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Summary of reviewsThe Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG presents a highly favorable experience for travelers visiting the Canterbury area, particularly noted for its practical and convenient location. Ideally situated just off the A2 motorway, the hotel provides excellent access to those exploring Canterbury, the South Coast, or traveling towards the ferry ports at Dover. Despite its location behind a petrol station and proximity to a major dual-carriageway, the hotel remains surprisingly quiet, with renovated rooms offering a refuge from road noise. Guests appreciate the ample parking and accessibility, especially for those with cars.
The positive reviews extend to the hotel's offerings, with breakfast receiving commendations for its generous variety and quality. Guests enjoy a hearty and plentiful buffet featuring both hot and continental options, with attentive staff ensuring a smooth dining experience. Dinner also garners praise for its varied menu, including options like Indian cuisine. Despite occasional limitations, particularly for vegetarian and vegan options, the overall dining experience is described as pleasurable, enhanced by good quality food and reasonable prices.
The hotel's accommodation is frequently highlighted for its cleanliness and comfort. Rooms are described as very clean, with spaciousness and modern décor contributing to a restful stay. The comfortable beds promote a good night's sleep, supported by lovely bedding and plentiful pillows. Although some find the rooms small for larger families, the essential comforts and attentive service make it a reliable choice.
Staff service is a standout feature, consistently praised for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and efficient. Their warm demeanor enhances the guest experience significantly, contributing to the hotel's reputation for excellent customer service.
Complimentary amenities, including free WiFi, further add value, with many guests appreciating the convenience. While room sizes can be a constraint for families, the overall atmosphere remains welcoming, catering well to both solo and family travelers. The hotel's competitive pricing and consistent delivery of a satisfactory experience make it a preferred stopover for those seeking efficiency and comfort without luxury.
Business travelers also find the hotel accommodating, with convenient access for quick meetings and stopovers. The strategic location and quality service make it a reliable choice for brief working stays, with management fostering familiarity with regular guests.
Overall, the Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG stands out for its functionality, cleanliness, and welcoming staff, offering valuable amenities and comfort at a reasonable price point, serving well as a practical base for exploring the charming region of Canterbury and the South Coast. Show more
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Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel provides a comfortable stay without stretching your budget. Featuring modern decor and spacious family rooms, it is perfect for families needing an efficient and enjoyable lodging experience. Each morning, guests can start the day with a complimentary breakfast.
Accessible Hotel
This hotel is listed as offering accessible facilities.
Business Hotel
Room Types
Standard Double Room with Sofa Bed and Free Hot BreakfastModern room with a private bathroom and satellite TV.
Room can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children. The sofa bed is for 2 children only.
Standard Twin Room with Free Hot BreakfastThis twin room features a tea/coffee maker, satellite TV and electric kettle.
Double Room with Free Hot Breakfast - AccessibleThis double room features a tea/coffee maker, satellite TV and electric kettle with and interconnecting door available should a carer be accompanying the guest.
Standard Room with Free Hot BreakfastRequested room type cannot be guaranteed. Room will be assigned at the check-in according to the availability.
Please note, for the Room Selected at Check-In, bed selection is not guaranteed. For this room type, bed selection is based on availability upon arrival and is determined by the front desk.
Guest Reviews
8.3
Very Good
Location
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG enjoys a strategic location that offers excellent convenience for travelers aiming to explore Canterbury and the South Coast. Situated just off the busy A2 motorway, the hotel is ideally positioned for visitors passing through or heading towards the ferry ports at Dover. For those traveling between London and Dover, it serves as a practical stopover, providing easy access to nearby towns and attractions such as Whitstable with just a 10-minute drive to the center of Canterbury.
Although the hotel is located on a major dual-carriageway and nestled behind a petrol station, it remains surprisingly quiet, offering renovated rooms that lack road noise disturbance. Guests appreciate the ample parking and ease of access, provided they have a car, as public transportation options are limited due to the hotel's proximity to the highway.
While some reviewers noted challenges in finding the entrance, especially at night due to nearby roadwork, most agree on the hotel's overall accessibility and convenience for car travelers. The surrounding area might seem remote or out-of-the-way, but the location proves advantageous for those attending local events or visiting family in Kent. Its position just outside of Canterbury ensures guests can effortlessly reach the city's vibrant heart.
In addition to its practical placement, the hotel is praised for its cleanliness, accommodating staff, and well-equipped amenities, making it a suitable choice for both business travelers and tourists looking for a functional and comfortable base during their journey across this charming region of England.
