Travelodge Southampton Central

With the window open, the room was incredibly noisy, so keep it shut. Otherwise, it was what I expected from a Travelodge, and the price and location were good. The gentleman at reception was helpful and informative. I didn’t try the food, but I’d absolutely recommend this hotel to anyone staying in Southampton.

The central location, clean small room with heating and AC, and good price were the positives. That’s unfortunately all I can say in its favour. After a five-hour drive, I arrived at 2:30pm and was told I couldn’t access my room until exactly 3. You can pay £15 to check in from midday. The parking below the hotel costs £6 for 24 hours, but you need the Horizon app to get that rate, and there’s no signal down there. Wi-Fi isn’t free either, it’s £3.50 for 24 hours. The parking spaces are so tight that I had to unload my things before parking. To get out of my car, I had to block the driver next to me from getting into theirs. There was nobody at reception when I arrived and no way to call anyone. The bar and restaurant felt soulless and minimal. After seeing a few people who seemed out of place, I quickly got the impression the hotel is being used to house homeless people and others. I had no issues myself, but as a woman travelling alone and paying to stay somewhere, I didn’t appreciate the possibility of antisocial behaviour. On a dark, rainy day I also couldn’t see the many bus lanes and gates, so I’m expecting a fine. I wouldn’t choose to stay here again.

The breakfast and coffee were both good, and the updated decor gives the place a much cozier feel than its old style. My room and shower area were smaller than expected, but fine for a short stay. In the tiny shower room, the toilet roll holder was awkwardly positioned and got in the way. I also wish they’d sort out the keycards. I needed extra ones just to get through one door and reach my room.

The staff were pleasant, helpful and reliable throughout, and the location is a strong point, just a short walk from the high street. The vending machine at reception worked well, and everything else worked as expected. I didn’t try breakfast, though I saw other guests having it most mornings as I headed out. Travelodge Southampton Central was a decent, straightforward budget stay with no frills. I don’t have any specific complaints, but it feels a bit overpriced compared with nearby hotels that offer more for a similar price. Just an okay option, neither the best nor the worst.