This place has been a Novotel for as long as I can recall. I must have driven past it many, many times over the years (I bet it was built, as a Novotel, in the 70's.. early 80's at the latest).. but, despite being an Accor regular over the years, only recently had the opportunity to stay.
The hotel is conveniently located next to the M6 and I stopped there for a night before a show at the NEC. It took us only 20 mins or so to get to the NEC so i would say that's convenient.
Got a great rate, prepaid on Accor.com, something like £50 including a breakfast.
You walk into a modern Reception and bar area that is pretty welcoming. Check-in staff pleasant and efficient, accommodated requests, no problems there, was in the room in a matter of minutes.
Room was nice enough, what I think of as a typical half conversion from the old novotel to new. New styles etc, semi refurb to bathroom, old desks etc. Not the full conversion that some have had (new desks etc). No complaints on the facilities front.. Tea/coffee facilities in room were welcome.
Only one power outlet by the desk. Not enough if you have phone and computer and something else to plug in.
Bed comfort perhaps not the greatest but not bad, but (an ongoing thing with me) I don't like the current crop of novotel pillows.. i find them uncomfortable... one is too low, and with two you feel like your head is in the air.. there's no give in them.. But, well, what some don;t like, others will.. so I guess that's a matter of preference..
Had a rear facing room and it was very quiet.. Couldn't hear anything from the nearby motorway..
Bar area was not so busy when we tried it and the service was good. It's not huge, though, so maybe it could get a little busy if the hotel were busier than it was when we stayed (fairly quiet).
Breakfast was nice, typical english buffet-type experience, plenty of food, freshly cooked.
Nice to see that the hotel reads these reviews, by the way. That should be de rigour for hotel management.. Well done...
- Coventry Novotel
