Holiday Inn Express Bradford City Centre

The breakfast was included and delicious, and we had a really good experience overall. Our room on the fourth floor was quiet, with a lovely view over much of Bradford. It was spacious and clean, the beds were comfortable, and the bathroom was spotless. The noisy tap splashed water whenever it was turned on, though. The room was designed for guests with needs and was very nice. The staff were super, efficient, understanding, and helpful. One member was especially caring. My husband needed a taxi directly to BRI. It was a little late, but got him there on time, and when I explained where he’d gone, she brought me a goodie bag for his return. That meant a lot on a stressful occasion. Thanks so much. We’d stay here or at another of their hotels again. Margaret from York

We were in Bradford as a couple for one night to see a gig at Bradford Live, about a 10 minute walk away. The hotel is right across from Bradford Interchange rail station, and Bradford Forster Square is about a 15 minute walk. There’s plenty of inexpensive parking next door in the multi-storey at the Bradford Leisure Exchange complex, where the hotel is. Check-in was quick and the staff were friendly throughout. Our room was basic but clean and did what we needed, and we slept well despite being in the city centre. WiFi was free and fast. The hot breakfast buffet was included and set us up well. The sausages and bacon were cooked properly, the croissants fresh and flaky, and there was even a pot of Marmite. Loved that. Handy central location, dependable and good value. We’ll pick it again when we’re next in Bradford.

There’s plenty of parking, but it’s run by a third party and costs £1.50 per day per exit. If you leave through the barriers, the charge expires and you pay again. For multiple exits or a longer stay, the £10 weekly multi-exit option seemed better value, though it’s only sold at the parking office by the entrance. This is handy for families, with easy access to the city and the main train station right outside. The rooms are decent but need an upgrade: only two power sockets, no USB ports, and the beds and pillows weren’t the most comfortable. Most rooms adjoin another room for larger families, so noise can be much worse if you’re placed in one. Breakfast wasn’t great at first, though staff said it was a supplier issue and it did improve by the last day. It also seemed different people prepared the food, and the attention to detail showed in the results. Customer service felt like a lottery. At check-in, a young woman shouted me down when I tried to ask questions. I reported it, but don’t know her name. All in all, not a completely bad HIEXP, but not the best either. I’ll stay again, keeping the shortcomings in mind.

Once you find the entrance, the stay is good value, with a good location. Head toward the cinema, as the hotel entrance is tucked beside it. We got into our clean room early, and the arrival went smoothly. Staff were generally very helpful, and breakfast was impressive, with staff checking that all the items were available. Google Maps didn’t give us the best route.