00pm, I would not recommend this hotel until such time as the new property has been constructed.
Holiday Inn – Stratford Upon Avon
I arrived at hotel and immediate impression is of a soulless 70’s building. However appearances can be deceptive and on entering the lobby, it has been refurbished to a high standard and was very contemporary and sparkly. Lots of polished marble and bright open spaces. All the public areas are open plan and flow well. There is plenty of car parking which surrounds the hotel on all sides. The main restaurant is on ground level and has a nice terrace overlooking the river Avon. The ballroom and main meeting rooms are also on the ground floor and you can easily access fresh air on the terrace for breaks. The corridors towards the bedrooms are a bit tired and not as contemporary. The bedrooms are being refurbished in stages and should be complete by the end of 2015. I stayed in an Executive room which had been refurbished. The styling of the rooms was very modern – the ceiling was dark brown and the room was very masculine and colour scheme is not being rolled out as it was considered too dark from the guest feedback.
Mercury The Shakespeare – Stratford Upon Avon
This hotel is located in the centre of the town and is a very attractive Tudor beamed building. On entering the hotel, it is very much a leisure hotel with low beamed ceilings and small cosy areas. There is a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the ground floor accessed by a quilted padded walled walkway which looked odd in my opinion, but maybe that is the MPW signature – not sure! I cannot comment on the bedrooms as a show round was unavailable as the hotel was fully booked. I think that this hotel is probably more suitable for a leisure break than a formal meeting or conference.
Macdonald Alveston Manor – Stratford Upon Avon
Located just of the town centre, a five minute walk over the bridge, this hotel is very attractive from the outside and has large parking directly all around the hotel. It also benefits from a lovely lawned garden off the meeting space with a tranquil feel that makes it hard to believe you are so close to the centre. The reception and restaurant areas are traditional and quite formal. Bedrooms are of a good standard and they are all accessed by stairs as there isn’t a lift. There are accessible rooms on the ground floor, if needed. I also viewed a one bedroom suite which was very pleasant with a private patio on the garden. This would be ideal for one to one meetings for senior executives. Alternatively, this hotel would also make a very nice leisure destination.
Macdonald Swan’s Nest – Stratford Upon Avon
A little sister hotel to the Alveston with 36 rooms located over the road from Alveston Manor, the hotel is the oldest red brick building in Stratford. Opposite the hotel entrance is the river Avon and boat hire can be arranged from here. The hotel can also arrange drink receptions etc. working with the boat hire company. The main hotel restaurant is a franchised “Le Bistrot Pierre” which can be used seamlessly by guests of the Swan’s Nest or Alveston Manor. There is also “The Bear” pub off the main Reception area which is a really cosy pub within the hotel, again would be a nice relaxation area in the evening. The bistro and the bar are having a makeover in September 2015, but they already looked nice to me! The bedrooms are very neutral but fresh and refurbished. The bathrooms are of a good standard. This is a small hotel however ideal for a smaller group.
Best Western Grosvenor – Stratford Upon Avon
My initial impressions from the outside are that the building is a bit tired. The hotel is located on the busy ring round on the approach to the town. Once inside, the reception and public areas are bright and fresh and a blend of old and new. The bedroom shown was small but I was assured this was the smallest. The bathrooms were tired. This hotel is located on the busy Stratford approach ring road.
The Stratford – Q Hotels – Stratford Upon Avon
Located off the centre of Stratford, this is a modern stylish red brick building of recent construction. The public areas are open plan with lots of small clusters and quiet corners, decorated in quite dark but a contemporary style. Bedrooms were fully occupied so unable to see any rooms. The hotel has a nice feel and would be good for corporate and leisure as the town is walkable within 15-20 minutes. The hotel is near the business park area and lacks atmosphere in its surrounding and is on a busy road.
The 4-star, 26-bed Greyfriars boutique hotel opened on Thursday, 23rd July 2015. It has been developed from Essex County Council’s former adult community college building on the High Street in Colchester. There are 26 bedrooms and the hotel has rooms for conferences, meetings and private dining.
We had a really interesting visit from Jurys Inns recently, who are investing more than £30m in their hotels in 2015-2016.
