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Summary of reviewsLocated in the heart of Portsmouth’s vibrant Gunwharf Quays, the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG, is celebrated for its exceptional location. The hotel is ideally situated for those looking to explore Portsmouth’s shopping, dining and nightlife scenes with attractions like the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower and Portsmouth Harbour train and bus stations just a short walk away. Guests also appreciate the convenience of free or discounted parking, making it particularly appealing for those traveling by car.
The overall cleanliness and comfort of the rooms receive consistent praise. Visitors find the accommodations to be very clean and tidy with comfortable beds and modern amenities. Although some rooms are described as compact, they are generally suited for short stays. There are occasional maintenance issues and dated furnishings, but these do not significantly detract from the primary appeal of the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel garners mostly positive feedback with many guests enjoying the varied buffet selection of both hot and cold items. The inclusion of gluten-free and dairy-free options is particularly appreciated. However, during peak times, the breakfast area can become overcrowded and some guests note issues with food temperature and replenishment.
The hotel’s friendly, efficient and helpful staff are frequently highlighted in reviews, contributing significantly to the welcoming atmosphere. Specific team members receive mentions for their exceptional service, enhancing the overall guest experience.
For families, the hotel is well-regarded for its friendly environment and accommodating amenities, such as a kids' play corner and snack packs. Although family rooms are on the smaller side, they are typically sufficient for short stays.
Free Wi-Fi is generally rated positively with many guests finding it reliable and fast. The convenience of additional USB ports by the bed is also a noted advantage.
While the nearby nightlife contributes to a lively atmosphere, some guests report noise disturbances, particularly in rooms near bars or train lines. Despite this, the hotel's strategic location and overall positive amenities make it a favored choice for visitors to Portsmouth.
To summarize, the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays excels in location, cleanliness and service. Although there are areas for improvement in room maintenance and breakfast service, the overall experience is both comfortable and convenient, making it a valuable option for travelers seeking a welcoming stay in Portsmouth. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel provides family-friendly bedrooms and offers free Wi-Fi, Freeview TV with kids channels, and comfy sofa beds upon request. Kids can stay and eat free.
Dog Friendly Hotel
This Holiday Inn Express allows dogs and has designated dog-friendly areas, including dining spaces, so guests can enjoy meals without leaving their pets in the room. It is also located in Gunwharf Quays, offering convenient access to shops and attractions.
Business Hotel
This hotel is conveniently located near Gunwharf Quays, offering easy access to shopping and dining. It provides a comfortable stay with friendly service and complimentary breakfast.
3-Star Hotel
Located in Gunwharf Quays, this Holiday Inn Express provides modern accommodations and is known for its proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It offers a reliable and convenient experience.
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Room Types
Standard Double Room with Free Hot BreakfastA 26-inch flat-screen TV, private bathroom with power shower and tea/coffee making facilities are featured in this room.
Standard Room with Free Hot BreakfastA 26-inch flat-screen TV, private bathroom with power shower and tea/coffee making facilities are featured in this room.
Standard Double Room with Sofa Bed and Free Hot BreakfastOffering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The double room features carpeted floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a wardrobe. The unit offers 2 beds.
Standard Twin Room with Free Hot BreakfastOffering free toiletries, this twin room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The twin room has carpeted floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a wardrobe. The unit has 2 beds.
Standard Twin Room with View This air-conditioned twin room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 2 beds.
Standard Double Room with ViewThis air-conditioned double room is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit has 1 bed.
Double Room with Free Hot Breakfast - AccessibleThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.9
Good
Location
The guest reviews for Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG, highlight its exceptional location as its most significant asset. Positioned perfectly in the heart of Gunwharf Quays, the hotel offers unbeatable proximity to a plethora of shops, restaurants and bars, making it ideal for shopping enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The location is frequently praised as convenient for exploring Portsmouth with easy access to the Historic Dockyard, seafront and ferry terminals, including those leading to the Isle of Wight. Guests appreciate the short walking distances to major attractions such as the Spinnaker Tower and the Portsmouth Harbour train and bus stations. Furthermore, the convenience of free or discounted parking adds to the appeal, especially for those arriving by car. Clean rooms, friendly staff and inclusive breakfast further complement the hotel's strategic position, making it a preferred choice for both short visits and extended stays in the city.
Breakfast
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays offers a breakfast experience that has garnered mixed feedback from its guests, but generally leans towards the positive side. Most visitors highlight the variety and quality of the breakfast options with many praising the selection and freshness of the food available in the buffet setup. Guests appreciated the inclusion of both hot items like scrambled eggs, bacon and sausages, as well as cold selections such as cereals, pastries and fruits. Some found the availability of gluten-free and dairy-free options particularly accommodating.
The breakfast has been described as tasty with terms like delicious, brilliant and excellent frequently used. Many emphasized that the plentiful and varied breakfast selection exceeded expectations. The convenience of breakfast being included in the room rate was also noted positively by numerous guests.
