Novotel Coventry M6 J3

My stay itself was very good, even though I had to check out early and was charged for the full booking under the hotel’s policy. I was naturally disappointed, but the charge followed the booking conditions, and I want to be fair in my review. The breakfast was excellent, a proper British breakfast and the best I’ve had in the UK so far. My room, 365, was clean and comfortable. It was far from the main area but quiet, and the internet was fast and reliable for work. The gym is small but perfectly fine. Special thanks to Nagid at reception, who was professional, kind and very helpful. I’d definitely stay again.

The breakfast had plenty of choice and was pretty decent, and the hotel was cheap. But I wouldn’t recommend it if you need a proper night’s sleep. I stayed on a Saturday before a conference and needed to be up at 7 a.m. I’m usually not bothered by Saturday night noise, but I didn’t expect this at a motorway hotel. I got about four hours of sleep, waking nine times according to my Apple Watch. The beds were hard, and the lift sounded like it might break. My first room was grubby, with stains all over the carpet and pen marks on the curtains. I could hear a couple arguing in the adjoining room, then every voice, toilet flush and even the zip on their jeans. Their deodorant smell came under the door too. It made me uncomfortable knowing they could hear everything I did as well. Staff understood when I asked to move and found me a quieter room, which I appreciated. But it was still stained and dirty, with mould in the bathroom and dust all over the kettle. Sleep was no better there. The walls seemed paper thin, and all night I could hear footsteps, coughing, talking and people making noise outside. If you just need somewhere to rest for a couple of hours after a night out, it might do. For a good night’s sleep, I can’t recommend it.

What makes the place is the staff. From reception through to breakfast, everyone was friendly and helpful, giving the hotel a warm, down-to-earth feel. The rooms were clean, and there are useful facilities including a bar, gym, outdoor seating area with tables, and a kids’ area. It’s a handy stop not far from the M6, and we use it halfway between home and London. There’s plenty of secure parking, and it’s dog friendly. A short walk along the canal is good for stretching furry paws. Recommended.

My business partner and I meet at Novotel Coventry every week because it’s a convenient midway point. We’ve tried other nearby hotels and wanted somewhere quieter, with free parking and a decent breakfast. This place delivers that. Parking is easy, just remember to register your vehicle on arrival. Breakfast is consistently well presented, with a good selection for different tastes. The individual ginger shots are a nice touch, and the coffee, tea and juices are good quality. Emma supervises the breakfast area and is always there with a warm smile to help or take orders for items outside the buffet, such as poached eggs. The Wi-Fi lounge is calm, cosy and laid out well for small meetings or remote work, and the bar next door is handy for drinks during the day. I can highly recommend Novotel Coventry and its friendly team for a visit.