The Dolby Hotel

We keep coming back to this hidden gem. It’s on the waterfront rather than in the middle of town, but still within walking distance. The rooms are clean, as are the welcoming public areas, and the staff are lovely. The buffet breakfast is a wonderful new addition. I can’t see why it hasn’t been reclassified as a good three-star hotel. I understand the room sizes prevent a higher rating. The bathrooms are due for refurbishment as part of the ongoing improvements. Well done to independent Dolby for holding its own against the big boys around it.

The staff were incredible, and the free parking was a real bonus. The rooms are basic, but very clean and stocked with a good amount of tea and coffee. It was nice to be able to have a drink at the bar too, and the prices were reasonable. At the budget end of the market, Dolby was unbelievable value. I’ve already booked another stay.

We stayed for a week and would definitely come back. Everything was very clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The bathroom was on the small side, but spotless and perfectly adequate. Breakfast had a great selection, and the location was great too. It’s a 15-minute walk to the city centre, and the 500 bus stops at the Dolby and goes to the airport for £2.

We paid £87 for one night, which felt a bit above the odds, though the free parking was a bonus in the city centre. It’s a budget hotel that did the job for our gig at the M and S Bank Arena, and I wouldn’t want to stay longer than a night. The docks location is very convenient, with most places in walking distance. The staff were welcoming, and the basic room was clean. We had a kettle and cups, coffee sachets and milk, and the TV was easy to use. The beds were hard and uncomfortable, and the shower room was tiny. My partner is 6ft 2 and had to turn sideways to use the toilet. They provide complimentary toiletries, though we brought our own. We didn’t eat at the restaurant, but the bar prices were reasonable for a hotel. Our room faced the main road, but noise didn’t bother us. The hotel does provide earplugs if you want them.