Their hotels in Plymouth, Southampton and Brighton (pictured) will be refurbished by the end of 2015 and their Nottingham and Liverpool properties are starting refurbishment in the first quarter of 2016. They are currently in the process of getting permission to extend their Edinburgh hotel.
Something to remember: 198 of Jurys 205 meeting rooms have natural daylight.
The key to is to experience it to understand it. They are trying to change people’s perception as some people think of Jurys as a “Budget option” when it is really a good quality product competitively priced and that they are truly passionate about event.
Hand Picked Hotels sells Seiont Manor and the Priest House Hotel
Hand Picked Hotels is selling Seiont Manor in North Wales and the 4-star Priest House Hotel near Castle Donington, Leicestershire. These are two of its smallest properties and the group is going to concentrate on its portfolio of larger country houses and is actively looking for new hotels in “strategic locations”. Once these two hotels have been sold the group will consist of 19 hotels.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
Split over two floors (the Gallery and the Studio), there are nine function spaces hosting up to 235 delegates in total, or 100 in the largest. Some of the features of the new generation meeting space includes, modern On the Move food and beverage experiences, interactive breakout space in the Studio and Gallery areas, and secure wireless internet connectivity throughout. The Marriott has also introduced the Red Coat Direct App, which creates instant communication between the event planner and the hotel team, which means that organisers can manage your event without ever leaving your seat. The App deals with real-time requests for coffee refills, room temperature changes. It is sent by the host hotel three days before the event begins and is available in 20 languages.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
Split over two floors (the Gallery and the Studio), there are nine function spaces hosting up to 235 delegates in total, or 100 in the largest. Some of the features of the new generation meeting space includes, modern On the Move food and beverage experiences, interactive breakout space in the Studio and Gallery areas, and secure wireless internet connectivity throughout. The Marriott has also introduced the Red Coat Direct App, which creates instant communication between the event planner and the hotel team, which means that organisers can manage your event without ever leaving your seat. The App deals with real-time requests for coffee refills, room temperature changes. It is sent by the host hotel three days before the event begins and is available in 20 languages.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
Split over two floors (the Gallery and the Studio), there are nine function spaces hosting up to 235 delegates in total, or 100 in the largest. Some of the features of the new generation meeting space includes, modern On the Move food and beverage experiences, interactive breakout space in the Studio and Gallery areas, and secure wireless internet connectivity throughout. The Marriott has also introduced the Red Coat Direct App, which creates instant communication between the event planner and the hotel team, which means that organisers can manage your event without ever leaving your seat. The App deals with real-time requests for coffee refills, room temperature changes. It is sent by the host hotel three days before the event begins and is available in 20 languages.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
The Kensington Marriott has recently completed a £1.2 million refurbishment to their meeting space. The first Next Gen Meeting Space in Marriott’s UK portfolio, the space embodies the new Meetings Imagined concepts and features technology and creativity to make clients meetings more social, more collaborative and more effective.
Split over two floors (the Gallery and the Studio), there are nine function spaces hosting up to 235 delegates in total, or 100 in the largest. Some of the features of the new generation meeting space includes, modern On the Move food and beverage experiences, interactive breakout space in the Studio and Gallery areas, and secure wireless internet connectivity throughout. The Marriott has also introduced the Red Coat Direct App, which creates instant communication between the event planner and the hotel team, which means that organisers can manage your event without ever leaving your seat. The App deals with real-time requests for coffee refills, room temperature changes. It is sent by the host hotel three days before the event begins and is available in 20 languages.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
The Kensington Marriott has recently completed a £1.2 million refurbishment to their meeting space. The first Next Gen Meeting Space in Marriott’s UK portfolio, the space embodies the new Meetings Imagined concepts and features technology and creativity to make clients meetings more social, more collaborative and more effective.
Split over two floors (the Gallery and the Studio), there are nine function spaces hosting up to 235 delegates in total, or 100 in the largest. Some of the features of the new generation meeting space includes, modern On the Move food and beverage experiences, interactive breakout space in the Studio and Gallery areas, and secure wireless internet connectivity throughout. The Marriott has also introduced the Red Coat Direct App, which creates instant communication between the event planner and the hotel team, which means that organisers can manage your event without ever leaving your seat. The App deals with real-time requests for coffee refills, room temperature changes. It is sent by the host hotel three days before the event begins and is available in 20 languages.
