We did not have high expectations as we usually stay in 4 star hotels near mountains and lakes. We stayed here because we wanted a city centre location to enable us to visit a concert at the City Hall, the Live Theatre and the museums and art galleries.
The reception staff made up for the reception area.
The room was on the fourth floor looking east and wasn't overlooked. It was also quiet. It was very clean and the bed was extremely comfortable.
The buffet breakfast was very good and only small amounts were put out at a time ensuring it was hot and fresh. The lady in charge made sure that it ran like clockwork even when one of the staff forgot about the porridge that we'd requested.
The staff were generally one of the best features of the hotel - friendly Geordies.
The location is as good as it gets if you ignore the lack of kerb appeal.
Why does music have to be so loud in the bar?
We will probably be back for future concert/theatre breaks more