Holiday Inn Express Middlesbrough - Centre Square by IHG — Hotel in Great Britain

I recently had the opportunity to stay at the Holiday Inn hotel in Middlesbrough, UK, booked through Expedia, and overall, it was a pleasant experience that met my expectations. Here's a detailed review of my stay:

The rooms at the hotel were clean and compact, providing a comfortable and cozy environment. Despite being compact, the room was well-designed, making efficient use of the available space. The cleanliness was impeccable, and it was evident that the hotel staff took great care in maintaining high hygiene standards. The linen provided was fresh, and the beds were comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep after a long day of exploring the city.

The hotel staff were helpful and friendly throughout my stay. They were attentive to my needs and inquiries, providing prompt assistance whenever required. Their warm and welcoming demeanor contributed to the overall positive atmosphere of the hotel.

While the included breakfast was basic, it served its purpose of providing a decent start to the day. The breakfast options were not elaborate, but they were sufficient to satisfy one's appetite. There was a variety of hot and cold items, including cereals, pastries, fruits, and beverages. Although it may not cater to those seeking an extravagant breakfast experience, it was adequate and convenient for a quick meal before heading out to explore the city.

One of the significant advantages of this hotel is its prime location in the city center. It allowed for easy access to various attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient base for exploring Middlesbrough. Whether I wanted to visit cultural sites, go shopping, or enjoy the local dining scene, everything was within walking distance or a short commute from the hotel. The central location added to the overall convenience and value of my stay.

In summary, my stay at the Holiday Inn hotel in Middlesbrough, was enjoyable and met my expectations. The clean and compact rooms, along with the fresh linen, provided a comfortable environment for relaxation. The helpfulness of the staff was commendable, as they were attentive to guest needs and inquiries. Although the breakfast was basic, it served its purpose effectively. The hotel's city center location was a significant advantage, offering easy access to various attractions. I would recommend this hotel to travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of...

Where do I even begin?

I arrived at the hotel with a confirmed reservation – the confirmation email had come through just two hours prior, clearly stating I was good to check in. Unfortunately, what followed was nothing short of frustrating.

I was met at reception by a red-haired member of staff whose attitude was confrontational, dismissive, and entirely unhelpful. Rather than working with me to resolve the issue, I was given an unconvincing excuse about the reservation not being “downloaded into the system.” I travel frequently and have stayed in hundreds of hotels across the UK and abroad, many under the IHG brand, and I’ve never experienced service like this.

Given that the rooms were clearly clean, vacant, and available, I suggested she assign a room from reception and complete the check-in once the system caught up. This was met with resistance and absolutely no willingness to help. Whether she was having a bad day or this is just her usual approach, it’s unacceptable behaviour for someone working in hospitality.

Eventually, after waiting far too long and getting nowhere, I gave up and returned later that evening around 11pm. Thankfully, I was greeted by Lee, the evening porter, who was polite, helpful, and apologetic – a real credit to the hotel.

As for the room itself, I can’t help but wonder if I was intentionally placed in one of the worst options available. It felt more like a storage cupboard with a corridor than a guest room, and the view over the car park didn’t help with a good night’s sleep.

The following morning, breakfast was just as underwhelming. The same receptionist from earlier was on duty and again showed no warmth or welcome. No friendly greeting, just an awkward, forced grin. I’ve worked in hospitality and know how guests should be treated – this fell far short.

To top it off, I was travelling with a disabled guest, and the lack of empathy or understanding made the entire experience feel even worse.

I will be escalating my experience to IHG Head Office, as I believe the way I was treated was simply unacceptable.

Would I return? Absolutely not.

Would I recommend this hotel? Not a chance.

The only positive I can share is the helpfulness of the night porter, Lee – thank you for showing what real customer...

Our visit to Middlesbrough was to accompany our son who is going to Teesside University. We stayed for almost 2 weeks. I put the title of " Almost Perfect ", as this is reflecting what I experienced first hand.

I had been staying at many IHG hotels in North America (USA), as well as Asia Pacific.

I have not seen, the SUPERB and Multi Tasking All Team Members at HIE Middlesbrough.

Thumbs Up to all, and off course to Laura as GM / Team Leader. You have lead and manage by examples.

There were occasions, which our son could not extend the extra nights due to 2 buses of guests were booking on that particular nights. I have seen, everyone were hand in hand, working very hard to get things ready.

I was in the USA last month, and even then, the house keeping were only done every 3 days. At HIE Middlesbrough and also in Manchester (different brand), daily. Thumbs Up

Met with receptionist, also helps in the dining, bar and even assisting housekeeping on one of the late evening in preparing the room. It was Joshua. Salute to ALL of you.

I could write so long - all the wonderful experience that my wife and I , as well as my son had recently. For this, THANK YOU very much !!!!

Only 2 notes , why I rated my sleep quality as average. My room was facing main road and every night - there were always noise from people by the street. I am not sure if the windows are well sound proof. I have a very sensitive hearing, and this noise awaken me. Perhaps on my next visit, I shall make a note to request room on the ODD number (facing opposite - not main road).

The other thing, although this perhaps a little difficult- if there were some options for long stay guest on breakfast choice.

I think, few days, I practically bought something outside (scones) and heated using the corner...