Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC by IHG

We had opted for a superior room in order to have a fridge and this extra space (since we stayed for almost a week), and we were not disappointed. The room facilities were very good, with plenty of space and comfy furniture. The lighting suited us, with a desk lamp, bedside lamps and an overhead light, all operated separately. The curtains blocked the summer sun beautifully and the air conditioning was thankfully not too cold for comfort (we have found this a problem in other hotels). The location was perfect for us, just 5 minutes' walk to NEC and about the same distance to the railway station, which has frequent trains to Birmingham New Street. As far as I can tell the area around NEC and airport is quite safe, being miles from Birmingham city centre. When I walked alone from NEC one night after midnight I found the way well lit and completely empty of people.

Quiet very comfortable room. Was easy to walk to from Birmingham airport where we’d dropped our luggage off (the twilight jet2 service). We’d planned to walk back early morning (4.30am) to catch our flight but the receptionist said it wasn’t advisable to walk through the nec at that time in the morning. He was careful to phrase it in a way that wouldn’t scare my son who was listening but advised a taxi instead. He quickly called one for us which took 10 mins to come and cost £15. Had we known in advance we’d have pre-booked as when we got to the airport it was a long queue, however we made it through ok. So thanks to the hotel for thinking of our safety, and to whoever is planning to use this as an airport hotel it was the same quality as the Novotel but pretty much half the price on the July school hols night we stayed. And much quieter.

We loved the view from our room, overseeing the lake. We have only stayed for one night, but were very happy with all facilities and interactions with the staff, from checking in, the bar and restaurant, through to checking out. The breakfast was simply amazing, with an amazing choice of food for us and our kids. We enjoyed the evening walk around the lake, there is a number of restaurants you can go and eat in during your stay too. Great care was taken of our 6yo son (who has a dairy allergy) at breakfast. The lady at the restaurant entrance kindly offered dairy free muffins for him and even gone the extra mile and brough him delicious Starbucks oatmilk hot chocolate. I would highly recommend this hotel to any friends and families with kids. Everything was 10/10 and if we are in the area again in the future, we will definitely stay here again.

Hotel was conveniently close to the BP Pulse Live arena for a concert we were going to. Literally 2-3 minutes’ walk. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. Bright and airy lounge area - it was very busy during our stay as there were two conferences going on as well as the concert so limited availability for booking a table for food. Breakfast was also very busy and staff were finding it a task to seat people. Hotel made an effort to do something special for my parents who were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary - which was a nice touch.

Our room was very comfortable and welcoming after a very long day. The location was good - we had booked to be close to the BP Pulse as we had attended a concert there Reception staff were very understanding when we had not been able to take out luggage to the hotel prior to the concert due to a transport issue Reception staff were also very understanding on checkout day when my daughter, who has significant additional needs was struggling to leave the hotel due to high anxiety, they allowed us an extension until midday so that she had time to process the stressors and leave in good time