Travelodge Birmingham Central Bull Ring

We had a great room for the price, with everything we needed. The unlimited breakfast had a good range, from a full English to cereal and fruit, plus unlimited tea and coffee. I was disappointed that they only serve scrambled eggs, and the orange juice glasses were so tiny I needed about 9 refills. The breakfast staff sometimes seemed more interested in chatting than clearing tables. There were a couple of other frustrations. Reception took far too long to check us in, and on Sunday morning we were woken by the refuse collection. Our room was only 2 floors up, and we could smell the rubbish. The website changed quickly before I could choose a room, so I’d suggest picking a higher floor if you’re there on a Sunday. When we checked out, nobody was at reception and there was just a wooden box for the keys. I didn’t feel comfortable leaving mine there in case someone took it and I was blamed. I think staff should be there at checkout. The room itself was great, but these are things that need improving.

I stay at Travelodge most months and spend a lot of money there, so I shouldn’t have to argue to get basic things. Free wifi was apparently only included for bookings made after 01/02/26. When I pointed out that it didn’t say I couldn’t have it, staff replied, “it doesn't say you can either”. I eventually got access “as a favour”. I’ve usually picked up coffee pods at reception, but now they’re only available in the mornings. I was told to put out the sign for coffee, towels and bins, even though I only needed pods and thought it would be easier for me to collect them. It took 1.25 hours for them to bring some because I couldn’t collect them myself.

Breakfast was the bright spot. The choice of food and drinks was good, everything was fresh and hot, and they kept replenishing it through a busy morning. The staff did a great job. We’d booked a super room, expecting more. It came with a coffee machine and iron, but no fridge, and the ironing board was in poor condition. The room seemed small and like an old standard room, with little sign of a recent update. I’ve stayed at lots of Travelodges and expected more. We also weren’t given premium WiFi, which the booking information said was included. We were then told it only applied to bookings from 8th Jan, though that wasn’t mentioned online.

This is our regular choice when we’re in Birmingham. It’s central and still quiet, with excellent service and food that’s good value in a modern dining area. The rooms are a bit smaller than at other travelodges, and there’s no ar con, so I imagine it gets very hot in summer.