Novotel Bristol Centre

The staff were professional and very helpful, and seemed embarrassed that they couldn’t offer a better experience. The location works well for Bristol centre, and the onsite parking was good and priced similarly to nearby city-centre car parks. The room itself was cold and worn, with an awkward layout. The TV was far from the bed and a lamp sat in front of it, though it hardly mattered since only two or three channels were available depending on the time of day. The decor and furniture also need an upgrade. We tried adjusting the faded heating panel, then reported the problem to reception. Maintenance reset it, but nothing improved, so we asked for a second duvet to stay warm. The shower had hot water for about five minutes, then it was gone. We stayed two nights in late November 2025, and it was ultimately disappointing. For a four-star hotel, it felt distinctly like a three-star stay. Novotel needs to invest in this hotel or sell it to someone who cares.

The reception team were great, and it was easy to check in early. The check-in and check-out times are both decent, and the communal areas were pleasant. We didn’t use the bar or eat there because of our schedule. The location is handy, about halfway between the city and the station, and it’s very dog friendly. The room was clean, if a little tired, with a comfortable bed, good WiFi, and a quiet night. I’ve only given it a nine because there was a strange smell in the room and an even stranger one in the wardrobe.

The rooms are a good size, and I liked having a carafe to fill from the water dispenser on the floor. The location is handy too, with the airport bus stopping nearby. But on our last day the shower pressure was poor and the water only lukewarm at first. It warmed up eventually, and I was told everyone must have been showering at the same time. That morning we also lost power to every socket. Nobody even apologised, and I had to dry my hair in the hallway. The hotel feels dated, mould is starting to show in the bathroom, and be warned, the music on Sunday morning is loud.

It was affordable and in an excellent location, though the hotel feels a little tired. The service varied and there was no recognition of status. The lady in the bar and the breakfast attendant were both great, though. The rooms were really cold, and the shower pressure wasn’t very good. For a one-night stay it was perfectly fine, and the omelette at breakfast was brilliant.