Arden Hotel And Leisure Club

The hotel is a popular choice, particularly for its unbeatable proximity to major event venues like the NEC and BP Pulse Arena, often just a short walk away, complemented by ample free parking. This makes it an ideal base for event attendees, concert-goers, and business travelers seeking convenience and ease of access. Its welcoming atmosphere and generally clean accommodations also appeal to families looking for a comfortable stay and even pet owners, especially during events like Crufts, due to its dog-friendly policy. Guests consistently highlight the friendly staff and comfortable beds as key positives. While many appreciate the overall value, some rooms are noted as being dated. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room away from the motorway side for a quieter experience, and be prepared for the absence of in-room air conditioning, which can make rooms warm during warmer periods.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest stays. Most guests appreciate the inclusion of a gym, pool, sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi, providing excellent options for relaxation and exercise, though some note the spa area could benefit from an upgrade and the pool can be cold. Guests should be aware that leisure club facilities may require booking time slots. The hotel also features a popular bar area, praised for its pleasant atmosphere, reasonable prices, and late opening hours, making it a convenient spot for a nightcap. While free Wi-Fi is available, some guests experienced issues with connectivity or lack of power sockets near beds. Other minor issues mentioned include a lack of air conditioning in rooms, no fridge, and occasional problems with kettles or the absence of a non-slip mat in the bath.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with many praising the comfortable beds and soft pillows that contribute to a restful night's sleep. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that the rooms are dated and in need of modernization, with some mentioning worn furniture, chipped paint, or stained carpets. Bathrooms are frequently described as small and sometimes unpractical, with issues such as broken bath panels, visible dust, or a lack of proper door handles. Some guests reported a complete absence of hot water in their rooms, or issues with shower functionality like leaking screens or non-adjustable heads. Noise levels are mixed; while some rooms are noted for being quiet, others experience disturbances from noisy pipes, scaffolding, or even other guests. The lack of air conditioning is a recurring concern, leading to rooms being uncomfortably hot, especially during warmer periods, and some rooms lack basic amenities like a fridge or sufficient power sockets by the bed.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive largely positive feedback. The breakfast is frequently highlighted for its quality, with many guests appreciating the buffet style, good variety, and hot, fresh offerings, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. While some find the £14 price point a bit steep, especially for lighter eaters, the overall consensus is that it offers good value. The main restaurant is praised for its excellent food quality, generous portions, and attentive service, making it a popular choice for evening meals. The bar also serves a good selection of food, described as tasty, reasonably priced, and convenient for quick bites. Guests who opted for room service reported delicious food delivered promptly. The afternoon tea is also highly recommended for its delicious selection of sweets and attentive staff.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently cited as a major advantage, particularly for its exceptional proximity to the NEC and BP Pulse Arena, both typically within a 5 to 10-minute walk. This makes it highly convenient for concert-goers and event attendees. It also offers easy walking access to Birmingham International train station and is a short drive from Birmingham Airport, making it ideal for airport travelers and those with early flights. The availability of ample free parking is a significant draw for guests arriving by car, though some note that recent roadworks in the area can make initial access challenging. Despite its closeness to major transport links, many guests are pleasantly surprised by how quiet the hotel rooms remain.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Many reviews highlight the staff's willingness to go above and beyond, assisting with various requests and ensuring a smooth stay. The check-in process is frequently described as quick and efficient, setting a welcoming tone upon arrival. Guests appreciate the proactive approach of the team, from receptionists who resolve room issues promptly to restaurant staff who cater to dietary requirements with care. The overall impression is one of dedicated service, with staff members across all departments, including housekeeping and the bar, being commended for their professionalism and pleasant demeanor. This commitment to excellent customer service is a recurring theme, making guests feel valued and well-cared for throughout their visit.

Additional Information
The hotel offers a notable pet-friendly policy, which is particularly appreciated by guests attending events like Crufts, allowing them to bring their companions along, though some reviews mention occasional noise from barking dogs. Guests should be aware that the leisure club facilities, including the pool and spa, may require booking specific time slots for use, ensuring a more controlled and enjoyable experience for everyone. For those arriving by electric vehicle, EV charging points are available on-site, adding a convenient and modern amenity for environmentally conscious travelers. While the hotel is generally quiet, some guests noted ongoing roadworks outside the property which could occasionally impact accessibility or noise levels around the entrance. A thoughtful touch mentioned by several guests is the provision of free biscuits in the rooms, enhancing the welcome experience and providing a small comfort upon arrival.