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Summary of reviewsHoliday Inn Washington by IHG, is highly regarded for its strategic and accessible location just off the A1(M). It's an ideal choice for those visiting Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham with proximity to attractions like Beamish Museum and Angel of the North. The peaceful setting, ample parking and the presence of EV chargers make it convenient for travelers.
The hotel's breakfast offerings are exceptional with guests enjoying a wide variety of hot and cold options, including gluten-free items. The breakfast buffet is consistently refilled and of high quality and the staff is attentive and friendly. Despite a few minor concerns about cost, the breakfast experience is generally satisfying and often exceeds expectations.
Dinner at the hotel receives mixed reviews. While the food quality and taste are praised with highlights such as salmon and pizza, criticisms focus on high prices and limited vegetarian options. Some guests found the restaurant décor uninviting and service quality varied. However, special meal deals are appreciated for their value.
Rooms at the hotel also receive mixed feedback. Many guests find them clean, spacious and comfortable with good-sized beds and well-maintained facilities. However, some rooms are noted as being dated and in need of renovation. Issues with temperature control, noise and occasional lapses in cleanliness are mentioned, though friendly service and good room amenities generally enhance the stay.
Cleanliness across the hotel is generally good with efficient housekeeping and well-maintained public areas. Guests appreciate the friendly staff who contribute to the pleasant atmosphere. However, some older areas of the hotel show signs of wear and could use refurbishing.
The staff at Holiday Inn Washington are consistently praised for their professionalism, friendliness and exceptional service. From reception to housekeeping, the team is accommodating and attentive, enhancing the overall guest experience and creating a welcoming environment.
The hotel offers reliable and fast WiFi in public areas, although some guests note a charge for room access. The gym facilities are small and in need of updates but provide basic workout equipment.
Parking facilities are excellent with ample, free parking spaces and convenient access, including EV chargers. Despite minor security concerns, guests find the parking situation hassle-free.
The hotel is child-friendly with family-oriented services and activities, making it a great choice for families. However, some family rooms could use maintenance and noise from events can occasionally be an issue. Overall, Holiday Inn Washington offers a convenient, friendly and pleasant stay with standout breakfast options, though some areas could benefit from updates and improvements. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses
Located in Washington, this Holiday Inn offers access to the George Washington Golf Club, providing an 18-hole course. The George Washington Golf Club is a former venue for the Sunderland Masters.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
Room Types
Standard RoomWhen you arrive at the hotel we will do our best to meet your room type preference This is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed
Standard Double Room1 double bed, en suite bathroom with walk in shower. Non-Smoking.
Standard Room with Two Single Beds2 single beds, en suite bathroom with a bath shower combination. Non-Smoking.
Twin Room - Disability Access
Accessible room with 2 single beds. En suite bathroom with walk in shower. Non-Smoking.
Premium Twin Room-2 single beds, en suite bathroom with walk in shower. Non-Smoking.
Standard Double Room - Disability AccessAccessible room with 1 double bed. En suite bathroom with walk in shower. Non-Smoking.
Standard Double Room with Sofa Bed
1 double bed with sofa bed. En suite bathroom with a bath and shower combination. Non-Smoking.
Standard King RoomRoom with 1 king bed. En suite bathroom. Non-Smoking.
Premium RoomUpgraded room type. When you arrive at the hotel we will do our best to meet your room type preference This is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Premium Double RoomFeaturing free toiletries and bathrobes, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The double room features air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, as well as a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.9
Good
Location
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, is frequently praised for its excellent location. Strategically situated just off the A1(M), it offers convenient access to major thoroughfares, making it a favorable choice for travelers heading to nearby cities like Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham. The hotel is ideally placed for visits to local attractions, including Beamish Museum, the Angel of the North and Gateshead Quayside.
Reviewers highlight the ease of finding the hotel and the ample parking available, which adds to its appeal. The setting is described as peaceful and quiet, offering a relaxing stay despite being close to the motorway. The proximity to various amenities, including shops and dining options like a nearby Toby Carvery, adds further convenience.
Ideal for business travelers and tourists alike, the hotel provides a great base for exploring the region. Visitors appreciate its central location for various purposes, from attending family events to sightseeing or business appointments. The presence of EV chargers and proximity to Tesla superchargers are additional perks that have been noted.
