Premier Inn Cheltenham Central - West/A40

The hotel's standout feature is undoubtedly its exceptional breakfast service, frequently highlighted by guests for its quality and the dedication of the chef. This makes it a memorable choice for food enthusiasts and those seeking a hearty start to their day. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute significantly to a positive experience. While many find the rooms comfortable and clean, some note areas needing refurbishment. Its convenient location near Cheltenham makes it ideal for sightseers exploring the town and Cotswolds, business travelers needing easy access to main roads, and families attending local events or visiting the university. However, some rooms are affected by railway noise, which can impact sleep for light sleepers. To ensure a peaceful stay, it is advisable to request a room away from the railway line, and booking your breakfast time in advance is recommended due to the intimate dining area.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests benefit from ample free parking on site, making arrivals and departures convenient. While the hotel does not feature an in-house restaurant or bar beyond the breakfast service, there is a Little Waitrose nearby for essential items. Previously, a TGI Fridays was adjacent, but it is currently undergoing conversion to a McDonald's, which may impact future convenience for evening meals. Wi-Fi availability receives mixed feedback; some guests report it as slow or unreliable, occasionally requiring an upgrade for better speed. Rooms are generally equipped with a hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities, though some note a limited selection. Air conditioning is present in rooms, with some guests finding it effective for temperature control, while others report it as noisy or not fully functional. Some rooms also feature a TV, though its functionality or channel selection can be basic, and the absence of USB charging sockets is occasionally noted.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied; many guests describe rooms as clean, spotless, and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant stay. However, a notable number of reviews mention issues such as dust, cobwebs, mould in bathrooms or above air conditioning units, and some instances of very poor hygiene, including dirty towels and stained surfaces. The beds are consistently praised for being comfortable, providing a restful night's sleep for most visitors, though a few found them too firm or soft. Noise levels are a significant point of mixed feedback; while some rooms are reported as very quiet, others, particularly those overlooking the railway line, experience considerable disturbance from passing trains throughout the night. Additionally, some guests note issues with noisy air conditioning units or loud bathroom extractor fans. Rooms are generally equipped with basic amenities, but some are described as tired or in need of a modern upgrade, with occasional reports of issues like rusty bathroom fixtures or inadequate water pressure.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service is a consistent highlight for many guests, frequently described as excellent, superb, and exceeding expectations. The cooked breakfast options, including perfectly prepared poached eggs and bacon, receive high praise for their quality and taste. Guests particularly commend the dedicated chef, who is noted for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and attentive, often going above and beyond to accommodate specific requests and dietary needs, such as allergies. While the breakfast room is often described as small and can become cramped during peak times, the staff are generally efficient in managing seating and service. However, some guests have experienced issues with a broken cooker, which on occasion has led to the unavailability of cooked breakfast items and pastries, a disappointment for those expecting a full hot meal. The hotel does not offer evening meals or a full-service restaurant, requiring guests to seek dining options elsewhere in the town.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a convenient location that is well-regarded by guests for its accessibility. It is situated within an easy walking distance of the Cheltenham Spa railway station and offers a straightforward bus service directly into Cheltenham town centre, making it ideal for exploring local attractions. For those traveling by car, the hotel provides ample free parking, which is a significant advantage. Its proximity to major road networks like the M5 and A40 also makes it a practical base for wider travel. However, a notable aspect of the location is its immediate adjacency to a busy railway line, which can be a source of noise for rooms facing that direction. Additionally, the ongoing construction work next door, converting a former TGI Fridays into a McDonald's, is mentioned as a potential source of noise and disruption. A Little Waitrose nearby adds to the convenience for guests needing quick provisions.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, significantly enhancing the guest experience. From the moment of arrival, reception staff are noted for their warm welcome, quick check-in process, and willingness to assist with various requests, including providing useful local information. The breakfast staff are particularly highlighted for their attentive service, cheerful demeanor, and dedication to ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience, often going above and beyond to accommodate individual needs, such as preparing specific egg orders or addressing dietary allergies. Guests appreciate the staff's proactive approach, with instances of them providing extra duvets, decorating rooms for special occasions, and offering solutions to minor issues. The overall consensus is that the team contributes greatly to a positive and comfortable stay, making guests feel valued and well-cared for throughout their visit.

Additional Information
Guests frequently note that the hotel's overall appearance is somewhat tired and in need of a modern refurbishment, suggesting that while clean, the decor feels dated. A recurring point of feedback concerns the Wi-Fi service, which many guests describe as slow or unreliable, with some reporting frequent disconnections and the need to pay for a faster connection. The hotel does not feature a dedicated lounge or bar area, limiting options for relaxation or evening drinks on-site. While some rooms offer good soundproofing, others report issues with internal noise, such as pipes making sounds, or external disturbances from the railway line. Thoughtful touches like colouring sheets and crayons in the lobby are appreciated by some. Isolated incidents of no power or hot water have been reported, as well as the absence of telephones or complimentary bottled water in rooms, which can be an inconvenience for guests.