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Summary of reviewsNorth Pier Hotel in Cowes boasts a prime location, nestled right by the beach and close to the main street, shops, cafes and popular local attractions like the penguin parade. Guests frequently praise the easy access to the waterfront and the scenic sea views available from many rooms. This convenient and picturesque setting makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the local scene on foot.
The dining options at North Pier Hotel receive widespread acclaim, particularly the dinner offerings at the hotel’s restaurant and bistro. The variety of food and drinks, including specialties like steak dinners and garlic bread, are frequently described as fabulous, amazing and delicious. The on-site dining convenience adds to the overall appeal, making it a favored choice for meals after a day of exploring.
Rooms at North Pier Hotel are generally clean, spacious and comfortable, often featuring beautiful bay views. Guests appreciate the tidy interiors, comfortable beds and friendly staff service. However, some rooms and amenities are noted to be outdated with bathrooms in particular needing refurbishments. Despite occasional issues with noise and privacy, the rooms offer a decent level of comfort and are suitable for short stays.
While cleanliness receives mixed reviews, many guests commend the overall tidiness and comfort of the rooms with clean linens and comfy beds often highlighted. Housekeeping is diligent, but some maintenance issues and inconsistent cleanliness levels suggest areas for improvement.
The staff at North Pier Hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing the guest experience significantly. Exceptional service from the reception and housekeeping staff, along with particular mentions of Nicole's helpfulness, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.
Families find North Pier Hotel particularly appealing, thanks to its family-friendly amenities like an inflatable playground, a kids' room and play areas that keep young guests entertained. The hotel's close proximity to the beach and the availability of family rooms add to its attractiveness for family vacations.
However, not all amenities are up to par with the Wi-Fi connection often described as poor and unreliable. While the outdoor pool is a hit with families, its lack of heating and occasional cleanliness issues are noted. Parking also poses challenges with limited and cramped spaces, making it difficult to find a spot during peak times.
In summary, North Pier Hotel is favored for its exceptional location, convenient dining options and friendly staff. While it offers a comfortable and scenic stay, certain elements such as room updates, consistent cleanliness and Wi-Fi connectivity could benefit from improvement. Despite these areas for enhancement, the hotel remains a solid choice for families and travelers looking to enjoy the beauty and attractions of Cowes and Phillip Island. Show more
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Categories
Beachfront Hotel
Located on The Esplanade in Cowes, providing beachfront access and beautiful views of the water. Its location and hotel amenities make it a convenient choice for beach lovers.
Hotel near The Beach
Located at 5 The Esplanade, North Pier Hotel is just a stone's throw from the main beach. The hotel is ideally situated for beach access and exploring nearby cafes and shops.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This hotel features an outdoor pool and is centrally located, offering easy access to the beach and other attractions. Guests can enjoy views from the terrace and garden.
Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Parking
The North Pier Hotel provides parking facilities for its guests, offering convenient on-site parking in Lakes Entrance.
3-Star Hotel
While technically located in Lakes Entrance, this hotel is included in the provided list. If proximity to Cowes is not a primary concern, it offers a beachfront location and comfortable accommodations, making it a reliable option for a pleasant stay.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
The hotel has an outdoor pool available for guests. There is also a children's pool.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Cheap Hotel
Room Types
Guest RoomThis air-conditioned room includes a private bathroom with free toiletries. There is a TV, tea/coffee making facilities and both linen and towels are included.
Bay View Queen RoomThis air-conditioned suite has an ocean view and private bathroom with free toiletries. There is a TV, coffee/tea making facilities and both linen and towels are included.
Guest Suite This suite includes air-conditioning and heating. There is a TV, private bathroom with free toiletries and both linen and towels are provided.
Bay View RoomThis air-conditioned, ocean view suite includes a private bathroom with free toiletries. There is a TV, tea/coffee making facilities and both linen and towels are included.
Bay View Family RoomThis air-conditioned, ocean view suite includes a private bathroom with a spa bath and free toiletries. There is a TV, tea/coffee making facilities and both linen and towels are included.
Budget RoomThis room features a private bathroom with free toiletries. A TV and both linen and towels are included.
Please note that this room does not have air-conditioning.
Budget Family RoomThis air-conditioned suite includes a private bathroom with free toiletries. A TV and both linen and towels are provided.
Two Bedroom Bay View ApartmentThis air-conditioned apartment includes a private bathroom with free toiletries. A TV and both linen and towels are included.
Single Bed in Dormitory RoomPlease note that children under 18 years of age cannot be accommodated in the dormitory rooms.
Please note that this room does not have air-conditioning.
Mixed Dormitory RoomPlease note that children under 18 years of age cannot be accommodated in the dormitory rooms.
Please note that this room does not have air-conditioning.
4-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomPlease note that children under 18 years of age cannot be accommodated in the dormitory rooms.