However, a minority of reviews reflect dissatisfaction with certain aspects. Specific complaints include overcooked or cold food, limited replenishment of items and occasional chaotic scenes during peak times. Some guests mentioned issues with cutlery cleanliness and the layout being too cramped for comfort.
In general, while there are areas that could see improvement, such as keeping the breakfast items hot and ensuring sufficient seating, the majority of guest feedback points to a positive dining experience in the morning. The well-stocked, varied buffet and the convenience of an included breakfast contribute to an overall satisfying start to the day at this well-located hotel.
Rooms
The Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG, receives mixed reviews regarding its rooms, though cleanliness and comfort are consistently praised. Many guests find the rooms very clean with comfortable beds and good facilities for an overnight stay. The hotel's location is highly appreciated, being conveniently near shopping complexes and offering great views, particularly of the Spinnaker Tower.
Room sizes vary with some guests noting that the rooms can feel a bit small and basic and family rooms especially can be tight. Despite this, others find their rooms to be spacious and well-furnished. The hotel also offers modern, quiet rooms which are a good size for one night, although some rooms have decor that feels a bit dated or in need of upgrading. Functional aspects such as air conditioning and heating have occasional issues with some rooms being too warm or the systems not working properly.
Guests value the cleanliness of the rooms but have reported occasional maintenance issues such as stained carpets, smelly drains and worn-out furniture. Noise can also be a problem, particularly for rooms located near bars or the train line. Safety features like room card-operated lifts are a plus.
In summary, the rooms at this hotel offer a practical and comfortable stay with cleanliness at the forefront, though some areas could benefit from updates and repairs. The location and helpful staff make it an ideal choice for travelers looking for convenience and comfort.
Beds
Nestled in the heart of Portsmouth’s bustling Gunwharf Quays, the Holiday Inn Express offers a mixed experience when it comes to its beds. Many guests found the beds to be very comfortable with frequent mentions of super comfy beds that made for a restful night. Some guests appreciated the option to choose between soft and hard pillows, contributing to a pleasurable sleep experience. Cleanliness also remained top-notch with several reviews noting clean and comfortable beds as part of their stay.
Despite these positives, there are notable areas for improvement. Several guests felt the beds were too small with some suggesting the need for king-sized beds for better comfort. A number of travelers found the beds too soft, while others mentioned that the mattresses were worn out, often rolling to the middle and causing an uncomfortable sleep. Creaky and unstable beds on wheels also drew criticism with some guests noting the beds moved around too easily, disrupting their rest.
The hotel’s dated rooms and occasional lumpy pillows were areas where some guests felt a refresh was needed. In particular, the sofa beds received less favorable reviews, often being described as uncomfortable and not fit for purpose.
In summary, while the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays provides clean and comfortable beds for many, it appears that bed size, mattress conditions and stability are areas that could benefit from significant upgrades to enhance the overall guest experience.
Cleanliness
The Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG, receives consistent praise for its cleanliness. Guests frequently highlight the rooms as clean, tidy and comfortable. Many have described the accommodations as immaculately clean, including spotless bedrooms and satisfactorily cleaned facilities. Visitors also commend the hardworking housekeeping staff for maintaining high cleanliness standards and for being friendly and efficient.
However, some areas require attention. Public spaces such as the reception area and corridors have been criticized for their cleanliness with issues including unpleasant odors and stained carpets. Additionally, while many rooms are praised, a few guests have noted dated furnishings, minor mold issues and general shabbiness in certain areas. Specific concerns about cleanliness in bathrooms, such as mold in the shower and dirty drains, have been pointed out as well.
Despite these issues, the hotel's strengths lie in its overall clean atmosphere, friendly staff and convenient location, making it a reliable choice for travelers prioritizing cleanliness and comfort.
Staff
The guest reviews for the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays consistently praise the hotel staff for their exceptional friendliness, efficiency and helpfulness. Guests frequently highlight the warm and welcoming nature of the reception and front desk staff, noting their professionalism and quick responses to inquiries and issues. Several individual staff members, such as Daniel, Anne Marie, Charlee, Maria and Lynsey, received special mentions for going above and beyond to assist guests, making them feel particularly valued during their stay.
The positive experiences are not limited to the reception; housekeeping, bar staff and other service staff were also commended for their courteous and accommodating demeanor. Many guests emphasized how the staff were always ready to provide local knowledge, facilitate check-in and check-out processes smoothly and offer a friendly smile no matter the situation.
While a couple of reviews noted occasional issues with staff being overworked or lacking in friendliness during busy times, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The staff's ability to maintain a professional and courteous manner, even under pressure, left a lasting impression on most guests.
In conclusion, the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays boasts an impressive team of staff who contribute significantly to the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere and efficient service, creating an enjoyable experience for its guests.
