City Hotel Derry

We had a really pleasant night away, with a lovely surprise in the room, dinner, and breakfast. The wee pool and steam room were good too. The risotto was the best I've ever had, oddly enough, but it's true! The staff were amazing, especially the reception girlies who accommodated us so well. The waitress and bar maid gave top class Derry customer service. And the receptionist who checked us in, I think her badge said Sarah-Anne or something similar, was an actual star. Her warm, professional, genuinely kind approach meant a lot. Thank you!

The City Hotel Derry is a modern, comfortable place with spacious, clean rooms and comfy beds. Staff were friendly and helpful, from check-in through to the restaurant and bar. Breakfast had a good selection, and I especially liked the full Irish options. The fitness centre and pool are a nice extra after a day out. It's perfectly placed on the banks of the River Foyle, with fantastic views, particularly from rooms facing the Peace Bridge and water. The historic city walls, Guildhall, shops, bars, and restaurants are all a short walk away, making it very convenient for exploring Derry/Londonderry.

We booked through hotels .com, then were told after booking that the hotel was undergoing renovation. Surely that should be mentioned first so people can make an informed choice. When we arrived, we found underground parking ourselves, with lifts to reception and every floor. Anybody could get to any room, which didn't feel secure for residents. Reception could use a couple of days of People Skills 101. The morning staff were friendly and smiling, though, and I didn't see anyone flirting with residents then. The first room photo showed what was promised, but the later photos showed what we got. The place felt stuck in a time warp and badly in need of joining the 21st century. Even adding plug points by the bedside cabinets would help. We were apparently booked into a superior room, but it felt inferior, with sparse, seriously outdated furniture. I've stayed in very few places where I felt dirtier coming out of the shower. And check the loo photo, it looked planned for nobody over 4 foot 3. There was no information in the room about what to do in Derry City or what the hotel offered. Apparently there's access to a leisure centre, but details in the room or from reception would have been helpful. The room service menu was the only information there. How has this place kept its four-star rating? How can the owners charge what they do when so much is lacking? They seem happy enough to take the money, though. I look forward to your answers!

Breakfast had loads to choose from, and the views of the River Foyle and Peace Bridge from our room were stunning. My sister and I stayed in a spotless, spacious executive room on the 7th floor. Everyone was friendly and attentive, from the warm reception welcome to the staff throughout. Everything felt just right. I can't wait to come back. Thanks to everyone.