Breakfast
The breakfast at Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG is generally well-regarded by guests, offering a satisfying start to the day with its variety and quality. Guests consistently mention the generous selection, which includes both hot and continental options like scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, cereals, fresh fruit, pastries, and even yoghurt. The all-you-can-eat buffet is often praised for maintaining a high standard, both in terms of taste and presentation. The breakfast is described as hearty and plentiful, providing a range of choices to cater to different tastes, including vegetarian options. A notable highlight is the friendly and attentive breakfast staff, who ensure the buffet is continuously replenished and clean. While a few reviews suggest there is room for improvement, the breakfast often exceeds expectations, especially for an included service at this price point. Overall, guests appreciate the combination of quality food and good value as a standout feature of their stay.
Dinner
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG offers a dining experience that has left many guests satisfied and impressed. The restaurant features a varied menu with a broad range of options, including Indian cuisine, ensuring something for every palate. Guests have frequently praised the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as well-prepared and delicious. The evening meals are noted for their excellent taste, with dishes such as chicken curry and sea bass receiving special mention. While some reviews mentioned that the menu choices could be limited, especially for vegetarians and vegans, the overall impression is that the food presentation is appealing, and the portions are generous. The convenient on-site restaurant has proven to be beneficial for travelers looking for a hassle-free dining option after a busy day. Despite occasional reports of the staff being overwhelmed during peak times, the service is generally commended, particularly for accommodating food intolerances. Overall, the combination of good quality food, reasonable prices, and the convenience of dining on-site makes for a pleasurable culinary experience at this hotel.
Rooms
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury delivers a satisfying experience for travelers, especially when it comes to the quality of its rooms. The majority of reviews highlight the cleanliness and comfort as standout features, with rooms consistently described as very clean and generally well-equipped. Many guests appreciated the spaciousness, which accommodates a restful stay, while others felt rooms could be on the smaller side, particularly for families or groups. Beds are often mentioned as exceptionally comfy, supporting the promise of a good night's sleep. The modern, tidy décor and powerful, functional showers contribute positively to the overall room experience. Despite the occasional mention of room size constraints, particularly for larger groups, guests who prioritize cleanliness and essential comforts will likely find their expectations met. The hotel's accessibility and competent service also receive nods of approval, making it a suitable stop for travelers, including those en route to Dover-Calais. Overall, the Holiday Inn Express Canterbury provides reliable and hospitable accommodations, with good amenities at a reasonable price, catering well to the needs and comfort of its guests.
Beds
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG offers beds that have garnered considerable praise from guests, valued for their comfort and cleanliness. The majority of visitors find the beds super comfortable, highlighting that they had a restful night’s sleep. Many guests appreciate the lovely bedding, noting details like crisp linen and a clean environment that contributes to the overall comfort. Although some guests mentioned narrower beds and the challenges posed by an extra sofa bed, the main beds consistently receive high marks for comfort, catering well to relaxation with mattress toppers enhancing the experience for some.
The quality of sleep is often complimented in the reviews, along with the presence of plenty of pillows, which add to the comfort factor. While a few notes indicate particular beds might be too firm or too soft, the reviews predominantly reflect satisfaction with the spacious and well-maintained sleeping arrangements, ensuring a good night’s sleep. This comfort combined with attentive service and the convenience of a quick warming room make the hotel a cozy option for those exploring Canterbury.
Cleanliness
The Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG consistently impresses guests with its high standard of cleanliness. Visitors frequently comment on the spotless condition of both the rooms and public areas, often noting the immaculate and well-maintained facilities. The rooms are described as clean, tidy, and comfortable, with many guests appreciating the modern decor and comfortable beds. The hotel operations are organized and run efficiently, contributing to the tidy and serene environment. Staff members are praised for being friendly, helpful, and attentive, further enhancing the experience. While there is occasional feedback on minor cleanliness issues, the overall consensus highlights a commitment to impeccable cleanliness, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a clean and comfortable stay.
Staff
Visitors to the Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG consistently praise the exceptional quality of service provided by its staff. Described as friendly, welcoming, and exceedingly helpful, the hotel team creates a warm and accommodating atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on guests. Whether at reception, in the restaurant, or during breakfast, the staff go above and beyond to ensure a smooth and pleasant stay, demonstrating professionalism and efficiency even when the hotel is busy. Their attentive and polite demeanor, paired with a remarkable willingness to assist, has been highlighted as a standout feature, making guests feel right at home. The positive interactions with the staff appear to be a significant contributing factor to the hotel's reputation for excellent customer service, suggesting that the team is perhaps the hotel's most valued asset.
