THE HOTEL: An imposing Victorian building that’s been restored, enlarged and rebuilt and in a fantastic location in centre of the city, next to the Cathedral and close to the Hippodrome, Science Experience and historic harbourside.
It has been a Marriott since 1991, initially as a Whitbread franchise, and now managed by the US hotel chain and has had £3million lavished on it a couple of years back.
THE CHECK-IN: The air of calm in the cavernous lobby immediately takes all the stress away, helped by the fact that there were no queues at the desk. The paperwork was dealt with efficiently and effortlessly.
THE ROOM: This was a vast corner suite with grand drapes that framed the cityscape outside, windows that opened and plentiful furniture to relax in. The huge flatscreen TV could be viewed from the bed one side or swivelled round to view it from the sofa in the cavernous living area. Neutral colours were highlighted with calming turquoise and lemon soft furnishings. Aside from its good looks, the room had broadband internet access, large desk, air conditioning, filter coffee machine, iron, ironing board and hairdryer. An equally grand brown marble bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and separate shower (found in suites only) gave it a luxury residential feel.
THE FACILITIES: Where to start? A huge array of places to eat, all on the ground floor, from the stylish Champagne Bar with its own open terrace, the more classic-looking Terrace restaurant, the stunning Palm Court for more formal meals (dinner only), cosy Club Lounge for afternoon tea and informal meetings, plus a basement Leisure Club – with pool, gym, sauna and steam – which needs some updating. Wireless internet in public areas.
THE BUSINESS: Some 21 meeting rooms offering a total of 1,350m2, the largest being the Kings Room which takes up to 250 theatre style. The Lancaster can take 120 delegates while the College, Cathedral and Merchant break-out rooms are for 12 to 80 people.
THE VERDICT: This is a four-star hotel that punches way above its weight. It has the feel, grandeur and facilities of a five-star hotel so exudes value and a strong feel-good factor.
THE DETAILS: College Green, Bristol BSI 5TA. Rates from around £165 B&B, including VAT. Tel: 0117 9255 100;
See: www.marriott.co.uk Gillian Upton