Please note that this room does not have air-conditioning.
6-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomPlease note that children under 18 years of age cannot be accommodated in the dormitory rooms.
Please note that this room does not have air-conditioning.
Bay View Spa RoomThe spacious double room features air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath. The unit has 5 beds.
Four Bedroom Pool View TownhouseThis spacious holiday home consists of 1 living room, 4 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. The kitchen is equipped with a stovetop, a refrigerator and kitchenware. This holiday home is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a tea and coffee maker, a dining area, as well as a wardrobe. The unit offers 6 beds.
Four-Bedroom TownhouseThis spacious holiday home consists of 1 living room, 4 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. The kitchen is equipped with a stovetop, a refrigerator and kitchenware. This holiday home is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a tea and coffee maker, a dining area, as well as a wardrobe. The unit offers 9 beds.
Bay View SuiteThe suite offers air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Bay View Bunk RoomThe quadruple room offers air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 3 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.5
Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of Cowes, the North Pier Hotel stands out primarily for its phenomenal location. Situated just a stone's throw away from the Main Street, it provides guests with seamless access to a myriad of shops, cafes and restaurants. This convenient positioning allows for effortless exploration of the local scene.
Guests consistently praise the hotel for its proximity to the beach, often highlighting the beautiful sea views available from many rooms. The views and the close distance to the waterfront make this an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Cowes and Phillip Island. With the beach located just across the road, guests can enjoy a quick stroll to the sandy shores or the nearby pier, which adds to the overall serene and picturesque experience.
Moreover, the hotel is described as being well-situated for easy access to local attractions such as the penguin parade with many guests appreciating the short walks to various entertainment and leisure spots. The ease of walking to key places without needing to drive is frequently highlighted, underscoring the hotel's exceptional location.
In essence, the North Pier Hotel's prime location right by the beach and near the vibrant heart of Cowes makes it a favored choice for visitors seeking both convenience and scenic charm.
Breakfast
Guests had mixed experiences regarding breakfast at North Pier Hotel. While some found the breakfast to be good or okay, many noted the absence of breakfast offerings at the hotel. They had to look for nearby cafes that opened later in the day which served breakfast. Some guests mentioned a lack of essential breakfast amenities like plates, bowls, cutlery and a toaster, making it difficult to prepare their own meals. Moreover, the on-site restaurant meals were deemed expensive and not worth the price. Despite the clean and tasteful surroundings, many guests expressed a preference for the hotel to provide breakfast options directly.
Dinner
The North Pier Hotel offers an impressive dining experience according to guest reviews. Guests frequently praised the hotel’s restaurant and bistro for their excellent selection of food and drinks. Many highlighted the great variety offered at the hotel bar and appreciated the convenience of having a restaurant on-site.
The hotel’s restaurant was often described as fabulous, amazing and fantastic. Diners enjoyed delicious meals with specialties like steak dinners and garlic bread receiving special mentions. It's evident that the quality of dinner services consistently impressed visitors with repeated endorsements of the lovely, fab and delicious dinners provided.
Despite some concerns about food being overpriced and occasional feedback that meals were only satisfactory, the overall consensus leans strongly positive. The location of the hotel, coupled with the dining options, added to its appeal, making it a convenient spot for both lunch and dinner after exploring nearby attractions such as the beach and pier.
In summary, while there are a few areas for improvement, the North Pier Hotel’s dining facilities generally offer a high-quality, enjoyable culinary experience that guests are enthusiastic about revisiting.
Rooms
Nestled conveniently close to the picturesque beach and bustling cafes and shops of Cowes, the North Pier Hotel offers a mix of rooms that are primarily clean, spacious and comfortable. Many rooms boast beautiful views of the bay, making for a relaxing stay with ample opportunity to take in the scenic surroundings. Guests frequently noted that the rooms were tidy and the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful experience.
However, the hotel does have its shortcomings. Some rooms and amenities are outdated with many guests pointing out that the bathrooms, in particular, show signs of wear and could use refurbishments. Rooms facing the beach were regarded as a plus, although noise from nearby bistros and thin walls sometimes disrupted the peace. Privacy was also mentioned as an issue in rooms with large windows and inadequate blinds.
On the brighter side, guests appreciated the super cold mini-fridges and the friendly staff service, which often took care of any booking mishaps effectively. Regular mentions of clean linen and spacious interiors abound, though the older furnishings and occasional cleanliness lapses, like dusty surfaces and old carpets, did not go unnoticed.
Overall, North Pier Hotel strikes a balance between a peaceful, scenic location and the need for some updates and deeper cleaning. It's a practical choice for short stays, especially for those prioritizing location and basic comfort over luxury.
