The Bedford Regency Hotel

This hotel is highly regarded for its unbeatable central location in downtown Victoria, making it an ideal choice for sightseers, explorers, couples, solo travelers, and business travelers who wish to experience the city on foot. Its historic charm and character are frequently highlighted, offering a unique alternative to modern chain hotels. Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness and the helpfulness of its staff. While many appreciate the comfortable accommodations, some note mixed experiences with room comfort and noise levels. To ensure a pleasant stay, guests sensitive to noise should consider requesting a room away from the street, and it is advisable to plan for off-site parking arrangements in advance.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of amenities, though some are noted for their unique configurations or limitations. Many rooms feature a kitchenette with a hot plate and sink, which some guests find convenient, though it is often noted that cooking utensils, crockery, and cutlery are not provided. Some rooms include a fireplace, adding a charming touch, and select suites boast a jet tub. While a mini fridge is available in rooms, its placement can sometimes be inconvenient, and some guests report issues with its functionality. The television size and placement vary, with some being small or positioned high on the wall. Guests appreciate the availability of coffee makers in rooms. The elevator is described as small, which can pose a challenge for larger items or mobility aids. The lobby area provides a comfortable space with seating and a service area for coffee and tea.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high marks for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained despite the building's age. The beds receive mixed reviews; many find them comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, while some describe them as too firm or springy. Room decor is consistently noted as dated or old-fashioned, yet many guests appreciate its unique character and charm. However, some rooms are described as small or oddly shaped, and issues like torn carpets, exposed pipes, or moldy tiles in bathrooms are occasionally reported. Noise levels are a significant concern for many, particularly in street-facing rooms, with loud music from nearby bars and nightlife often audible until late hours, followed by street cleaning in the early morning. Some guests also report noise from plumbing or ventilation systems. The bathroom layout can be unusual, with some rooms lacking a sink within the bathroom itself, instead having it located in the main room.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer an in-house restaurant or room service, which is noted by several guests. However, its prime location means there are numerous restaurants and pubs within easy walking distance, providing ample dining options. The hotel is situated above or adjacent to popular bars like The Churchill and Irish Times, which are convenient for evening entertainment and drinks. While the hotel itself does not provide breakfast, staff are often helpful in recommending nearby establishments for morning meals. Guests appreciate the convenience of having diverse food and beverage choices just steps away from the hotel entrance.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is its most celebrated feature, placing guests within immediate walking distance of Victoria's major attractions, including the BC Legislature Building, Fisherman's Wharf, Inner Harbour, Chinatown, and numerous shops and restaurants. Public transportation connections are also easily accessible. However, parking is a significant challenge; it is off-site, typically located two to three blocks away, and often incurs an additional fee. Guests frequently mention difficulties with unloading luggage due to the hotel's location on a pedestrian-only street and the complexities of one-way streets in the downtown area. Access to the parking facility can be inconvenient, requiring a separate key and adherence to specific hours. Despite these parking hurdles, the ability to explore the city entirely on foot is a major draw for most visitors.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight positive interactions during check-in and check-out, describing the processes as quick and easy. Staff members are often commended for going above and beyond, such as assisting with scooter parking and charging, arranging taxis, or providing extra blankets and heaters upon request. However, some guests report less positive experiences, including instances of unhelpful or rude staff, particularly regarding late check-in requests or issues with refunds. There are also mixed reviews on housekeeping service, with some guests noting missed room cleanings. Despite these occasional inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is that the staff strives to provide a pleasant and accommodating experience.

Additional Information
As an older, historic building, the hotel possesses a distinct character and charm that appeals to many guests seeking a unique stay. However, this also means some aspects of the property reflect its age, such as certain fixtures or decor. A notable policy is the requirement for a security deposit upon check-in, which some guests find unexpectedly high or held for an extended period. The hotel's prime location in a lively downtown area means that noise from surrounding nightlife and street activity can be considerable, especially for rooms facing the street. Some unique room configurations, such as a kitchenette without accompanying utensils or a bathroom lacking a sink, are quirks that guests should be aware of. The hotel is often chosen for its value and affordability given its excellent location.