Wi-Fi
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays offers free Wi-Fi, which is generally perceived positively by guests. Many found the internet to be fast, reliable and with decent connectivity. The addition of USB ports by the bed for charging devices was a welcome bonus. Although there were occasional mentions of slow or spotty connections, the majority of reviews highlight the Wi-Fi as functioning well with specific instances of excellent connectivity. Guests appreciated the free internet access as a valuable amenity, making their stays more convenient and comfortable.
Family
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG, receives considerable praise for its family-friendly environment and helpful service. The hotel offers a play corner for kids, ensuring little ones have a space to entertain themselves and the reception area even provides sweets and cookies, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Families find the hotel well-suited for family get-togethers and describe it as having a comfortable, family-feeling ambiance.
The location is ideal, especially for those visiting the Historic Dockyard or going on shopping trips at Gunwharf Quays. The hotel staff goes the extra mile, showing festive spirits during the Christmas season which delights both children and adults. Moreover, the provision of essentials like milk and sugar for the family trip demonstrates thoughtful service.
While the rooms are noted to be clean and comfortable, some reviews mention that they are quite compact, particularly for a family of four. However, the overall sentiment suggests that the rooms, despite their size, are sufficient for short stays and maintain a peaceful and restful environment. Families appreciate the quiet ambiance, even amidst occasional hallway noise from kids running along the corridors.
Additionally, wheelchair assistance at breakfast and takeaway snack packs for children highlight the hotel’s commitment to accommodating diverse family needs. Though some found the size of family rooms less than ideal, the hotel’s convenient location, family-friendly service and welcoming staff make it a great choice for a family break.
Nightlife
The Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays boasts an enviable location with ample nearby nightlife options. Situated in an area teeming with bars, restaurants and nightclubs, it is a prime spot for those wishing to explore Portsmouth's vibrant social scene. Guests appreciate the convenience of being close to many dining and entertainment choices, making it easy to enjoy a night out without venturing far from the hotel.
The hotel is also perfectly positioned for enjoying various sights and shopping opportunities in Gunwharf Quays, complemented by free parking—a notable advantage for visitors. While the bustling nightlife brings energy and excitement, it can also result in night noise, especially from neighboring clubs, casinos and late-night bars. This noise can be bothersome, particularly for rooms near the entrance or if loud music from nearby venues continues into the early hours.
Despite the occasional disturbances from the nightlife, the hotel's friendly, professional and welcoming staff receive high praise, contributing to a positive overall experience. The combination of a lively atmosphere and convenient accessibility makes this hotel an ideal choice for nightlife enthusiasts.
3 Star
Located in the heart of Portsmouth at Gunwharf Quays, Holiday Inn Express offers a welcoming and friendly environment for travelers. This stylish three-star hotel provides excellent value for money and meets the basic needs of its guests. The hotel is perfect for a budget stay with comfortable and standard rooms that are family-friendly. The beds are comfortable and despite the hotel's no-frills nature, the free breakfast is noted to be a good standard.
Guests have praised the location as ideal for an overnight stay with convenient access to nearby attractions. While some facilities are undergoing refurbishment, the hotel remains clean and adequate for a short visit. Issues like a slightly shabby interior and the need for some remodelling in the rooms were highlighted, but they did not seem to overshadow the hotel's positive attributes.
The hotel's value is consistently rated as great for its three-star status, despite occasional complaints about the price being high. The atmosphere is inviting and consistently described as welcoming, friendly and bright. Although there is only one elevator, which can be cumbersome, the overall service and amenities provided are deemed satisfactory for the price paid.
In summary, this mid-range, budget-friendly hotel serves its purpose well, offering a pleasant, clean and convenient stay with a welcoming ambiance, making it a decent option for those looking to explore Portsmouth without splurging on luxury accommodations.
Dog Friendly
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays is a highly welcoming and accommodating hotel for guests with dogs. The hotel is noted for its pet-friendly nature with dogs allowed not only in the rooms but also in the breakfast area and restaurant, allowing pet owners to enjoy meals with their furry companions. This convenience extends further with a lovely walking area designed for dogs, making it an ideal location for pets and their owners alike.
The hotel’s staff is frequently praised for their welcoming and helpful attitude, contributing to a comfortable stay for both human and canine guests. The hotel's cleanliness and the quality of the breakfast also receive positive mentions. The cancellation of pet fees is an appreciated bonus for dog owners, enhancing the hotel's reputation as an economical and pet-friendly choice.
Guests have highlighted the communal areas as accommodating to dogs, though there is a minor note that some visitors believe dogs should not be allowed in the restaurant space. Despite minor discomforts reported in the limited space of some rooms, the overall reception of Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays as a dog-friendly establishment is overwhelmingly positive, making it a recommended option for pet owners visiting the area.
No, Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG.
Yes, Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG.
No, Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays by IHG doesn't have a gym.