Beds
The North Pier Hotel has garnered mixed feedback regarding its beds from various guests. Predominantly, travelers have praised the hotel for its exceptionally comfortable beds, noting phrases like "sooo comfy" and "extremely comfortable". Many remarked on the cleanliness of the beds, highlighting "clean and comfy beds" and "comfortable and clean beds" as positive points. Guests also appreciated the larger bed sizes, mentioning "huge size bed" and "small but comfy bed" in their reviews.
However, a few reviews pointed to some areas for improvement. Some guests encountered issues with bed cleanliness, finding hair on the bed and pillows and noted that specific beds were uncomfortable due to firmness or the presence of springs. There were mentions of beds being "hard & uncomfortable" and in need of an update with some reviewers experiencing a poor night’s sleep due to the bed's condition.
Despite these occasional drawbacks, the prevailing sentiment leans towards the positive with many travelers enjoying a restful night's sleep on what they described as comfortable and clean beds. For those planning a stay, it's clear that while experiences may vary, the majority have found the bedding at North Pier Hotel to be a strong point.
Cleanliness
At the North Pier Hotel, guest reviews about the cleanliness of the hotel present a mixed bag of feedback. Many visitors praised the rooms for being nice, clean and comfortable, noting specifically the clean linens, comfy beds and the overall tidiness of the guest areas. Housekeeping seemed diligent, offering daily services and ensuring rooms arrived in a clean state. Reviewers frequently mentioned that the rooms, despite being basic, were exceptionally clean and inviting.
However, some guests encountered issues with cleanliness that dampened their stay. Common problems included dirty carpets, stained furniture and unclean bathrooms, sometimes rampant with mold or dead flies. Several reviewers pointed out the need for better vacuuming and dusting, noting cobwebs and dirty marks that detracted from the room's appeal. Maintenance issues, such as rust, grime and broken fixtures in the bathrooms, were also highlighted, suggesting the need for updates and deeper cleaning attention.
While some guests found the hotel to be spotless and well-kept, others felt that cleanliness was inconsistent and required improvement. Despite these mixed reviews, the hotel’s friendly staff and good location were often noted as positive aspects. Overall, if pristine cleanliness is a top priority for one’s stay, it may be worthwhile to consider potential discrepancies experienced by past visitors.
Staff
The staff at North Pier Hotel are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness with many guests highlighting their warm and accommodating nature. The reception staff, in particular, stand out for their exceptional service, making check-in and check-out processes smooth and pleasant. Nicole, one of the managers, receives specific commendations for her helpfulness.
Housekeeping staff also garner positive feedback for their friendly demeanor and the overall communication of the hotel staff is noted as being very good. Some guests mention that the staff went above and beyond to assist them and were always smiling, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Despite a few instances of less favorable interactions, the overarching sentiment is that the staff significantly enhance the guest experience with their attentiveness and professionalism.
The consistent mention of friendly and polite service, along with high marks for customer service, suggests that the staff at North Pier Hotel are a standout feature, contributing greatly to the overall positive experiences of guests staying at the property.
Wi-Fi
North Pier Hotel offers a variety of services and amenities, but its Wi-Fi connection appears to be a significant drawback according to guest reviews. Many visitors experienced difficulties connecting to the internet, describing the Wi-Fi as very poor, unstable and sometimes completely non-existent. Guests noted the challenges of using Wi-Fi in their rooms with some mentioning that they could not connect at all, while others reported weak or slow connections. The issue of unreliable Wi-Fi extended to poor reception in specific rooms and frequent disconnections. Only a few guests mentioned the Wi-Fi as being satisfactory or good after initial delays. Overall, while the hotel does provide complimentary Wi-Fi, it seems to be inconsistent and far from adequate for streaming or sustained use, which could be a concern for guests who require reliable internet access during their stay.
Pool
North Pier Hotel boasts a variety of amenities including access to an outdoor pool, which many guests find appealing. Families particularly enjoy the excellent play area for kids and the added delight of features like the blow-up slide and climbing castle. Many guests appreciate having a pool available and the children often have a blast swimming and playing.
The pool area itself receives praise for its nice setting and outdoor furniture, making it a pleasant spot for relaxation. However, it's worth noting that the pool is not heated, which some guests find disappointing, as it makes swimming less enjoyable in colder weather. There are also mixed reviews regarding cleanliness and maintenance with some describing the pool as gritty or dirty.
Despite these issues, the proximity of the pool adds convenience for guests and those who take advantage of it tend to enjoy their time there. The accessibility of the pool, along with additional entertaining facilities like the movie room, contributes to a generally positive experience for many guests staying at the hotel.
Beach
Located right on the beachfront, North Pier Hotel offers a prime location for beach enthusiasts. Guests rave about its proximity to Cowes beach, noting that the sea is just across the road, making it perfect for a quick swim. The hotel is also within walking distance to the main street, shops, cafes and the pier, providing both convenience and a scenic experience. Many reviews highlight the wonderful views over the beach and the calming sound of the ocean at night. The location is frequently described as excellent with an easy walk to various local attractions. Overall, North Pier Hotel boasts a beautiful and accessible setting for a relaxing seaside stay.