Wi-Fi
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG delivers a noteworthy experience with its complimentary offerings. Guests frequently appreciate the availability of free WiFi, adding value to their stay. The internet connection is described as excellent and superfast by some visitors, while others note it can be a bit hit and miss. Nonetheless, the overall impression remains largely positive, with many expressing satisfaction with their ability to stay connected. The addition of a free breakfast is another highlight, enhancing the overall experience even further. Despite a few challenges in accessing the WiFi smoothly at times, the overall praise for service and amenities suggests a welcoming environment for travelers seeking convenience and quality.
Family
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG proves to be a welcoming choice for families on short trips or road journeys. Located just outside of Canterbury, it offers convenient access to the city and surrounding attractions for families and travelers alike. Many visitors highlight the warm and family-friendly atmosphere, complemented by thoughtful details ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel is considered affordable and well-equipped, making it ideal for an overnight stay. Families particularly enjoy the efficient service and the inclusive breakfast, which adds a positive note to their visits.
However, reviews suggest the family rooms could be more spacious, as the current layout might feel cramped for larger families, especially when accommodating additional beds for children. Despite this, the nicely made up sofa beds and clean rooms provide comfort, with some families finding them suitable for their needs. Kids also benefit from the free WiFi and the novelty of sleeping on a sofa bed. While room size poses challenges, the overall experience is enhanced by the courteous and attentive service. The hotel serves well for both family and solo travelers looking for an accessible base for exploring Canterbury and Dover.
3 Star
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG offers a pleasant and reliable experience at a competitive price. It stands out for its friendly, helpful, and warm staff, often outperforming expectations for a three-star establishment. The hotel is appreciated for its cleanliness, functionality, and practical facilities, making it a comfortable choice for both short stays and family or group visits.
Though not luxurious, its performance and services exceed that of other budget hotels and basic chains like Travelodge and Premier Inn. The value is further enhanced by free breakfast and Wi-Fi, making it an economical option in the area. Its location is particularly advantageous for those traveling to Dover or Calais, providing a restful stopover with the convenience of free parking.
Guests find the stay to be a great price-quality match, with the quality of service and comfort making it a better choice than some pricier alternatives. Overall, the hotel consistently delivers a satisfactory experience, making it a preferred stopover for travelers seeking efficiency and comfort without fancy trimmings.
Business
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG emerges as an accommodating choice for business travelers seeking a convenient and practical stay. The hotel’s strategic location facilitates easy access for those passing through Canterbury, making it a favorable stopover for business trips or quick meetings. Guests appreciate the pleasant and helpful staff, who contribute to a warm and hospitable atmosphere, with management often taking the time to get acquainted with regular guests.
The facilities cater well to business needs, providing value for money, especially for short stays. Amenities such as adequate parking and tidy rooms enhance comfort, while the inclusion of breakfast adds to the overall appeal. Many find the hotel ideally located for visiting nearby attractions, such as the university, without the inconvenience of entering the city center itself.
Overall, the combination of reasonable pricing and good service makes Holiday Inn Express Canterbury a reliable choice for an overnight business rest or a brief working stay in Canterbury, with guests often recommending it to others on similar journeys.
Accessible
The Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG offers a generally accessible experience for guests traveling by car, particularly for those on overnight stopovers. Its location on a motorway-style road is both convenient and straightforward, though it does require some planning as entrance and exit are limited to one direction. The hotel offers accessible parking, which adds to its ease of use.
However, the physical accessibility within the hotel itself presents mixed reviews. While some guests appreciated the bathroom facilities designed for disabled individuals, including features like handrails and appropriately elevated fixtures, other aspects were less accommodating. Notably, the hotel lacks an elevator, which can pose challenges for guests with mobility issues, especially if their room is not on the ground floor as requested. Rooms designed for disability access were sometimes allocated in inconvenient locations, such as being far from the reception area.
Overall, while the hotel boasts convenience for those traveling by vehicle, it might fall short in fully accommodating guests with significant mobility needs. The absence of a walk-in shower and the presence of occasional obstacles in public areas highlight areas for potential improvement in enhancing accessibility.
No, Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG.
No, Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG.
No, Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG doesn't have a gym.