Cardiff Sandringham Hotel

The staff were very polite and helpful, and the receptionist deserves a special mention. She was genuinely so sweet and went out of her way to help with everything, easily the best part of my stay. Hotel Sandringham was clean and well maintained, and for the price it was a great experience. Right in the city centre, it made everything convenient and walkable. A solid budget-friendly option if you want cleanliness, a good location and helpful service.

There are no lifts, and I had to drag my suitcase up to my third-floor room. You have to climb stairs even to reach reception, so this could be difficult if you're not strong. I wouldn't recommend the hotel to anyone using a walker or wheelchair. The two women working reception during my stay were both kind, funny, polite and helpful. The woman who checked me out even helped carry my suitcase, which I really appreciated as a petite woman, 5'3"/160 cm. The hotel is in a well-maintained white building, and the location is excellent. It's near the train station, with several buses stopping nearby. Indoor markets and St David's Dewi Sant are within walking distance, and Cardiff castle is at the other end of the street. My room was well maintained and very clean when I arrived, and the maids cleaned it daily. It had two tiny bathrooms, but I didn't mind having the toilet and shower in separate rooms. The Wi-Fi was slow and sometimes dropped out. Those narrow stairs and the Wi-Fi are why I'm giving four stars. Marie, the little Norwegian traveler.

The rooms are the main drawback, especially if you have mobility or back problems. There are stairs throughout, and the rooms haven't been updated in a long time. Still, it's well placed for Principality Stadium events and shopping in the centre, and the staff give a lovely warm welcome. They're amazing and helpful, with a nice atmosphere. I'd recommend it for a night or if you'll be out and about most of the time.

Everything is close by, including cafes and cosy bars. Cardiff Market is just a one-minute walk, with food from lots of cuisines, and Sainsbury’s is also one minute away. Cardiff museum is three minutes on foot, and Cardiff castle is six minutes away. Such a great base for exploring the town centre. I'll definitely come back.