Royal Maritime Hotel

This hotel offers a unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its strong nautical theme and rich historic feel, stemming from its origins as a Royal Naval Club. Its signature feature is its unparalleled central location, placing guests just moments away from major maritime attractions and vibrant shopping areas. The hotel is an excellent fit for sightseers and families looking to explore the city's heritage, as well as naval personnel and veterans who appreciate its deep-rooted connections. Couples seeking a convenient base for city exploration will also find it appealing. Guests consistently praise the hotel's general cleanliness and the exceptional friendliness of its staff. To make the most of your visit, consider requesting a recently refurbished room for a more modern experience, and be aware that on-site parking is limited, so utilizing the discounted nearby car park is a practical tip.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a good range of facilities that contribute to its distinctive club-like atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, which is often noted for being warm, though some find it small. The hot tub or jacuzzi is frequently reported as being out of order, which can be a disappointment for some. A sauna is also available for relaxation. The hotel features a charming library area, offering a quiet space with comfortable seating and a collection of books, and there are also snooker tables and other games rooms for entertainment. The bar is a popular spot, offering a good selection of drinks in a comfortable setting. For convenience, a laundry room is available, which is particularly useful for longer stays. Wi-Fi is generally reliable throughout the property, and lifts provide access to upper floors, though some guests have noted occasional issues with their operation, especially in older sections.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the hotel, including its rooms, is consistently highlighted as a strong positive by guests, with many describing the spaces as spotless and well-maintained. While many rooms are found to be spacious and equipped with comfortable beds ensuring a restful sleep, feedback on room condition is mixed. A significant number of reviews mention that some rooms, particularly in the West Wing, appear dated and could benefit from refurbishment, with instances of peeling wallpaper and worn furnishings. However, even these rooms are generally reported as clean. In-room amenities typically include tea and coffee facilities with biscuits, though the televisions are often described as small. Bathrooms are functional, with some being spacious, while others are more basic. Noise levels can vary, with some guests noting sounds from outside generators or from corridors due to thin walls, which might impact light sleepers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options generally receive positive feedback. The breakfast is widely praised for its quality and variety, offering both a comprehensive full English selection and continental breakfast items. Guests appreciate the self-service buffet, which is typically plentiful, though some have noted that hot food items can occasionally be lukewarm or run out during busy periods. The coffee at breakfast is a minor point of contention for some, who desire a higher quality brew. For dinner, the hotel's restaurant is often commended for its delicious food, generous portion sizes, and good value. The bar food also receives positive mentions, providing a more casual dining option. Overall, the food quality is considered a highlight of the stay, with many guests enjoying their meals at the hotel.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major draw, consistently highlighted as excellent for exploring the area. It is situated within easy walking distance of key attractions such as the Historic Dockyard, Gunwharf Quays shopping and entertainment complex, and the Spinnaker Tower. Public transport links are also highly convenient, with the train station and ferry terminal just a short walk away. While the hotel offers some limited on-site parking, it is often full, leading many guests to utilize nearby paid car parks, such as the museum car park, where the hotel provides a discount. This ensures that guests arriving by car have viable options, even if on-site spaces are unavailable. The hotel's prime position allows guests to explore the city's main sights and amenities without the need for a vehicle.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback for their friendly, helpful, and attentive service. Guests frequently commend their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival and departure experience. Staff members are noted for their welcoming demeanor and their ability to assist with various requests, from providing local information to resolving minor issues. The housekeeping team is also appreciated for maintaining high standards of cleanliness in the rooms. The overall impression is that the staff are a significant asset to the hotel, enhancing the guest experience through their dedication and positive attitudes.

Additional Information
The hotel possesses a distinctive nautical theme and a strong historic feel, reflecting its past as a Royal Naval Club, which many guests find charming and unique. It maintains a welcoming club atmosphere, particularly appealing to those with military connections. While the hotel is generally well-maintained, some areas, especially certain rooms and corridors, are noted for their dated decor, indicating an ongoing refurbishment process. Guests should be aware that some rooms may experience generator noise from outside or corridor noise from other guests due to the building's structure. The hotel supports various military charities, which is appreciated by many visitors. For guests with disabilities, blue badge parking can often be reserved in advance. The presence of a characterful library and other communal spaces adds to the hotel's unique appeal, offering areas for relaxation and exploration.