Crowne Plaza Newcastle - Stephenson Quarter By Ihg

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional Club Lounge experience, which many guests consider a standout feature, offering personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere. Its prime location near the city's main transport hub and attractions makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of visitors, including business travelers seeking convenience, couples on a romantic getaway, and families looking for comfortable and engaging stays. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's friendly staff, cleanliness, and spacious rooms as key factors contributing to a positive experience. To maximize your stay, consider upgrading to Club Lounge access for added perks, and be aware that the popular spa facilities can get busy, so planning your visit to them is advisable.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of well-received facilities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, and steam room, providing a relaxing retreat for many guests, though some note the pool can be busy or occasionally cool. A well-equipped gym is also available for those wishing to maintain their fitness routine. The Club Lounge is frequently praised for its comfortable environment and offerings, enhancing the overall experience. Guests appreciate the convenience of lifts that provide quick access to floors. The hotel also features a stylish Gin Bar and offers a WhatsApp service for guest requests, adding to the modern amenities. While the spa offers treatments, some guests find it challenging to secure appointments due to high demand.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently describe the rooms as spotlessly clean, spacious, and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. The beds are generally found to be very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests noted issues with lumpy pillows or joined mattresses. Many rooms feature large bathrooms with separate showers and baths, adding a touch of luxury. While the hotel's location near the train station is convenient, rooms are typically quiet, with effective soundproofing preventing external noise. However, some guests have experienced noise levels from corridors, adjacent rooms, or occasional events. Minor issues like inconsistent replenishment of coffee supplies, non-functional USB ports, or cleanliness oversights in specific areas have been reported by a small number of guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast receives high praise for its extensive variety of fresh hot and cold options, including quality coffee and juices, though some guests have noted occasional queues or items running out during peak times. The restaurant and bar areas offer good quality food, with many appreciating the diverse menu choices available. The Gin Bar is particularly popular for its selection of drinks and pleasant atmosphere, with some guests highlighting specific cocktails. While the overall food quality is generally good, some guests find the bar prices to be on the higher side. Room service is available, but a few reviews mention slow response times. The Club Lounge also provides a selection of hot food, snacks, and drinks, which is a significant benefit for guests with lounge access.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it highly convenient for exploring the city. It is situated within easy walking distance of the train station, providing seamless access for arrivals and departures. Guests can also easily reach popular attractions such as the city center, Quayside, Utilita Arena, and various shopping and dining options on foot. The proximity to the metro further enhances accessibility to other parts of the city. For those traveling by car, a convenient multi-storey car park is located adjacent to the hotel, offering direct access, though guests should be aware that parking incurs a fee and some have experienced confusion regarding payment methods or availability during busy periods.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Many guests highlight the staff's willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, from the moment of check-in to departure. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, though some guests have encountered long queues during busy periods. The Club Lounge service is particularly commended for its personalized approach, with staff often remembering guest preferences and names. While most experiences are positive, a few isolated incidents mention less helpful reception staff or minor inconsistencies in housekeeping. Overall, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme in guest reviews.

Additional Information
Guests frequently highlight the significant value of Club Lounge access, which often includes complimentary drinks, snacks, and hot food, making it a highly recommended upgrade. The hotel generally recognizes rewards program benefits, with many members receiving room upgrades upon arrival, though this is not always guaranteed. The spa booking system can be challenging, as the pool and treatment areas often reach capacity, operating on a first-come, first-served basis for pool access, which can lead to disappointment if not planned. Some guests have reported issues with Amex payment at check-in, suggesting it's a recurring technical problem. Additionally, the hotel occasionally hosts events, which can lead to the bar being closed to residents or communal areas becoming very busy.