The Lodge Hotel

The hotel's signature feature is its prime location directly on the Newbury Racecourse, offering a unique and convenient experience for racegoers and those attending events. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional friendliness and professionalism of the staff, who are frequently praised for going above and beyond to assist. The hotel is often commended for its comfortable beds and generally clean accommodations, making it a suitable choice for business travelers seeking convenience and short-stay visitors looking for a comfortable stopover. While many appreciate the good quality breakfast, some rooms are noted for being compact and lacking certain amenities. To enhance your stay, consider confirming room size if space is a priority, and be aware that evening dining options on-site are somewhat limited, prompting some guests to explore local restaurants. The hotel's quiet environment is also a recurring positive point for many.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of practical amenities designed for guest convenience. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, though some guests noted the need to re-sign in every eight hours to maintain connectivity. A pleasant bar and lounge area serves as a central hub for relaxation and socializing, with some guests enjoying the option of outdoor seating. Rooms are equipped with a kettle and a generous supply of tea and coffee, along with a fan to help manage room temperature, especially given the absence of air conditioning. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool or a dedicated gym on-site, guests have the option to use a nearby fitness center at an additional cost. Some minor issues reported include a lack of USB ports in rooms and occasional problems with TV reception.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is generally positive, with many guests describing rooms as clean and beds as exceptionally comfortable, often highlighting the super king-size beds. However, some guests reported significant issues, including dirty bed sheets, unclean toilets, hairs on pillows, and dust on surfaces, suggesting inconsistency in housekeeping standards. Rooms are frequently described as small or compact, with a notable lack of chairs, desks, or adequate storage and wardrobe space. Noise from adjoining rooms, lifts, or outside can occasionally be an issue. While showers are generally good, some guests experienced low water pressure, lukewarm water, or slippery floors in the bathroom. Rooms can also become warm, as there is no air conditioning.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives mixed but generally positive reviews, particularly for breakfast. Most guests praise the breakfast as excellent, good quality, and generous, with a full English breakfast often highlighted as delicious and well-cooked. A continental breakfast is also available, though some found the selection to be basic or limited, with occasional issues like pastries running out. Some guests reported that cooked breakfast items could be cold or overcooked, and service could be slow. For evening meals, the bar menu is described as basic and limited, primarily offering items like pizza, panini, and chicken wings. While some found the food tasty and good value, others reported dishes being bland or overcooked, and the bar occasionally closed early.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant advantage, situated directly on the Newbury Racecourse grounds, making it exceptionally convenient for race-day attendees and those visiting events there. It offers easy access to the racecourse train station, providing convenient transport links for guests arriving by rail. Guests consistently appreciate the ample free parking available on-site, which is a major draw and contributes to a sense of security. While the hotel is within walking distance of Newbury town center (approximately 15-20 minutes), some guests found it a bit far for evening excursions and noted that the immediate surrounding area can be quiet. A few guests mentioned that finding the hotel entrance can be difficult due to confusing directions or temporary barriers, particularly on race days, advising future guests to plan their route carefully.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests highlight the welcoming and courteous demeanor of the team, from reception to breakfast service. The check-in process is generally described as quick and easy, with staff often accommodating early arrivals when possible. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the staff's willingness to go "above and beyond" to resolve issues, such as room changes or guiding guests to the property. However, a few isolated incidents mention disinterested or rude staff, and one significant complaint detailed poor service regarding dirty rooms and unhelpful breakfast staff. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing a positive experience is a recurring theme.