We got a very good deal for 2 nights B&B and an evening meal through Superbreak and thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

On first impression the rather ugly 60s style building is a bit off-putting but as soon as you enter you see the clean modern interior, which has recently been refurbished, and all is well. The rooms are large, clean and comfortable, with flat screen TVs, powerful showers and comfortable beds. One thing to be aware of though; we didn't realise until the last day when we were packing that the room had a radiator under the window hidden by the net curtain. Until then we had assumed it was heated by warm air and the thermostat on the wall made no difference to the temperature - which was very warm! We spent two rather sweaty nights with the windows open listening to the traffic pass by and we could have turned the radiator off! Never mind we'll know better next time.

As our evening meal on the first night was included in the price I didn't really expect too much and was pleasantly surprised. The food was nicely presented, well cooked and there was plenty of choice. However, although our drinks arrived quickly, we had to wait 35 minutes for our starters even though there were only a handful of diners in the restaurant (perhaps that's why!). Also a side dish of vegetables did not arrive until my husband had almost finished his meal. When he refused it as it was too late the waitress said she would take it off the bill, which she did. It was a shame though as it took the edge off what would otherwise have been a very enjoyable evening. On a positive note the Indian restaurant across the road, where we ate on the second night, is excellent and is thoroughly recommended.

Location-wise the hotel is quite a distance from the middle of Southampton and not on a bus route (according to the receptionist), so we had to use our car every day. There is a car park though and we never had any issues with finding space to park.

The leisure centre is excellent and we used the swimming pool and sauna every day. It is also used by a water aerobics class, so it's wise to pick your times carefully or it can get a bit crowded.

One bad point is the expensive WiFi - £5 per hour. Most hotels of this standard offer it free.

In conclusion a very good hotel. I would have given it 5 stars if it hadn't been for the few niggles I mentioned.

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Clean and well maintained room and public areas, friendly service. Due to train problems I was very late and the desk staff were helpful and made sure the bar was still able to feed me.
The breakfast buffet was very dry, but I have since learnt that you can order a freshly cooked breakfast if you want and would do that next time.

Not only were the rooms exceptionally clean, they have their own heating controls, beds really comfortable, staff were really friendly and helpful, you also get the use of the Health club which is attached to the Hotel, we made good use of this as we took our 2 young grand children and they loved the pool.

I used to be a " Hilton Hotel " girl when in Eastleigh but travelled with a collegue who wanted somewhere closer to the office. So glad I did - as this place is a little gem and have returned 3 times recently because of the following: Outstanding Customer Service from all staff - too many to mention in this review but all reception staff are helpful,friendly and cannot do enough to make your stay/journey as smooth as possible. Bar and Restaurant staff (Ben -does needs a mention!) are always friendly no matter if its breakfast or dinner and again they can't do enough to help with anything you ask - even small things like requesting fresh milk instead of the long life milk all hotels provide in the room - it suddenly appears discreetly in a little jug. unlike other hotels who say they can't provide it as the kitchen is closed? (Do they lock their fridges??) ...
Food in bar is usual hotel prices but worth it - unless you want to pay a taxi into town for a bit cheaper? Its always lovely and fresh and plenty of it. Nice restaurant area - but I never use it as I prefer the relaxed and friendly bar area. Breakfast is served in the restaurant area and once again its hot and fresh..plenty of choice and perfect to relax and wake up in ! Rooms are large,and clean, and always well stocked- though I must say I feel sorry for anyone in a room below me- as when I run my bath (as they are lovely big baths to soak in) the noise of the water running through the system is very loud so don't be alarmed by this if you do hear it...it will stop! So to summarise - I am now a loyal "Holiday Inn" customer and can definately recommend this particular hotel for a stay in Eastleigh. Thanks again to all the staff.