The Royal Hotel
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Summary of reviewsThe Royal Hotel in Oban is celebrated primarily for its prime and historic location. Centrally situated, it offers easy access to a variety of amenities, transportation hubs and local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the town. This perfect setting, combined with beautiful views and the hotel's historic building, significantly enhances the guest experience.
The breakfast service at The Royal Hotel generally receives high praise. Guests commend the extensive buffet with both hot and cold options, especially enjoying freshly cooked dishes and the friendly, efficient service of the breakfast staff. There were minor suggestions for improvement related to non-cooked options and extending the breakfast service hours. Despite these, the breakfast contributes positively to the guest experience.
Dining experiences at the hotel are largely positive with many reviews highlighting the excellent food quality and value. Guests appreciate the variety and taste of meals with particular mention of careful attention to dietary needs and the welcoming atmosphere created by the friendly and attentive staff. Though there were occasional remarks on limited menu options, most guests enjoyed the dining experience, especially given the reasonable pricing.
Regarding accommodations, the rooms at The Royal Hotel are described as clean, comfortable and often offering beautiful sea views. The large, family-friendly rooms stand out with travelers appreciating the cozy and tidy environment. However, there is a noted need for refurbishments as some areas show signs of wear with outdated decor and occasional maintenance issues.
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews. While many guests praise the tidiness and modern bathrooms, some pointed out areas needing improvement, like visible wear and tear and incomplete cleaning in specific spots. Despite these concerns, the friendly and helpful staff often alleviates the issues, maintaining a positive atmosphere.
The hotel staff are consistently praised for their welcoming and professional demeanor. From the reception to the night staff and breakfast team, the personnel's dedication and friendly service significantly enhance the guest experience, creating a warm and inviting environment.
WiFi connectivity presents a mixed experience with some guests enjoying reliable access while others face weak or inconsistent service. This highlights an area for potential improvement.
For families, the hotel offers spacious and comfortable large rooms, friendly staff and a convenient location, though some minor issues such as room temperature and stale smells were noted.
Bed comfort also produced mixed feedback. Many guests appreciated comfortable and spacious beds with good-quality bedding, while others found some mattresses uncomfortable or beds too small.
As a three-star establishment, The Royal Hotel meets basic expectations with clean and comfy rooms but shows a need for significant updates and modernizations to better align with the price point and guest expectations.
Finally, the hotel's historic Victorian charm is a notable feature appreciated by many guests. The beautiful building and its nostalgic ambiance attract those who enjoy classic elegance, though a need for refurbishment to match modern standards is clear.
Overall, The Royal Hotel in Oban offers a convenient, charming stay with excellent food, friendly staff and comfortable accommodations, albeit with some areas in need of a refresh to fully capitalize on its potential.
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The breakfast service at The Royal Hotel generally receives high praise. Guests commend the extensive buffet with both hot and cold options, especially enjoying freshly cooked dishes and the friendly, efficient service of the breakfast staff. There were minor suggestions for improvement related to non-cooked options and extending the breakfast service hours. Despite these, the breakfast contributes positively to the guest experience.
Dining experiences at the hotel are largely positive with many reviews highlighting the excellent food quality and value. Guests appreciate the variety and taste of meals with particular mention of careful attention to dietary needs and the welcoming atmosphere created by the friendly and attentive staff. Though there were occasional remarks on limited menu options, most guests enjoyed the dining experience, especially given the reasonable pricing.
Regarding accommodations, the rooms at The Royal Hotel are described as clean, comfortable and often offering beautiful sea views. The large, family-friendly rooms stand out with travelers appreciating the cozy and tidy environment. However, there is a noted need for refurbishments as some areas show signs of wear with outdated decor and occasional maintenance issues.
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews. While many guests praise the tidiness and modern bathrooms, some pointed out areas needing improvement, like visible wear and tear and incomplete cleaning in specific spots. Despite these concerns, the friendly and helpful staff often alleviates the issues, maintaining a positive atmosphere.
The hotel staff are consistently praised for their welcoming and professional demeanor. From the reception to the night staff and breakfast team, the personnel's dedication and friendly service significantly enhance the guest experience, creating a warm and inviting environment.
