Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - City Centre

The free breakfast was a highlight. It was a classic hotel spread, all hot and fresh, with plenty of coffee, juice and milk. Staff kept everything replenished and cleared plates and tables quickly, so there was always a clean place to sit. The location works well for an overnight stay, about a ten-minute walk from the city centre and New Street station. Check-in was quick and my room was ready straight away. The room was basic but clean and had what I needed. The lifts were a bit scary, clunky and noisy, especially from the 12th floor. Some details were frustrating. All the light switches worked backwards, and one bedside light was taped to its fitting. I had to push it hard to turn it off, nearly trapping my finger. The air-conditioning panel’s green button glowed over the bed at night. The doors were heavy and slammed hard, and the bathroom plumbing and ventilation were noisy. Luckily, I had earplugs and wasn’t woken by them. I’d stay again for an affordable overnight stop near the centre.

The room was clean, and breakfast had lots of choices, including gluten-free options. Staff were so lovely and helpful, and even offered us the choice of a room nearer the ground floor or higher up. The hotel is close to the shopping centre and railway, which was handy. Definitely worth the price, I’d recommend staying here.

The bar drinks were great, and the hotel is conveniently close to shopping, food and drinks, as well as an easy walk from the train station. We had a perfect stay. Staff were attentive and took care of everything we needed. Tai at check-in, in the afternoon on 16 February, was especially lovely and welcoming. They arranged early check-in and even offered late check-out if we wanted it.

The shower was so roomy, which I really appreciated as a bigger person. The bathroom layout was good, the room was spacious and had everything needed, and the bed and pillows were super comfy. I was tempted to take the pillows home and pay the charge. They were extremely busy, so we had to queue a few times. Breakfast around half past eight was busy too, but easy to get around. There was fruit, yoghurt, cereal, pastries, cooked breakfast, toast and even a pancake maker. I didn’t try it, but it looked good. The only room downside was a stain on the wall by my side of the bed, like someone had thrown a drink at it. I know rooms turn around quickly, but maybe the walls need wiping down. Otherwise, staff were really helpful, and the fruit and herb flavoured water at the bar was a lovely touch. I’d definitely stay again.