Law Courts Hotel

The hotel's historic building and art deco charm, adorned with old photos and magic-themed memorabilia, offer a unique and memorable stay. This character, combined with a well-patronized bar and restaurant, creates a distinct atmosphere. The hotel is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious travelers and sightseers who prioritize a central location for exploring the city. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the building's heritage. However, it may be less ideal for families with young children due to potential noise levels. Guests should be aware that while the hotel offers a glimpse into the past, some areas are in need of modernization. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room away from the main road to minimize traffic noise, and be prepared for an older aesthetic rather than a contemporary one.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides several convenient facilities for guests, including a lively bar and a restaurant located on the ground floor, which are popular among both guests and locals. An elevator is available, making access to upper floors easier, though some guests noted it might have restricted access during certain hours. Rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as heaters or electric blankets to combat the cold, and some include a fridge for personal use. While free Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests experienced connectivity issues. Other practical features mentioned include a shared ironing board and a TV with Freeview channels. The hotel also features a pokie room and a TAB self-service facility, catering to specific leisure interests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, with many highlighting the hotel's age. Most guests found the beds comfortable and appreciated the fresh linen, ensuring a restful sleep. However, a significant number of reviews describe rooms as old, dated, tired, or shabby, indicating a strong need for refurbishment. Recurring issues include mould found in bathrooms, on curtains, and around windows, along with stains on carpets and general uncleanliness, particularly under beds. Bathrooms are frequently cited as being very old-fashioned and in poor condition, with issues like cracked basins, leaking toilets, torn shower curtains, poor water pressure, and even rotten floors. Noise is a major concern for many, stemming from street traffic, the downstairs pub, and other guests, often due to a lack of soundproofing and the necessity of opening windows for ventilation. Some rooms also experienced issues with heating or condensation.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant and bar receive varied feedback, with many guests praising the food quality and diverse menu for lunch and dinner. Popular dishes include loaded fries, the big breakfast champ, chicken katsu melt, pork burger, and sticky date pudding, often described as delicious and well-priced pub fare. The roast of the day and porterhouse also received positive mentions for their generous portions and quality. However, the breakfast service was often criticized as disorganized or non-existent, with some guests finding the food disappointing, citing issues like burnt toast or hard eggs. Several reviews noted that the kitchen had inconsistent hours, being closed for lunch on certain weekdays or closing earlier than expected in the evenings, leading to frustration. Some guests also reported long waits for meals and, in isolated cases, undercooked food.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous attractions and amenities. It is conveniently close to the Octagon, the railway station, Chinese Gardens, the cathedral, and various shopping, cafes, and restaurants. Proximity to the bus stand and city bus hub also makes it ideal for exploring the wider area, and a supermarket is just a short walk away. Many guests appreciate the availability of onsite parking, with some even finding it to be free parking, which is a significant benefit in the city center. However, some reviews indicate that parking can be limited or subject to charges, and navigating city driving can be challenging. Despite some concerns about the immediate surroundings, the hotel's accessibility to key landmarks is a strong draw.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receive positive feedback for their friendliness, helpfulness, and welcoming attitude. Many guests experienced quick check-in processes and appreciated the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as providing extra pillows or a table and chair. The bar staff are frequently praised for their pleasant demeanor and efficiency. However, there are notable instances of negative experiences. Some guests reported rude or unhelpful interactions with certain staff members, including issues with refunds and perceived dismissiveness. There were also complaints about long waits for check-in or check-out, and a lack of acknowledgment or apology for delays. Isolated incidents included cleaners leaving keys in the door of rooms and staff being observed yelling at wait staff. Overall, while many found the service commendable, consistency appears to be an area for improvement.

Additional Information
The hotel is steeped in history, with its art deco architecture and numerous old photos and memorabilia adorning the walls, including images of royalty. This provides a unique, old-world charm that many guests appreciate. The hotel also occasionally hosts a magic show, adding an unusual entertainment option. Guests should be aware of specific operational policies: reception hours can be limited, with no staff available after a certain time in the evening, requiring guests to use a door code for entry. The lift access may also be restricted during these off-hours. Some guests noted that the information folder in rooms was sparse, lacking details about hotel services or local attractions. The hotel is generally considered a budget-friendly option, offering basic but adequate accommodation for those prioritizing location and affordability over modern amenities.