The next generation meetings space also has wireless enabled LED screens and projectors, versatile seating solutions in all meeting spaces and breakout areas, write on walls and breakout tables, natural daylight in the Gallery meeting space and interactive meeting room features.
The Bloomsbury Hotel has doubled the capacity of their outdoor terrace from 40 to 100. The new terrace will have a retractable canopy for all year round use and completion of the renovation is expected to be the end of September. Located in the heart of central London, there are five conference rooms, including George V Hall with capacity for over 300 delegates, Queen Mary Hall, The Chapel and The Library all ideally designed for large events. For smaller events, such as a formal lunch or board meeting, the wood-panelled, book-lined Seamus Heaney Library, or The Chapel can be used. Seven suites with a maximum capacity of 60 delegates theatre style are also available in the dedicated Meetings Centre. There Plasma TVs, LCD projectors and screens throughout and there is a separate entrance and reception desk for delegates.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Bobby Moore Room is Wembley’s grandest space and is split across two levels joined by two sweeping staircases and stunning pitch views from the mezzanine. On a match day this is the home of the Club Wembley seat holders and is the largest restaurant in Europe serving over 1,500 members. This venue works well for both daytime events using the mezzanine as an ideal break out space, or for luxurious Gala Dinners with drinks upstairs over-looking the pitch before descending the stairs to dinner. The maximum capacity for the room is 1050 theatre style.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
The Bobby Moore Room is Wembley’s grandest space and is split across two levels joined by two sweeping staircases and stunning pitch views from the mezzanine. On a match day this is the home of the Club Wembley seat holders and is the largest restaurant in Europe serving over 1,500 members. This venue works well for both daytime events using the mezzanine as an ideal break out space, or for luxurious Gala Dinners with drinks upstairs over-looking the pitch before descending the stairs to dinner. The maximum capacity for the room is 1050 theatre style.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
With a capacity of 90,000 Wembley is the largest stadium in the UK and home of the biggest football events of the season, the NFL, Rugby World Cup and various music concerts throughout the year. In addition to this, beneath the imposing arch, there is a variety of fantastic spaces available to hire for all types of events ranging from small executive board meetings in a private box, to large conferences and exhibitions in the impressive Great Hall or an elaborate cocktail reception and gala dinner in the Bobby Moore suite. The stadium has good transport links, on-site parking and a wide choice of hotels within walking distance. There is full disabled access along with air conditioning, natural daylight and WiFi available in all room options.
The Bobby Moore Room is Wembley’s grandest space and is split across two levels joined by two sweeping staircases and stunning pitch views from the mezzanine. On a match day this is the home of the Club Wembley seat holders and is the largest restaurant in Europe serving over 1,500 members. This venue works well for both daytime events using the mezzanine as an ideal break out space, or for luxurious Gala Dinners with drinks upstairs over-looking the pitch before descending the stairs to dinner. The maximum capacity for the room is 1050 theatre style.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
Why you need to consider Wembley Stadium for an event
With a capacity of 90,000 Wembley is the largest stadium in the UK and home of the biggest football events of the season, the NFL, Rugby World Cup and various music concerts throughout the year. In addition to this, beneath the imposing arch, there is a variety of fantastic spaces available to hire for all types of events ranging from small executive board meetings in a private box, to large conferences and exhibitions in the impressive Great Hall or an elaborate cocktail reception and gala dinner in the Bobby Moore suite. The stadium has good transport links, on-site parking and a wide choice of hotels within walking distance. There is full disabled access along with air conditioning, natural daylight and WiFi available in all room options.
The Bobby Moore Room is Wembley’s grandest space and is split across two levels joined by two sweeping staircases and stunning pitch views from the mezzanine. On a match day this is the home of the Club Wembley seat holders and is the largest restaurant in Europe serving over 1,500 members. This venue works well for both daytime events using the mezzanine as an ideal break out space, or for luxurious Gala Dinners with drinks upstairs over-looking the pitch before descending the stairs to dinner. The maximum capacity for the room is 1050 theatre style.
