WHAT'S IT LIKE?
A relatively new hotel (opened in 2009), the Novotel has a futuristic lobby not unlike the nearby Apple store in the Liverpool One shopping centre. It’s a modern business property, which also caters to large numbers of leisure visitors. Novotel’s signature Xbox is in reception, though when breakfast is busy, this area is cleared and used for extra tables.
WHERE IS IT?
In the heart of Liverpool, at the bottom of Hanover Street, perfect not only for access to Liverpool One but the Albert Dock, a short walk away, and Lime Street station. The business district is a ten-minute walk away.
ROOM FACILITIES
The hotel’s 209 rooms are on floors one to 11. The interiors have pale wood, dark brown carpets, windows that open but also keep out the noise of Liverpool’s nightlife after dark, and the roar of buses during the day. There were good black-out curtains as well.
Rooms have a variety of city centre views, though mine faced a multi-storey car park. The hotel has great service – staff were friendly and chatty and, when I discovered I had forgotten my iPod charger, one was lent to me for the duration of my stay.
However, there was a problem with both the internet and the 26-inch Philips flatscreen TVs after a power cut the previous day, but the hotel quickly sorted this out. The wifi was free, if a little slow, and only seemed to work for one device.
The workdesk was fine, though there were a lack of plugs in the room – only two in my twin. Tea- and coffee-making facilities were included. The minibar contained only bottles of water that were £2.50 each. Executive rooms (there are 32 of these) also have Nespresso machines, iPod docks and sofas.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Elements bar and restaurant offers all-day dining. The buffet breakfast in the morning has a full selection of cooked and continental options with eggs made to order.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILTIES
The hotel’s ten meeting rooms have capacities ranging from 15 to 100 delegates and are on the first floor. The break-out area has a Wii system connected to a flatscreen TV. The hotel’s business centre is on the first floor and, in reception, there is also a computer for guests to use.
LEISURE FACILITIES
In the basement is a small swimming pool and a gym, along with a steam room.
VERDICT
An excellent city centre choice – good value and great service.
FACT FILE
- HOW MANY ROOMS? 209 rooms including 32 Executive rooms.
- HIGHLIGHTS The good buffet breakfast, free wifi, sound-proof windows that open, and reception with its all-white design.
- PRICE Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in December started from £75 for a Superior room
- CONTACT Novotel Liverpool Centre, 40 Hanover Street; tel +44 (0)151 603 2801; novotel.com
Tom Otley
