Campanile Washington

The hotel is widely recognized for offering exceptional value for money and boasts a strategic location just off the A1 motorway, making it a convenient stopover for many travelers. Its consistent cleanliness and the friendly, helpful demeanor of its staff are frequently highlighted by guests. While some rooms are described as basic or dated, the hotel generally provides a comfortable and functional base. It is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking an economical stay, business travelers due to its accessibility, and sightseers exploring nearby attractions like Beamish Museum, Durham, and Newcastle. Families also find it a practical choice, especially given its pet-friendly amenities. To ensure a smooth experience, guests are advised to bring an extension cable for charging multiple devices, as plug sockets can be limited, and to carefully follow the parking registration process upon arrival to avoid potential fines.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for convenience, though some aspects receive mixed feedback. Ample parking is available on site, which is a significant advantage for guests traveling by car, though the parking registration process is crucial and has caused issues for some who failed to register their vehicles. The presence of EV charging points is appreciated, although these are primarily for Tesla vehicles. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring connectivity. The hotel features an on-site bar and restaurant, providing dining options without needing to leave the premises. However, it is important to note that there is no lift to upper floors, which can be a challenge for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage. The hotel also stands out for its pet-friendly facilities, including designated areas for guests with dogs. A unique recycling initiative allowing guests to leave recyclables for staff to sort is also noted.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is overwhelmingly positive, with many describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained, despite some areas appearing dated. The room condition is frequently noted as basic, tired, or in need of refurbishment, with some mentioning worn carpets or damaged fixtures. While many guests find the beds comfortable for a good night's sleep, a recurring complaint is that "double beds" often consist of two single beds pushed together, leading to discomfort due to unevenness or a central ridge. Noise levels are generally reported as quiet, though some guests experienced disturbances from corridor activity, road noise from the A1, or noisy neighbors. In-room amenities include a kettle with tea/coffee facilities and a TV, but a significant and common issue is the lack of plug sockets, often with only one available, requiring guests to unplug other devices. Some rooms lack a fridge or a working hairdryer, and towels are sometimes described as small. The bathroom facilities are generally clean, with powerful showers often highlighted positively, though some mention small baths or dated fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options, particularly breakfast, receive high praise from most guests. The cooked breakfast is consistently described as excellent, hot, fresh, and plentiful, often prepared to order. Guests appreciate the variety, which typically includes both a full English breakfast and continental options such as cereals, toast, and croissants. Many consider the breakfast to be very good value for money. The on-site restaurant and bar offer convenient options for evening meals, though the menu variety is sometimes described as limited, focusing on basic pub-style food. While some find the evening meals satisfactory and good value, others note that the food quality can be mediocre or simply warmed up rather than freshly prepared. The bar area is generally seen as pleasant, though some guests mention a lack of atmosphere or early closing times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a major draw, offering convenient access just off the A1 motorway, making it an ideal stopover point for travelers. It serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions such as Beamish Museum, Durham, and Newcastle, all within a reasonable driving distance. The surrounding area provides several dining options within walking distance, including a Toby Carvery and a local sports bar. Free parking is available on site, which is a significant benefit, though guests must be diligent about completing the parking registration process upon arrival to avoid fines. Some reviews mention potholes on the driveway leading to the car park. The presence of Tesla superchargers on the property is noted, but guests are reminded that these are primarily for Tesla vehicles and require hotel registration for parking.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome received upon arrival and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond to assist with queries or requests. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient. Staff are praised for their polite and professional demeanor, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. Specific mentions include staff assisting with luggage due to the lack of a lift, providing extension cables for limited plug sockets, and promptly addressing issues like non-working TVs or uncomfortable mattresses. The housekeeping team is also commended for maintaining high standards of cleanliness. The hotel's pet-friendly service is particularly appreciated, with staff often showing genuine care and attention towards guests' animals.

Additional Information
The hotel operates a distinct pet policy, allowing dogs to stay for a fee, and is noted for being genuinely dog-friendly, even offering specific amenities like designated dining areas and treats for canine companions. A crucial piece of information for guests arriving by car is the mandatory parking registration process, which must be completed upon arrival to avoid potential fines from a third-party parking agency. The hotel also implements a recycling initiative, encouraging guests to leave recyclables in their rooms for staff to sort. Guests should be aware that there is no lift to upper floors, which is important for those with mobility concerns or heavy luggage. While the hotel has an on-site bar, its bar closing times can be early, and there is generally no room service available, meaning guests needing late-night food or drinks may need to seek options elsewhere.