Overall, the Holiday Inn Washington is highly regarded for its strategic location, balancing the tranquility of a quiet area with the convenience of easy access to main roads and key attractions in the North East of England.
Breakfast
Holiday Inn Washington receives high praise for its breakfast offerings. The majority of guests commend the breakfast as amazing, standout and exceptional. A recurrent theme in the reviews is the extensive variety with both hot and cold options consistently refilled. Many guests note the presence of unique items like gluten-free options and fried bread, emphasizing a significant degree of inclusivity and attention to dietary needs.
The breakfast buffet is described as plentiful with ample choices for all tastes, from traditional cooked items like sausages and bacon to favorites like crumpets. Despite a few mentions of breakfast being cold or overdone, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the good quality and excellent presentation of food. Staff in the breakfast area are consistently praised for their friendliness, attentiveness and efficiency, contributing to the overall pleasant dining experience.
The dining setup frequently features a self-service buffet, which guests find convenient with some delighting in the option to toast their food. Breakfast hours are also appreciated with the service running from early morning until 10 am. Comments about value for money are mixed with some guests noting the breakfast as fairly priced or included in their stay, while others feel it is a bit expensive.
Overall, guests experience a delightful and hearty start to their day with breakfast at Holiday Inn Washington, largely exceeding expectations in both quality and variety.
Dinner
Holiday Inn Washington's dining experience receives mixed feedback from guests with a notable emphasis on the quality and presentation of the food. Many guests praise the food, frequently describing it as excellent, fantastic and brilliant. Specific mentions of salmon, pizza and street food stand out as highlights, as well as generous portions and a varied selection at breakfast.
Despite the acclaim for the food's taste and quality, there are criticisms regarding pricing and options. Numerous reviews mention the food being overpriced with limited vegetarian and evening meal choices. The pricing is seen as high, especially given the perceived lack of variety on the menu.
The special meal deals and offers, like the dinner bed and breakfast package, are appreciated for their value. The dining atmosphere, however, receives less favorable remarks with some describing the restaurant décor as tired and the main lounge as uninviting. Service quality varies with some guests finding it efficient and others pointing out flaws like delayed service and inconvenient app-based ordering.
Overall, while the dining at Holiday Inn Washington provides good food and enjoyable meals, particularly for breakfast and dinner, its high prices and limited menu choices may not satisfy everyone.
Rooms
The rooms at the Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, have garnered mixed reviews from guests. On the positive side, many have praised the rooms for being clean, spacious and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. Guests appreciated the room sizes, which were generally considered good and adequate for the price with some rooms being described as large and fully equipped. The beds were commonly noted as comfortable with clean and soft bedding and towels enhancing the experience. Some rooms had modern décor and were well-appointed, making them pleasant to stay in. The hotel facilities, including decent room service and welcoming, friendly staff, received commendation, enhancing the overall guest experience.
However, there were several concerns raised in the reviews. A recurring theme was that the rooms appeared dated and in need of renovation with some areas showing signs of wear and tear. Issues with room cleanliness were intermittently mentioned with occasional reports of filth, bad odors and insufficient maintenance. Problems with temperature control were also highlighted; some rooms were either too hot or too cold with faulty air conditioning and heating systems exacerbating the issue. Noise was another common complaint, particularly for rooms situated near busy streets or event areas. Additionally, certain rooms were described as small or cramped, which detracted from the comfort of the stay.
In summary, while the Holiday Inn Washington offers a generally comfortable and clean room experience with friendly service, there is a noticeable need for updates and renovation to address cleanliness, maintenance and temperature control issues.
Beds
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, receives mixed reviews when it comes to the beds, but leans more towards the positive side. Many guests comment on the overall comfort of the beds with descriptions such as very comfortable, comfy and even extremely comfortable. Several guests also appreciate the spaciousness of the king-size beds, which are noted for their generous size and comfort. Cleanliness and the quality of the bedding are often highlighted positively as well.
However, some guests found certain aspects less satisfactory. Some were displeased with the smaller size of the double beds, which they found inadequate for a couple. A few reviews mentioned that the mattresses were either too soft or too hard for their liking and there were instances of beds needing replacement due to being too old or uncomfortable. Sofa beds, in particular, were often criticized for being uncomfortable or having mattresses that were too thin.