The stadium’s largest capacity room on one level is the Great Hall, a vast space with high ceilings making it popular for large conferences, fashion shows or exhibitions. It seats up to 1800 theatre style with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views over Olympic Way.
The Atrium is a smaller footprint of the Great Hall, and provides another flexible function space able to accommodate a wide range of layouts, seating up to 700 delegates theatre style. There are also inter-connecting doors through to the adjoining Wembley Suite which provides additional space if required. .
The Wembley Suite is a prestigious option for an elegant lunch or dinner in a space which on match days houses the Royal Box and other VIP guests. There is also exclusive pitch side access out the Royal Box which is where trophies are presented on a cup final game and can be used in conjunction with the Atrium via the inter-connecting doors. The maximum capacity for the space is 300 theatre style.
A more intimate option for smaller numbers, the Pitch View has one of the best views of the Stadium Bowl and also has access out to the terraces which guests can enjoy during the event. A long room following the curve of the Stadium this space lends itself perfectly to dual configurations such a reception and dinner, or presentation and catering area all within one venue or simply a stunning reception space with spectacular views of the iconic stadium. It can facilitate up to 100 theatre style.
The Venue/Arc are two exciting split-level areas situated on either side of the stadium and curved with the building offering wide views across North London. They can offer the perfect support space to events in the larger venues with breakouts at either end of the long curved room, or as an extraordinary reception space for a networking event. It can fit 2 by 150 theatre style.
The 161 corporate boxes can be used for smaller breakout meetings and board meetings with breath-taking views of the Stadium. There are three sizes available seating 8, 12 or 20 in a boardroom style or we can seat up to 30 theatre style in one of the 20 seater boxes. They also come equipped with their own private bathroom facilities and flat screen TV which can be used to connect equipment for presentations.
There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
The Hilton Canary Wharf
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
The Hilton Canary Wharf
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
I really enjoyed visiting these two hotels, which are contemporary in style as both of them were opened about nine years ago. They have a good feeling and have undergone refurbishment, so are smart and clean. Both hotels are great options for conferences and meetings in London and have capacity for up to 400 attendees. The business lounges have tea and coffee available throughout the day. Also, both have good transport links as well as friendly and helpful staff.
The Hilton Canary Wharf
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
I really enjoyed visiting these two hotels, which are contemporary in style as both of them were opened about nine years ago. They have a good feeling and have undergone refurbishment, so are smart and clean. Both hotels are great options for conferences and meetings in London and have capacity for up to 400 attendees. The business lounges have tea and coffee available throughout the day. Also, both have good transport links as well as friendly and helpful staff.
The Hilton Canary Wharf
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
Site visits to Hilton Canary Wharf and Hilton Tower Bridge
I really enjoyed visiting these two hotels, which are contemporary in style as both of them were opened about nine years ago. They have a good feeling and have undergone refurbishment, so are smart and clean. Both hotels are great options for conferences and meetings in London and have capacity for up to 400 attendees. The business lounges have tea and coffee available throughout the day. Also, both have good transport links as well as friendly and helpful staff.
The Hilton Canary Wharf
This hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Canary Wharf tube station (very quick on the Jubilee Line from mainline London stations) and has eight flexible meeting rooms on the 1st floor. All the small meeting rooms have natural daylight and the largest room has its own foyer area with natural daylight although the room is in the centre of the building. All the meeting rooms were refurbished in February 2015 and to encourage creativity there is a relaxed break out area with bean bags and seating pods. The bedrooms in this hotel were impressively large and very comfortable. I will remember the lunch for a very long time, as the beef casserole was outstanding.
The Hilton Tower Bridge
Situated close to the River Thames, and very close to London Bridge station, the Hilton London Tower Bridge has 245 bedrooms. There are 12 flexible meeting rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. In addition there are two unusual areas which can be used exclusively for groups: the roof terrace with views of the Shard and there is a semi-private bar or dining area, the Snug, which is located off the main bar. I was here in the early evening and both the hotel and the surrounding area were lively and Jamie’s Italian restaurant which is part of the hotel was busy with both residential guests and non-residents. Jamie’s can also be booked for groups.
