Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel

Breakfast was brilliant, but the two-course evening meal on the half-board plan was poor value for money. The location and rooms are great, though getting to a second-floor room is a faff, with different lifts and stairs across the building's levels. I also wish there were EV charging points in the parking garage. Even a 3 or 7 kW charger would take some stress out of the onward journey.

The room was clean and comfortable, but compact, very dark and badly lit, with high ceilings. I couldn't read the coffee labels to tell decaf from proper coffee. There's no air conditioning, though a fan had been left in the single wardrobe. I couldn't open the window because the church bells chimed every 15 minutes. The room and hotel decor feel tired, and the carpets and paintwork badly need attention. The large bar was very poorly stocked, with hardly any bar snacks. The website advertises a restaurant, but apparently it's only open when tour groups are in. Parking spaces are too small, and the corridor from the car park to reception feels unwelcoming, like a boiler room with a couple of plants. I wouldn't consider this a 4 star hotel, more like 2 to 3 stars at best.

The rooms were okay, though small, and the old, dirty windows were so hard to see through. The hotel's location was excellent, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. Breakfast was great too, and the staff there were excellent. The manager was chatty and helpful.

My room was clean, well maintained and just right for my stay at the Darlington Mercure Hotel. Check-in was easy and the welcome was warm. Breakfast was fresh with plenty of choice, and the staff were lovely and engaging. Dinner was delicious and cooked perfectly. We arrived as a group at the last minute and overwhelmed the team, but they looked after us well and kept us updated on kitchen timings. The maid kept my room spotless and well serviced every day. Checkout was easy with the keycard deposit box. A really pleasant stay, with amazing staff throughout. A big well done to them!