Additionally, pillows received mixed feedback; while some found them heavenly, others described them as hard or worn. Despite these criticisms, many guests found the beds perfectly suitable for short stays, appreciating both the comfort and cleanliness provided. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the beds at Holiday Inn Washington offer a generally comfortable experience for most guests.
Cleanliness
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, receives mixed feedback concerning cleanliness from its guests. On the positive side, many guests describe the hotel and its rooms as clean, tidy and comfortable with some specifically noting spotless conditions and modern bathrooms. Public areas also receive commendation for their cleanliness. Housekeeping is often praised for being efficient and attentive, particularly with room maintenance and delivering clean towels. Additionally, the staff is frequently mentioned as being friendly, polite and helpful, contributing to a pleasant stay.
However, some reviews highlight issues that detract from the overall cleanliness impression. Certain rooms are flagged as outdated or in need of refurbishment and complaints about inadequate cleaning are noted. Specific issues such as dirty marks, mould in bathrooms and unclean toilets are mentioned. Additionally, some guests report inconsistent housekeeping services, such as rooms not being hoovered or restocked with necessary supplies.
In summary, while the Holiday Inn Washington generally maintains good standards of cleanliness, occasional lapses and the dated condition of some facilities can affect the guest experience.
Staff
Visitors to the Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, consistently praise the staff for their friendliness, professionalism and exceptional service. From the front desk to the bar and restaurant, guests are met with welcoming and helpful faces that enhance their stay. The reception team is frequently highlighted for being accommodating, efficient and knowledgeable, often going above and beyond to assist with various needs, including those related to children and disabilities.
Both the general manager and the broader team are noted for their attentiveness and warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout the hotel. Housekeeping staff also receive commendations for their politeness and efficiency. Guests appreciate the approachable nature of the directors and managers, which contributes to the hotel’s friendly environment.
The staff’s ability to handle issues professionally and maintain a pleasant demeanor even during busy times is also appreciated by guests. Overall, the consistent theme of friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism across various roles within the hotel significantly enhances the overall guest experience, making the Holiday Inn Washington a standout choice for travelers.
Wi-Fi
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, offers a range of WiFi experiences for its guests. Many reviews highlight the excellent and reliable WiFi connection with some noting that it provides smooth and fast internet access. Positive feedback emphasizes that the WiFi speed is good with reliable performance suitable for basic browsing. Guests appreciate the free access WiFi available in public areas and the good quality WiFi throughout the hotel.
However, it's important to note that some guests mention a lack of free WiFi in the rooms with an additional charge of £7 for this service. Despite this, the WiFi in public areas appears to be both plentiful and free, allowing guests to stay connected without additional costs. While a few guests found the WiFi to be intermittent, most reviews indicate that it met basic requirements and worked very well.
Gym
The gym facilities at the Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, receive mixed reviews. The gym is present and provides decent equipment for basic workouts, making it accessible for guests looking to maintain their fitness routines. However, it is frequently described as very small and minimalistic. Several comments highlight the outdated and worn-out state of the equipment, suggesting a need for a revamp. Cleanliness issues were also noted with reports of an overflowing waste basket. Despite its limitations, the gym remains a functional space for a basic workout, though some guests feel it could benefit from significant improvements.
Parking
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, has received commendations for its parking facilities. Guests consistently highlight the ample availability and convenience of the parking spaces, often noting the large car park and easy accessibility. Many appreciate the free parking provided by the hotel, which adds value to their stay. Additionally, the presence of EV chargers reflects the hotel's consideration for modern needs.
Parking spots are described as plentiful with many guests mentioning that they had no trouble finding a spot and that parking was convenient and easy, including for those with disabilities. The car park’s size and ease of access, particularly from main roads, were frequently praised.
While reviews are overwhelmingly positive regarding the availability and ease of parking, a few mention that the front parking area can become busy and there was one remark about the need for improved security. Despite this, the overall sentiment is that Holiday Inn Washington offers excellent parking facilities, making it a hassle-free choice for travelers with vehicles.
