Holiday Inn Cardiff - North M4 by IHG

Breakfast went down well with everyone, and there was a great selection. The modern reception area looked good too. The kids enjoyed the pool, though the changing rooms are very basic and could use some hooks in or near the showers. There were a few little room problems: just three towels for the four of us, a shower temperature knob that kept falling off even with barely a touch, and a clump of hair under one duvet, which was gross. The back of the car park could do with a clear-up as well. We arrived late, then found lots of screws in the back spaces the next morning. Luckily, none were in our tyres. Some end spaces couldn’t be used because of overgrown shrubs and lots of mud. It’s handy for a stopover. The busy road does make it a bit noisy, though you know that when you book.

The restaurant was the highlight for us: the food was excellent and good value, the Welsh lager on tap was great, and the staff were helpful and pleasant. The reception was bright, spacious, and modern too. We stayed last Friday during Stirm Eunice on our way to London, and getting there from the M4 was easy. Our room was spacious and the beds were comfortable, though being below ground level meant there wasn't much of a view. There was also an odd smell that eased somewhat after we opened the windows. The Health Centre was in poor condition generally, especially around the pool, where the smell was stronger.

The pool water was murky enough that I could barely make out the bottom, and I couldn't see someone at the other end of what looked like a 10m pool. The property feels a little old and could use updates and maintenance. Staff were very friendly and helpful, and the room was comfortable. The air conditioning made some noise, but it was bearable. Breakfast was standard, served hot and fresh, and cost £6 per person. EV charging is available on site.

We stayed three nights as a family. The kids' bed was great, and we especially loved the soft, cosy bed and pillows in our room. Everything was clean and well kept. The pool was smaller than we'd expected, and the room felt a bit too hot. Breakfast was okay, with standard English options, but there was no continental breakfast during our stay.