Hotel Indigo Durham By Ihg

This hotel offers a truly memorable experience, largely due to its stunning historical building which has been thoughtfully converted from its past as a university and shire hall, preserving many original architectural features. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff and service, the comfortable accommodations, and the high-quality dining options, particularly breakfast. Its central location makes it ideal for sightseers and couples seeking a romantic getaway, while families can also find suitable arrangements with connecting rooms. Business travelers appreciate the convenient location and facilities. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to clarify room lighting preferences upon booking, as some rooms have limited natural light, and be aware of the parking arrangements.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's conversion has retained its grand character, featuring impressive stained glass windows, wood paneling, and a magnificent rotunda bar that provides a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. Guests appreciate the convenience of an on-site cafe and a well-equipped fitness room with various machines and weights. Rooms are generally well-appointed with modern conveniences such as Nespresso coffee machines, kettles, and complimentary items in the mini-fridge. Many guests found the Wi-Fi to be quick and reliable, allowing for casting mobile devices to the TV. While the building's historical nature means some areas like the bar can feel dimly lit, the overall ambiance is one of elegant comfort.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the spotless cleanliness and overall comfort of the rooms. The beds are consistently described as very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some found mattresses to be on the firmer side. Spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers and excellent water pressure are a highlight, often featuring quality toiletries. Most rooms are tastefully decorated, blending historical charm with modern style. However, some guests noted that certain rooms, particularly on lower or ground floors, can be dark due to limited natural light or window placement, and a few experienced issues with heating or air conditioning effectiveness, leading to rooms being too warm or cold. Noise from adjacent rooms or corridors was occasionally mentioned but generally not a significant issue.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience, particularly breakfast, receives widespread praise. Served in a spectacular domed room that was once a council chamber, breakfast offers a mix of cooked-to-order hot items and a comprehensive continental buffet including fresh fruit, cold meats, and cheeses. Guests consistently highlight the quality of the food, with many recommending specific dishes like poached eggs with avocado or the full English breakfast. The Marco Pierre White restaurant on-site is also highly regarded for its dinner menu, offering a good choice of meals, including steaks and a full vegan menu, with many guests finding the food superb and beautifully presented. The staff's attentive handling of allergies and dietary requirements is frequently noted as excellent.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. It is situated within a short walking distance of major attractions such as Durham Cathedral, the castle, and the city center's shops, restaurants, and bars. Its proximity to the river also allows for pleasant walks. Public transportation links are easily accessible, with the hotel being a short walk from the main city areas. Parking is available on-site, though it is a paid service, with guests noting it can be expensive. Some guests found street parking nearby to be a more cost-effective alternative. The hotel's position provides a quiet environment despite its central setting.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome received upon arrival and the efficiency of the check-in and check-out processes. The team is praised for being attentive and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to assist with requests, whether it's providing local recommendations, resolving room issues, or accommodating special occasions. The service in the restaurant and bar is also highly commended, with staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience and expertly handling dietary needs. Many guests felt that the staff's dedication significantly enhanced their overall stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel offers convenient on-site parking, it comes with a daily charge, and spaces are on a first-come, first-served basis. Some rooms may have skylight windows instead of traditional ones, which can affect light levels. The hotel's unique design, stemming from its historical conversion, means that some areas, particularly corridors, can feel like a maze initially. For those with specific needs, it's worth noting that while some rooms are spacious, others may be smaller, and only a limited number feature bathtubs. The hotel is also known for its excellent handling of food allergies, providing peace of mind for guests with dietary restrictions.