City Derry

The room, dinner and breakfast were a lovely surprise, and the little pool and steam room were good too. I had the best risotto I’ve ever tried, oddly enough, and we had a really nice night away. The staff gave us proper Derry customer service. The reception team were amazing at accommodating us, and the waitress and bar maid were top class. A special thank you to the receptionist who checked us in. I think her badge said Sarah-Anne, or something similar. She was warm, professional and genuinely lovely. I really appreciated it.

The hotel is modern and comfortable, with spacious, clean rooms and comfortable beds. Staff were friendly and helpful from check-in through the restaurant and bar. Breakfast had a good selection, and I especially liked the full Irish options. The fitness centre and pool are a nice extra after a day out. It’s a great base for exploring Derry/Londonderry. The hotel sits right by the River Foyle, with fantastic views, particularly from rooms overlooking the Peace Bridge and water. The historic city walls, Guildhall, shops, bars and restaurants are all a short walk away.

The room felt like stepping into a time warp. It badly needs updating: the furniture was sparse and very outdated, there were no plug points by the bedside cabinets, and I felt dirtier after showering. The toilet in the photo looked as if it had been designed for someone under 4 foot 3. We were apparently booked into a superior room, but it felt more like an inferior one. The first photo showed what was promised, and the later photos showed what we got. You can decide. We weren’t told about the underground parking, though we found it. There are lifts to reception and every floor, but it seemed like anybody could access them, which raised questions about residents’ security. The reception team could use some People Skills 101. The morning staff were amiable and smiling, and I didn’t see any flirting with residents then. We booked through hotels .com and only found out after booking that renovation work was underway. Surely that should be mentioned beforehand so people can make an informed choice. There was no useful information in the room about Derry City or the hotel, apart from the room service menu. Apparently guests can use a leisure centre, but that should be explained in the room or by reception. How has this place kept its four-star rating? How can the owners charge what they do when so much is lacking? They seem happy enough to take the money, though. I look forward to an answer.

Our executive room on the 7th floor was spotless, spacious and beautifully decorated, with stunning views of the River Foyle and Peace Bridge. Breakfast was delicious and had loads of choice, and the staff were very attentive. My sister and I had a perfect stay at the city hotel in Derry, from the warm welcome at reception to the friendly, helpful service throughout. This is one hotel I can’t wait to return to. Thank you to everyone.