Parking
Parking at North Pier Hotel presents a mixed experience for guests. Many reviews highlight positive aspects such as ample street parking, easy parking for cars and the convenience of parking directly in front of rooms or nearby off-street spots. Free parking is also frequently mentioned as a significant benefit.
However, the hotel also faces several challenges regarding its parking facilities. The parking area is often described as small and cramped with limited spaces that fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Guests regularly note the difficulty in finding a parking spot on-site and sometimes have to resort to street parking or parking further away, which can be inconvenient. The gravel parking area is not ideal for larger vehicles or motorbikes and no dedicated parking spaces are provided for families or specific rooms. Additionally, the lack of secure parking and competition from restaurant and pub patrons exacerbate the situation, particularly after 6 pm.
Overall, while some guests find parking manageable and convenient, others encounter significant difficulties, highlighting the hotel's need to improve its parking arrangements to better accommodate all guests.
Family
Nestled close to the beach, North Pier Hotel offers various amenities and activities catering to families with children. Many guests highlighted the family-friendly atmosphere and noted that the hotel is particularly well-suited for family outings. One of the major attractions for kids is the impressive inflatable playground featuring huge slides and a cinema, which provided endless entertainment for young guests.
Several reviews praised the hotel for having a special kids’ room and a bouncing castle, which were big hits among the little ones. However, some guests felt that the kids' room should have longer hours of operation to maximize enjoyment. Play areas for children were also appreciated, adding to the overall family-friendly environment.
Accommodation-wise, the family rooms garnered positive remarks for their size and suitability, although a few comments mentioned noise issues and the occasional small room. The budget family rooms were described as perfect and providing good value for money. Many noted the high general cleanliness and the helpfulness of the housekeeping staff, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Despite its favorable reviews for family stays, there were isolated comments about the hotel not being suitable for families in certain aspects, such as room noise and lighting disturbances for children. Nevertheless, the hotel’s strong points, including its prime location meters from the beach and access to free parking, make it an attractive option for those planning a family getaway.
Overall, North Pier Hotel stands out for its family-oriented services and amenities, making it a great choice for a delightful family vacation.
3 Star
For travelers seeking a budget-friendly option that lives up to its three-star rating, North Pier Hotel presents itself as a worthy choice. Guests consistently highlight the affordability of the accommodation, noting its high cost-performance ratio and good value for money. Despite some critiques about the room sizes being on the smaller side and the cleanliness needing improvement, the hotel still meets the expectations set for a three-star establishment.
While some reviewers felt the price for the budget rooms was a bit steep, many others appreciated the great value offered at the given rates. This sentiment is echoed particularly in terms of the overall experience compared to what is generally expected from a budget-friendly option.
A few aspects such as limited wardrobe space, lack of in-room Wi-Fi and the occasional cramped room were pointed out. Yet, the general consensus is that the hotel delivers on the essentials, making it a solid option for those traveling on a budget and looking for a satisfactory stay with notable value for money.
Outdoor Pool
The North Pier Hotel's outdoor pool receives largely positive feedback from guests, who describe it as amazing, nice and relaxing—a great spot for both children and adults to unwind. Many highlight the convenience of simply walking into the pool area, which is kept clean and well-maintained by the attentive housekeeping staff. While some guests appreciate the heated pool, others note it wasn't consistently available, limiting activities for younger children at times. Despite the overall enjoyment, a few guests mention the spa motors being loud, an issue exacerbated by concerns about soundproofing. Additionally, a few remarks pointed out that the pool has room for improvement in maintenance and upkeep. Overall, the outdoor pool at North Pier Hotel provides a pleasant and enjoyable experience, albeit with some areas that could benefit from further attention.
Beachfront
Located in an ideal beachfront setting, North Pier Hotel boasts a prime location just a stone's throw from the beach. Guests rave about the spectacular sea views available from many of the rooms, where you can even hear the ocean at night. The hotel is right across from the beach, offering unparalleled proximity to the shoreline, making it perfect for those wanting to enjoy the beach easily and frequently.
Many reviews highlight the hotel's unbeatable position, stating it's the best spot in town with a great view. The location is not just convenient for the beach, but it's also close to the main shopping area and the town, allowing for easy access to amenities and activities. Whether it’s a stroll on the foreshore or a quick walk to the beaches and bay views, North Pier Hotel positions itself as an excellent option for beach lovers. Despite minor issues like inconsistent housekeeping and occasional check-in mix-ups, the hotel shines through with its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.
Yes, North Pier Hotel has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at North Pier Hotel.
No, North Pier Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at North Pier Hotel.