WiFi connectivity presents a mixed experience with some guests enjoying reliable access while others face weak or inconsistent service. This highlights an area for potential improvement.
For families, the hotel offers spacious and comfortable large rooms, friendly staff and a convenient location, though some minor issues such as room temperature and stale smells were noted.
Bed comfort also produced mixed feedback. Many guests appreciated comfortable and spacious beds with good-quality bedding, while others found some mattresses uncomfortable or beds too small.
As a three-star establishment, The Royal Hotel meets basic expectations with clean and comfy rooms but shows a need for significant updates and modernizations to better align with the price point and guest expectations.
Finally, the hotel's historic Victorian charm is a notable feature appreciated by many guests. The beautiful building and its nostalgic ambiance attract those who enjoy classic elegance, though a need for refurbishment to match modern standards is clear.
Overall, The Royal Hotel in Oban offers a convenient, charming stay with excellent food, friendly staff and comfortable accommodations, albeit with some areas in need of a refresh to fully capitalize on its potential.
Hotel near Golf Courses
This hotel is 1.4 km from Glencruitten Golf Club, offering good proximity to the course.
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel offers triple and family rooms that can accommodate 3, 4, or 5 adults/children. All family rooms have en-suite facilities and tea/coffee making facilities.
Hotel with Free Wi-Fi
This central hotel ensures free Wi-Fi is available in all bedrooms. It is recognized for its helpful staff and comfortable accommodations, providing a convenient base in Oban.
3-Star Hotel
The Royal Hotel is located in the center of Oban, close to the harbor and ferry terminal. Built in 1895, this 3-star hotel offers traditional Scottish hospitality in modern surroundings.
Historic Hotel
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Guest Reviews
The Royal Hotel in Oban is celebrated for its prime location, which serves as a significant highlight among guests. Centrally situated, it offers effortless access to the town's key amenities, including the ferry terminal, train and bus stations, making it an ideal base for exploring Oban and the surrounding areas. Guests appreciate its proximity to shops, restaurants, the harbour and various public transport options.
The hotel's position is described as perfect for visitors needing quick access to transportation hubs like the ferry to Mull, trains from Glasgow and buses. The convenience of being within walking distance of Oban's main attractions and amenities resonates strongly with guests, who also mention its suitability for both leisurely walks around town and more extended tours.
Beyond its location, the Royal Hotel's historic building in the heart of Oban adds to its charm, offering beautiful views, especially from certain rooms. The excellent central position ensures everything guests need is just a few steps away, enhancing the experience of staying in this vibrant coastal town. For those planning visits focused on ease of transit and access to local points of interest, The Royal Hotel stands out as a highly convenient and appealing choice.
The breakfast experience at The Royal Hotel garners predominantly positive feedback from guests, frequently described as excellent, very good or superb. Many guests appreciated the extensive and varied selection at the buffet, which includes both hot and cold options with freshly cooked dishes being a highlight. Specific mentions of a full Scottish breakfast and ample continental choices like any preparation of eggs, adding to the appeal.
Some guests noted the friendliness and efficiency of the breakfast staff, appreciating the clean and well-organized breakfast area, despite a few remarks about its visual attractiveness. The quality and freshness of the food, particularly the hot items, received numerous compliments. The coffee machine also earned positive mentions.
However, there were recurring suggestions for improvement. A few guests wished for a longer breakfast service, especially on weekends and expressed disappointment over the limited variety of non-cooked options like fresh fruit or yoghurt. A minority found the breakfast unappetizing, uninspired or insufficiently imaginative. Others felt it was overpriced for what was offered or noted that certain items ran out quickly, indicating service efficiency could be enhanced.
Overall, while there is room for minor improvements, the hotel's breakfast service successfully meets and often exceeds guest expectations, contributing to a pleasant stay at The Royal Hotel.
