Premier Inn North Shields - Ferry Terminal

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, who consistently go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, making guests feel welcome and valued. Its signature feature is its convenient location right by the ferry and cruise terminals, making it an ideal choice for cruise passengers and ferry travelers. The hotel is also well-suited for families due to the staff's engaging interactions and the availability of spacious rooms, as well as for business travelers and those visiting friends and family in the area, offering a quiet and comfortable base. Guests consistently praise the comfortable beds and overall cleanliness. To enhance your experience, consider bringing your own USB charging adapters as in-room ports are limited, and be aware that while the hotel is quiet, some external noise sources or internal soundproofing issues have been noted.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be very clean and well-maintained, with many describing them as spotless or immaculately clean upon arrival. The beds are a consistent highlight, frequently praised for being exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. Rooms are often noted as spacious, providing ample room for guests and their belongings, including wardrobe space. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; while some find them pleasant, others describe them as a bit tired or dated, with some instances of minor issues like a faulty hairdryer or a broken shower head. A significant recurring concern is the room temperature, with many guests reporting rooms being excessively warm and lacking effective air conditioning, relying instead on fans. Some reviews also mention unpleasant odors in bathrooms or rooms, and occasional issues with soundproofing, where noise from adjacent rooms or external sources like a flapping metal sheet can be heard. Guests also note a lack of USB ports or conveniently located power outlets near beds.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel benefits from an adjacent Brewers Fayre restaurant, which serves as the primary dining option for guests. Many guests appreciate the convenience of having a pub next door for both breakfast and evening meals. The breakfast receives mixed reviews; while some praise its variety and quality, including options like a full English and pancakes, others report that the buffet-style food, including the full English, is often served cold, and coffee can be lukewarm. Service at the restaurant can also be inconsistent, with some guests experiencing long wait times for tables and food, and some finding the staff less attentive than those in the hotel. Evening meal quality also varies, with some finding it good value, while others describe it as basic, with issues like overcooked steak or watery gravy.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a major advantage, particularly for those traveling via the Port of Tyne ferry or cruise terminal, which is often just a short walk or a two-minute drive away. It is also considered convenient for visiting local attractions and areas like Whitley Bay, with some shops and entertainment options within walking distance. While the immediate surroundings are described by some as a desolate or tired retail park with views of closed facilities, the area is generally perceived as safe. The hotel offers ample parking, which is a significant benefit, especially for guests leaving their cars for extended periods while on cruises, often at a very reasonable rate. Accessibility to public transport is fair, with the Metro station typically a 10-15 minute walk away, and taxis readily available for travel to Newcastle city center. However, some guests have noted occasional unpleasant smells in the area, attributed to nearby industrial facilities.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive overwhelming praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight how the team goes "above and beyond" to assist with requests, resolve issues, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Specific examples of outstanding service include staff helping with luggage, providing extra amenities like duvets for children, offering Easter activity packs and treats, and even assisting with personal items like drying clothes. The check-in process is generally described as seamless and quick, with staff being very accommodating even for early arrivals. While there have been isolated incidents of serious booking errors or perceived rudeness from a few individuals, the vast majority of reviews emphasize the staff's positive attitude, attentiveness, and genuine care for guests, making their stay enjoyable and memorable.

Additional Information
A notable feature of this hotel is the option for long-term parking for guests embarking on cruises, which many find to be a more affordable alternative to port parking. Guests appreciate the standard 12pm checkout time, offering flexibility on departure days. The hotel also offers accessible rooms, though some guests have reported issues with pre-booked sofa beds not being available upon arrival due to booking system updates. While the exterior of the hotel and its immediate surroundings may appear a little tired, the interior is generally well-maintained. Guests have also noted the availability of luggage storage facilities.