Holiday Inn Express Exeter East by IHG, garners strong praise from guests for its strategic location near the M5 motorway, making it an ideal stopover for travelers to destinations such as Cornwall. It's conveniently close to Exeter Airport, Exeter Business Park and the Met Office and offers easy public transport access, assisting quick trips to the city center. The hotel's tranquil atmosphere, despite being near major routes, enhances its appeal, along with nearby dining options like the Miller & Carter Steakhouse.
Guests have largely positive feedback on the breakfast service, appreciating the variety of hot and continental options included in the room price. While there are occasional complaints about the food's temperature and quality, most find the offerings plentiful and the arrangement well-organized with helpful staff. Gluten-free options are available, though some guests desire more choices for vegetarians and vegans.
Dinner reviews are mixed with some enjoying the meal while others criticize the menu as limited and overpriced. Neighboring restaurants often serve as preferable alternatives. Despite the varied opinions on the food, the bar and restaurant staff receive praise for their excellent service.
Room cleanliness and comfort stand out with many guests noting spacious, tidy and well-equipped rooms. However, some mention issues with temperature control, noise and dated decor. Maintenance concerns, such as inconsistent air conditioning and noise from plumbing, are noted by some guests, but overall, the rooms are considered functional and practical.
Cleanliness across the hotel is consistently highlighted positively with immaculate rooms and well-maintained facilities drawing frequent praise. The cleanliness of common areas like the restaurant and bar also receives commendations, contributing to a pleasant stay.
The hotel's staff is often described as its greatest asset, known for their friendliness, professionalism and helpful nature. Numerous individual commendations highlight the staff's willingness to assist and ensure a comfortable stay for guests.
WiFi experience varies among guests; some find it reliable and fast, while others report inconsistent connections. Nevertheless, the fact that it is a complimentary service throughout the hotel is appreciated.
Parking is convenient, though guests should note the additional nightly fee. Despite the cost, the parking facility is well-maintained, well-lit and easy to use, adding to the hotel's convenience factor.
Families find the hotel accommodating with spacious family rooms and a generally quiet environment. Although some rooms feel tight for larger families, amenities like cots and early check-ins are appreciated. Noise issues are noted during weekends and further comments address limited pet-friendliness, though interaction with dogs is welcomed.
The beds receive mixed reviews; many guests describe them as comfortable, but some find them smaller and less comfortable than expected. Pillow preferences vary and there is a call for further bed upgrades to enhance guest comfort.
The hotel is generally seen as accessible, offering well-designed rooms and facilities for guests with disabilities. The friendly staff and convenient location further support a positive experience for guests with mobility issues.
In summary, Holiday Inn Express Exeter East by IHG, is praised for its convenient location, cleanliness, friendly staff and practical amenities. While there are areas for improvement, particularly with breakfast and dinner options, temperature control in rooms and WiFi reliability, it remains a strong choice for both business and leisure travelers.
The Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park enjoys considerable praise for its strategic location, offering easy access to the M5 motorway and key sites like Sandy Park Stadium, Exeter city center, the airport and attractions in Devon and Cornwall. Travelers find the clean and spacious rooms to be a quiet respite, despite nearby major roads, offering beautiful countryside views. While a bit isolated for those relying on public transport or seeking city center conveniences, nearby amenities like a Tesco and David Lloyd gym add to the overall convenience.
Guests universally compliment the breakfast, noting its high quality and extensive variety, from traditional cooked items to fresh fruits and yogurt, enhanced by the charming top-floor dining area with great views. Though peak times occasionally cause crowding and some wish for better hot food temperature and improved self-service instructions, the breakfast service is generally seen as a highlight.
Dinner experiences are marked by excellent food quality at The View Restaurant, particularly its superb fillet steak and stylish ambiance. However, guests mention high prices, limited vegetarian and vegan options, slow service and the restaurant’s tendency to be fully booked or closed past certain hours. Bar food reviews were less favorable, often described as sub-standard and cold with slow service, though overall, the rooftop restaurant's fabulous views and attentive service are highly appreciated.
Rooms receive notable praise for being modern, stylish, clean and comfortable, equipped with thoughtful amenities like reading lights and frosted glass in bathrooms. Minor issues like occasional housekeeping oversights and limited in-room supplies were noted, but the friendly and helpful staff contribute significantly to enhancing the guest experience.
Cleanliness standards at the hotel are commendably high with guests consistently emphasizing "spotless rooms" and "immaculate cleanliness." The modern design adds to a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the property, ensuring a welcoming and pristine environment.
The staff at Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park are frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Individual mentions highlight the exceptional service provided by key staff members, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere despite a few isolated incidents of stressed or inexperienced staff members.
However, a major area for improvement is the hotel's WiFi, which is not included in the standard room rate and often critiqued for its additional charges and unreliable connectivity. This is particularly problematic for business travelers.
The gym, though compact, is positively reviewed for being well-maintained, clean and equipped with top-of-the-range fitness equipment, offering 24/7 availability and complimentary water, though some guests found the amenities minimal.
Beds at the hotel are overwhelmingly praised for their comfort, size and quality, contributing to restful nights despite occasional variability in mattress firmness. Modern facilities and good air conditioning in the rooms enhance the overall sleeping experience.
For business travelers, the hotel's strategic location, spacious rooms with work-friendly desks, efficient business center and well-equipped meeting rooms make it a top choice. Despite minor check-in delays and basic dining options, its professional and welcoming atmosphere, combined with modern facilities and high cleanliness standards, ensures a comfortable and productive stay.
Overall, Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park stands out for its strategic location, high-quality breakfast, modern rooms, exceptional cleanliness and welcoming staff, making it a highly recommended choice for both leisure and business travelers.