Dining at The Royal Hotel is largely praised for its quality and value. Guests frequently highlight the excellent food, often describing it as delicious and of great standard. From lovely meals at the bar to well-presented evening dinners, the menu seems to cater to various tastes with an impressive array of choices. The bar and lounge areas offer good, wholesome food with many mentioning that both breakfast and evening meals consistently delight. Special attention is given to dietary needs, garnering positive impressions for the care taken with allergies and intolerances.
The restaurant is also noted for being very good, offering dishes that are not only enjoyable but also reasonably priced, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. While a few guests found the menu options limited at times or experienced an off night, the majority still appreciated the quality and taste of the food served. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the dining atmosphere, solidifying The Royal Hotel's reputation for great food and commendable service. The value for money, especially on specific meal deals, also stands out, making dining here a worthwhile part of the stay.
Located right in the heart of Oban, The Royal Hotel boasts a convenient central location and friendly, helpful staff. The rooms, while varied in size and decor, often provide a comfortable and clean stay. Many visitors enjoyed rooms that were quiet, warm and equipped with necessary amenities such as tea and coffee making facilities, TVs and well-furnished interiors. The views from some rooms, especially those facing the sea, were particularly appreciated.
Breakfast at the hotel consistently received high marks with guests describing it as excellent and amazing. The spacious family rooms and large superior rooms also stood out for their cleanliness and well-maintained condition. Cozy, comfortable and tidy are terms frequently mentioned by guests reflecting their satisfaction.
However, several reviews highlighted that some rooms appear outdated with tired decor, creaky floorboards and occasional maintenance issues such as peeling wallpaper or stained carpets. The size of rooms was a common critique with many describing them as small, cramped or compact and some guests noted that certain rooms felt stuffy or overly warm. Additionally, noise and ventilation problems were noted with some rooms suffering from poor air circulation and windows that barely opened.
Despite these drawbacks, the general sentiment is that The Royal Hotel offers a practical and pleasant stay, especially for those prioritizing location and basic comfort over modern decor and spaciousness.
The beds at The Royal Hotel have received mixed feedback from guests. On the positive side, many guests appreciated the comfort and quality of the beds, noting that they were very comfortable, clean and often accompanied by good-quality bedding. Specific praise was given to the size of the beds with some mentioning they were massive and spacious. Guests frequently described the beds as comfy and conducive to a good night's sleep and some even highlighted the pillows as being particularly comfortable.
However, some reviews pointed out issues with the beds. A number of guests found the beds to be uncomfortable, mentioning that mattresses were either too soft, too hard or worn out. Complaints were made about beds being narrow, too small or made from single beds pushed together, which sometimes resulted in discomfort or poor sleep. There were also mentions of squeaky beds, old sheets and thin blankets contributing to a less-than-ideal sleeping experience.
In summary, while many guests enjoyed a comfortable stay with good bedding, others encountered issues that detracted from their comfort, indicating the need for some updates and improvements in the bedding and mattresses.
The Royal Hotel received mixed feedback regarding its cleanliness. Many guests praised the rooms, describing them as very clean, comfortable and even spotless. Guests frequently highlighted the clean and modern bathrooms and the overall tidy condition of the hotel. The breakfast also garnered positive remarks.
However, several reviews pointed out areas that needed improvement. Comments included visible wear and tear on walls, run-down furnishings, dirty windows and mould on tiles. Some guests specifically mentioned grime and dust on surfaces, unclean shower heads and dirty tiles. There were also mentions of noise from housekeeping early in the morning.
While some guests appreciated the cleanliness and fresh atmosphere, others noted that the hotel appeared tired and in need of refurbishment. Instances of poor room servicing, such as incomplete cleaning, dusty lamps and filthy shower areas, were mentioned. Despite these criticisms, several reviews still pointed out that the hotel’s staff were friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the overall experience.
The Royal Hotel boasts an exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff, as evidenced by numerous guest reviews. Visitors consistently praise the reception team and the entire hotel staff for being accommodating, polite and professional. The night staff and reception personnel were particularly highlighted for their friendliness and efficiency. Several guests mentioned individual encounters where staff members were notably kind, helpful and attentive.