EV charging stations
The Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, offers EV charging facilities as part of its amenities, which includes chargers for electric cars in the car park. Guests generally find these charging points useful and relatively easy to use. Located conveniently on the A1, this service adds significant value to the hotel for those traveling with electric vehicles. However, there have been instances where the EV chargers were out of order, which has left some guests unable to charge their vehicles. It would be beneficial for the hotel to ensure that these facilities are consistently available to meet the growing demand for electric vehicle support.
Family
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, offers a truly child-friendly experience, making it an excellent choice for families. The hotel provides good value for money, especially if traveling with kids. Its family-oriented services include child-specific activities such as face painting, which is not often seen in other hotels. The kids' play area is a highlight, contributing to a safe and enjoyable environment for children.
Families appreciate the helpful staff and the family-friendly rooms, although some guests found that the rooms can be a bit cramped for a family of four and occasionally a bit too bright in the morning. Despite this, the overall sentiment remains positive with children enjoying their stay.
The hotel is also noted for being good with kids, making it a great destination for family functions and gatherings. The family eating areas and child-safe environment further enhance its appeal for guests with children. Whether attending family events or visiting nearby Durham University, the hotel’s convenient location is a bonus.
While some noted that wedding parties could be loud and the family room needed some maintenance, the general consensus is that Holiday Inn Washington is a safe, family-friendly choice with great amenities for kids.
Business
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, emerges as a practical choice for business travelers, thanks to its strategic location just off the A1, offering easy access for those on the go. The hotel features useful business amenities and a basic business center, making it well-suited for work-related needs. Guests have praised the efficient reception team and the prompt attention given to business requests, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free stay. Additionally, the hotel provides suitable business facilities and is deemed convenient for business meetings.
While the business center is fairly basic, it suffices for essential tasks such as sending emails and conducting meetings. The breakfast, though busy at 6:30 AM, is notably good, adding to the overall convenience for those with early schedules. The functional accommodations and decent value for the price make it a reliable option for short work visits. The excellent manager and staff, along with good customer relations, further enhance the experience, making this hotel a solid choice for business users.
Accessible
Holiday Inn Washington, an IHG Hotel, offers a range of accessibility features that cater to guests with disabilities. The property is conveniently easy to locate and provides hassle-free access from major roads such as the A1 and the motorway. Accessible parking spaces are available, although there were mentions of limited designated disabled parking spots.
The hotel offers accessible rooms specifically designed to accommodate disabled guests, complete with comprehensive facilities and accessible showers. The disabled rooms are noted for their spaciousness and suitability for guests in wheelchairs with decent wheelchair access within the property.
However, there were some criticisms about the accessibility features, such as the undignified structure of certain access points, confined bathroom spaces and the need for refurbishment to enhance bathroom accessibility. Guests also pointed out the potential safety risk if an emergency required an evacuation from the sixth floor, as the only rooms of a particular type were located there.
Despite some areas needing improvement, the accessible facilities provided by Holiday Inn Washington include disability rooms, lifts and stair lifts, ensuring a generally comfortable stay for guests with disabilities.
Dog Friendly
Holiday Inn Washington by IHG, positions itself as a dog-friendly location, attracting travelers with pets. However, while dogs are certainly permitted at the hotel, the term "dog-friendly" might be a bit misleading. Guests have found that dogs are allowed but largely restricted to specific areas, almost exclusively the bedrooms. This has led some to describe the hotel as more "dog tolerant" than friendly.
There is an extra fee for bringing pets, typically around £15 and pet-friendly rooms are often situated on the lower floors, which is convenient for quick outdoor access but has left some guests feeling like they were put in lesser quality rooms. The hotel does not provide dog bowls and several reviews mention restricted access for dogs in public spaces such as the bar, lounge and eating areas, leading some to be disappointed with their stay.
On the positive side, the location offers easy access to main roads, which is good for walking dogs. Dogs that do stay are welcomed and basic amenities like a dog-friendly car park make arrivals and departures smoother. Some rooms have been noted to provide space for dog bedding, although slightly tight.
In summary, while the Holiday Inn Washington makes allowances for canine companions, its facilities and rules suggest a more accommodating stance rather than a thoroughly pet-centric experience.
No, Holiday Inn Washington by IHG doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Holiday Inn Washington by IHG.
Yes, Holiday Inn Washington by IHG welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Holiday Inn Washington by IHG.