Originally Posted by Freetotravel

Just finished a short stay here. It’s my first stay for several years and I had very low expectations based on the recent FT posts. Perhaps having low expectations meant that I was very impressed!

Also, staying recently at both a HGI and Hampton made me realize how much extra value I get as a diamond in a full service property with an EL. And this hotel has a fantastic health club to boot.

I was upgraded to the double room with balcony which was a VERY generous upgrade. The balcony door has to be unlocked and a form signed to agree to certain stipulations about use. Given that the balcony is high and the fencing in the front is low this seems like a good idea. The views of a Newcastle are absolutely spectacular and there is a small table and chairs on the balcony to sit and enjoy. This is one property where I would pay for this room at booking because the panoramic vista is incredible. Otherwise as above the room is quite dated (I was told a multi million £ refurb is on its way next year).

The EL is ok, nice view and nice design with the mezzanine floor too. The evening food was much nicer than I expected. Superfood salad, chips with salsa, flatbreads with humus, vegetable pakoras and “cod goujons”. Usual soft drinks and H&G tea.

Breakfast was among the best I’ve had in recent months. Good spread and what I noticed was that the staff made a big effort to keep the food looking nice during the morning service, straightening up dishes and wiping small spills etc. impressive. Raspberry croissants definitely present!! Generally good quality and well presented breakfast selection. I noticed there were 2 chefs working in the open plan kitchen behind - they seemed to be preparing a great deal of food and again keeping the hot food fresh and appetizing.

Finally to the health club which was excellent. Triangular shape gym which is very well equipped with newish looking equipment and lots of it. Manned all the time. Changing rooms neat and clean and towels provided. What I thought was most impressive was the fact that they have a small program of classes which hotel guests can attend for no extra charge. And the sauna/steam area by the pool is really good as well. It’s a BIT like the pool setup at Wembley but nicer here.

I walked from the Central Station across the high level (train) bridge which is an interesting walk but if you don’t like heights it’s not for you. Gateshead metro station is under 10 minutes walk but be aware the hotel is down a hill from the Gateshead side and it’s quite steep.

The overall combination of generous upgrade, view, EL, great breakfast, and the superb health club made this a winning hotel for me. I’ve already booked another trip for later on in the year.