Despite a few isolated comments about overworked staff and occasional lapses in COVID-19 protocol adherence, the overwhelming majority of feedback celebrates the staff's dedication and hard work under challenging conditions. The breakfast team's excellent service and the positive, hospitable attitude of all staff members make the hotel stay pleasant and comfortable for guests.
Overall, The Royal Hotel's staff contributes significantly to a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant experience for travelers.
The Royal Hotel offers a mixed experience when it comes to WiFi. While some guests commend the excellent and good WiFi service, others have encountered various issues, including weak connections, spotty access and faulty service. The internet worked well in certain rooms, providing reliable connectivity, but other guests reported no WiFi or poor reception despite advertisements claiming its availability. Basic internet access is provided, but it seems that the consistency and reliability of the WiFi can vary significantly across different areas of the hotel.
The Royal Hotel in Oban offers a mix of experiences for families with various aspects highlighted in guest reviews. Positive feedback centers around the hotel's welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff who are accommodating to both kids and pets. Families found the large family rooms to be both comfortable and spacious, making them suitable for group stays. Additionally, the hotel's central location in Oban adds convenience for travelers.
However, there were mentions of some drawbacks, including the family rooms being too hot, partly due to the towel rail being left on. Some guests also commented on a stale smell in their rooms and an overall family-friendly feel that could be improved. Despite these issues, the collective sentiment appreciates the accommodating nature and the sizable rooms offered by The Royal Hotel.
The Royal Hotel, a midrange and historic establishment, is located in a great spot with a perfect harbor setting. It offers clean and comfy rooms that meet three-star standards. However, the decor of the hotel appears very dated and both the rooms and facilities are perceived as being in dire need of refurbishment and an overall facelift. The hotel exudes a tired and aged ambiance with worn-out carpets and a dated interior. Despite its potential and historic charm, the hotel's condition does not align with the high price point expected for such accommodations. Some guests also pointed out issues like the non-functional shower and no covers on duvets, indicating a need for better maintenance and attention to detail. While it fulfills the basic expectations for a three-star hotel, the general consensus leans towards a significant need for updates to enhance the guest experience and provide better value for money.
Nestled in a picturesque location, The Royal Hotel stands as a quintessential large Victorian hotel, exuding classic seaside charm. This beautiful building is rich in history with its stunning exterior and vintage aesthetic serving as a nostalgic nod to good old British architecture. The building's historic features and character are evident, making it a delightful escape for those who appreciate the elegance of a bygone era.
The hotel’s Victorian character and nostalgic ambiance are highlighted by many, who find a unique charm in its older, classic features. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, offering a fun experience rooted in the heritage and aesthetics of the past.
However, it's clear that this historic gem could benefit from some refurbishment to rejuvenate its grandeur. While the longstanding history adds to its appeal, the need for modern updates is apparent as the hotel shows signs of being a bit tired and run down. Despite this, The Royal Hotel remains a testament to classic Victorian elegance with its beautiful, character-filled structure capturing the hearts of its guests.
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Location
The hotel's position is described as perfect for visitors needing quick access to transportation hubs like the ferry to Mull, trains from Glasgow and buses. The convenience of being within walking distance of Oban's main attractions and amenities resonates strongly with guests, who also mention its suitability for both leisurely walks around town and more extended tours.
Beyond its location, the Royal Hotel's historic building in the heart of Oban adds to its charm, offering beautiful views, especially from certain rooms. The excellent central position ensures everything guests need is just a few steps away, enhancing the experience of staying in this vibrant coastal town. For those planning visits focused on ease of transit and access to local points of interest, The Royal Hotel stands out as a highly convenient and appealing choice.
Breakfast
Some guests noted the friendliness and efficiency of the breakfast staff, appreciating the clean and well-organized breakfast area, despite a few remarks about its visual attractiveness. The quality and freshness of the food, particularly the hot items, received numerous compliments. The coffee machine also earned positive mentions.
However, there were recurring suggestions for improvement. A few guests wished for a longer breakfast service, especially on weekends and expressed disappointment over the limited variety of non-cooked options like fresh fruit or yoghurt. A minority found the breakfast unappetizing, uninspired or insufficiently imaginative. Others felt it was overpriced for what was offered or noted that certain items ran out quickly, indicating service efficiency could be enhanced.
Overall, while there is room for minor improvements, the hotel's breakfast service successfully meets and often exceeds guest expectations, contributing to a pleasant stay at The Royal Hotel.
Dinner
The restaurant is also noted for being very good, offering dishes that are not only enjoyable but also reasonably priced, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. While a few guests found the menu options limited at times or experienced an off night, the majority still appreciated the quality and taste of the food served. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the dining atmosphere, solidifying The Royal Hotel's reputation for great food and commendable service. The value for money, especially on specific meal deals, also stands out, making dining here a worthwhile part of the stay.
Rooms
Breakfast at the hotel consistently received high marks with guests describing it as excellent and amazing. The spacious family rooms and large superior rooms also stood out for their cleanliness and well-maintained condition. Cozy, comfortable and tidy are terms frequently mentioned by guests reflecting their satisfaction.
However, several reviews highlighted that some rooms appear outdated with tired decor, creaky floorboards and occasional maintenance issues such as peeling wallpaper or stained carpets. The size of rooms was a common critique with many describing them as small, cramped or compact and some guests noted that certain rooms felt stuffy or overly warm. Additionally, noise and ventilation problems were noted with some rooms suffering from poor air circulation and windows that barely opened.
Despite these drawbacks, the general sentiment is that The Royal Hotel offers a practical and pleasant stay, especially for those prioritizing location and basic comfort over modern decor and spaciousness.
Beds
However, some reviews pointed out issues with the beds. A number of guests found the beds to be uncomfortable, mentioning that mattresses were either too soft, too hard or worn out. Complaints were made about beds being narrow, too small or made from single beds pushed together, which sometimes resulted in discomfort or poor sleep. There were also mentions of squeaky beds, old sheets and thin blankets contributing to a less-than-ideal sleeping experience.
In summary, while many guests enjoyed a comfortable stay with good bedding, others encountered issues that detracted from their comfort, indicating the need for some updates and improvements in the bedding and mattresses.
Cleanliness
However, several reviews pointed out areas that needed improvement. Comments included visible wear and tear on walls, run-down furnishings, dirty windows and mould on tiles. Some guests specifically mentioned grime and dust on surfaces, unclean shower heads and dirty tiles. There were also mentions of noise from housekeeping early in the morning.
While some guests appreciated the cleanliness and fresh atmosphere, others noted that the hotel appeared tired and in need of refurbishment. Instances of poor room servicing, such as incomplete cleaning, dusty lamps and filthy shower areas, were mentioned. Despite these criticisms, several reviews still pointed out that the hotel’s staff were friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the overall experience.
Staff
Despite a few isolated comments about overworked staff and occasional lapses in COVID-19 protocol adherence, the overwhelming majority of feedback celebrates the staff's dedication and hard work under challenging conditions. The breakfast team's excellent service and the positive, hospitable attitude of all staff members make the hotel stay pleasant and comfortable for guests.
Overall, The Royal Hotel's staff contributes significantly to a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant experience for travelers.
Wi-Fi
Family
However, there were mentions of some drawbacks, including the family rooms being too hot, partly due to the towel rail being left on. Some guests also commented on a stale smell in their rooms and an overall family-friendly feel that could be improved. Despite these issues, the collective sentiment appreciates the accommodating nature and the sizable rooms offered by The Royal Hotel.
3 Star
Historic
The hotel’s Victorian character and nostalgic ambiance are highlighted by many, who find a unique charm in its older, classic features. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, offering a fun experience rooted in the heritage and aesthetics of the past.
However, it's clear that this historic gem could benefit from some refurbishment to rejuvenate its grandeur. While the longstanding history adds to its appeal, the need for modern updates is apparent as the hotel shows signs of being a bit tired and run down. Despite this, The Royal Hotel remains a testament to classic Victorian elegance with its beautiful, character-filled structure capturing the hearts of its guests.
No, The Royal Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Royal Hotel.
No, The Royal Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Royal Hotel.
No, The Royal Hotel doesn't have a gym.
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