Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG

Bickenhill 52.46366500, -1.71479500 , National Exhibition Centre, Bickenhill (Show on Map)
8.0
Very Good


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Summary of reviewsHoliday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, delivers a well-rounded experience that is mostly appreciated by its guests. The hotel’s prominent location near Birmingham Airport, NEC and Resorts World Arena makes it extremely convenient for travelers attending events or flights. The straightforward routes, ample parking and serene surroundings add to its allure, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Breakfast receives generally positive remarks for its variety, including traditional full English and continental options. Guests value the gluten-free and vegan choices and commend the buffet's substantial offerings and efficient replenishment. Despite some criticisms about limited selections and temperature inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is that breakfast is good value for money and convenient, especially for early risers.

Dinner reviews are mixed; the food is often praised for its taste and quality, particularly the curry dishes. However, the limited menu and higher prices dampen the dining experience for some. Service inconsistency and occasional understaffing also pose issues. The nearby Little Owl pub is frequently recommended as a superior alternative for those seeking a more extensive menu and better service.

Guest rooms are described as clean, comfortable and well-equipped with modern facilities and stylish décor. While some find the rooms spacious and welcoming, others feel that certain rooms are too small, dated or noisy. The cleanliness and essential amenities usually receive approval. Areas for improvement include upgrading some fixtures and better temperature control.

Cleanliness is a strong point with the majority of guests praising the immaculate condition of rooms and public areas. The housekeeping team's efforts are evident, ensuring a tidy and comfortable environment, though there are occasional remarks about specific cleanliness lapses.

The staff at the hotel stands out for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests consistently note the warm welcome, efficient service and attentiveness, making their stay more enjoyable. While there are sporadic mentions of disorganization, the positive feedback overwhelmingly highlights the staff's dedication to excellent customer service.

Free wifi is generally reliable, appreciated by both business and leisure travelers. Some connectivity issues and non-functional USB points are noted, but overall, the internet service supports guests' needs well.

Parking at the hotel is convenient but comes with an extra fee of £12 per 24 hours, which has led to some dissatisfaction. Despite this, guests find the parking area safe and secure, enhancing the hotel's practicality for those attending events or traveling by car.

Families find the hotel accommodating and safe with quiet, clean rooms and friendly staff. Special features like family rooms, extra beds and child-friendly services make it a comfortable choice for those traveling with kids. Minor complaints include limited space and occasional noise disturbances from neighboring rooms or public areas.

Bed comfort is hit or miss with many guests praising the cozy, well-equipped beds while others criticize the mattress firmness and size. Issues with small double beds and uncomfortable sofa beds are occasionally mentioned.

Overall, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC, as an IHG Hotel, offers a reliable three-star experience with commendable cleanliness, friendly service and a convenient location. While there are areas needing improvement, particularly in dining options and bed comfort, it remains a solid choice for travelers seeking convenience and a fair price point.
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Categories
Hotel with Parking
This hotel provides parking facilities for guests visiting the NEC, offering a convenient option for those traveling by car.

EV charging stations  


3-Star Hotel
This hotel offers proximity to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and Birmingham Airport. It provides modern rooms and complimentary breakfast, making it suitable for event attendees and travelers.

Hotel with EV Charging Stations

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Family Friendly Hotel

Dog Friendly Hotel

Dog Play Area  

Do you accept dogs in all rooms?
Yes
Is there an extra charge?
Yes
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in?
Yes, During the booking process
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Accessible Hotel

Hotel with Play Area For Dogs

Room Types
Standard Twin Room with Free Hot Breakfast A twin room suitable for up to 2 adults. This room features 2 single beds, free WiFi, a 32-inch TV with Freeview and an en suite bathroom with power shower.

Standard Room with Free Hot Breakfast A standard twin or double room will be allocated to you on arrival at the hotel's discretion. Your room and bedding preference is purely a request and not guaranteed.

Standard Double Room with Sofa Bed and Free Hot Breakfast A family room suitable for up to 2 adults and 2 children aged under 12 years. The room features a double bed and pull-out sofa bed, free WiFi, a 32-inch TV with Freeview and an en suite bathroom with power shower. If you require the hotel to set up the extra bed, please inform the hotel via the Special Requests box during the booking process.

Double Room with Free Hot Breakfast - Accessible A wheelchair accessible room suitable for up to 2 adults. This spacious room has a double bed, wider doorways and adapted bathroom facilities. It also features free WiFi, a 32-inch TV with Freeview and an en suite bathroom with power shower.

Standard Double Room with Free Hot Breakfast The double room has a private bathroom, air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a seating area with a flat-screen TV. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, boasts an enviable location highly praised by guests, particularly for its proximity to several key landmarks. The hotel is exceptionally convenient for those traveling via Birmingham Airport with many reviews highlighting how close it is—some even noting it’s within walking distance. Whether heading to a conference, exhibition or concert, the hotel is perfectly situated just minutes away from the NEC and Resorts World Arena, making it a favored choice for attendees.

Guests also appreciate the ease of access with numerous positive remarks about the straightforward routes and ample parking, which simplifies travel by car. The serene, green surroundings are another attractive feature, providing a peaceful retreat despite the hotel's central position.

Despite minor feedback about the necessity of a car for exploring other areas or the occasional confusion due to ongoing roadworks, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. The location, combined with the hotel’s clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff, makes it a hassle-free choice for business and leisure travelers alike. In summary, the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC offers a stellar location that caters perfectly to airport travelers, NEC visitors and those needing convenient motorway access.

Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, is generally well-received by guests, boasting praise for its good range of options, from traditional full English to various continental choices. Many guests find the breakfast to be excellent, delicious and offering plenty of variety to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. The buffet style allows guests to enjoy a substantial meal, which is abundant and replenished efficiently, ensuring sufficient supply throughout the service.

However, there are some consistent criticisms, notably the breakfast being described as basic or limited by some with repeated mentions of certain items running out early and the overall temperature of some hot dishes not being adequately warm. Despite these occasional shortcomings, the majority of guests appreciate the breakfast as good value for money, highlighted by the convenience offered by early breakfast timings, which is particularly beneficial for those catching early flights or attending events at the nearby NEC.

In summary, while there are areas for improvement such as expanding the vegan and vegetarian hot options and ensuring greater consistency in food temperature and availability, the overall feedback on breakfast at this hotel leans positively, celebrating both the quality and variety of the offerings.

Dinner
The dinner experience at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, has received a mix of reviews with varying levels of satisfaction. Many guests enjoyed their meals, describing the food in the bar and restaurant as lovely, good and even excellent in some instances. Tasty evening meals and good drinks options are highlighted by several diners with the curry dishes receiving specific praise.

Despite these positive notes, the limited menu and high prices were common concerns, indicating some dissatisfaction with value for money. Service levels appear inconsistent with reports of poor service, long waiting times and occasional understaffing issues. Instances of the kitchen closing early or running out of food also contributed to a less than stellar dining experience for some visitors.

For those seeking alternatives, the Little Owl pub next door emerged frequently as a popular option, praised for its excellent service, good food and pleasant atmosphere, albeit at a higher price point. The hotel's dinner offerings, while adequate for a lazy evening, may fall short for those seeking a more extensive selection or higher quality. Overall, while the hotel manages to provide a convenient dining option, the neighboring pub often stands out as the superior choice for a satisfying meal.

Rooms
The guest reviews for the rooms at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, reflect a generally positive experience with some recurring concerns. Many guests praised the rooms for being clean, comfortable and well-equipped. The hotel’s modern facilities and stylish décor were often highlighted, along with the spaciousness of some rooms which catered well to the needs of families and solo travelers alike. Reviews consistently mentioned the beds being comfortable and the overall ambiance of the rooms being welcoming.

However, the size of the rooms appeared to be a common issue with many guests finding them too small and cramped, especially the bathrooms. Some rooms were also considered dated and in need of refurbishment with issues like broken fixtures, old furniture and inadequate lighting noted in certain instances. Noise from adjacent rooms or corridors was mentioned occasionally, as was the ineffectiveness of temperature control in some units.

Despite these drawbacks, the general consensus indicates that the hotel rooms meet basic needs well, providing a satisfactory stay for those visiting NEC or needing a convenient overnight stop. Positive remarks about cleanliness, essential amenities and the helpfulness of hotel staff complement the overall impression, making it a decent choice for travelers who prioritize functionality over luxury.

Beds
Reviewers of the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, have mixed feelings about the beds. Many guests appreciated the comfortable, spacious and clean beds, praising the bedding and the variety of pillows available. They particularly enjoyed the fluffy duvets and reported having a great night's sleep on beds that were often described as very comfortable.

However, some guests found the mattresses to be either too firm or too soft, which detracted from their experience. Comments about small double beds and uncomfortable sofa beds were noted with some finding them lumpy or hard. A few guests felt that the mattress quality could be improved as some were described as old, undersized or even dirty on occasion.

Overall, while a significant number of reviewers were pleased with the comfort of the beds, others felt there was room for improvement in mattress firmness and bed size.

Cleanliness
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC is frequently praised for its impressive cleanliness standards. Guests consistently describe the rooms as very clean, tidy and well-equipped. Both the hotel and its rooms are often referred to as modern and welcoming, contributing to a comfortable stay. Many mention that the communal areas, bathrooms and lobby are also kept very clean, adding to the overall positive impression of the environment.

The staff's efforts in maintaining the hotel are noticeable with remarks about the immaculate state of both rooms and public spaces. Guests also highlight the spotlessly clean rooms and the consistent upkeep by housekeeping. The clean and comfortable rooms, coupled with the hotel's cleanliness, make it a reliable choice for visitors.

However, there are occasional negative remarks about the cleaning standards. A few guests have noted specific issues such as less-than-clean bathrooms, dusty areas and neglected hallways. Despite these isolated incidents, the overwhelming majority of reviews commend the hotel's superior cleanliness.

In summary, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC stands out for its clean and modern accommodations, well-kept communal areas and overall welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic experience for its guests.

Staff
At the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, guests consistently rave about the exceptional quality of the staff. Descriptions such as friendly, helpful and welcoming are common, painting a picture of a team dedicated to superb customer service. Guests appreciate the staff's attentiveness and their willingness to go above and beyond. Individual staff members are often singled out for their outstanding contributions with names like Naz receiving high praise for exceptional service.

The reception staff stands out for their efficiency and professionalism, ensuring check-ins are smooth and problem-free. The restaurant team is mentioned repeatedly for their friendliness and prompt service, enhancing the overall dining experience. Many reviewers note that the staff’s warm demeanor and helpful nature make their stay more enjoyable and stress-free.

However, there are occasional mentions of disorganization and instances where the staff seemed stretched. Despite these minor setbacks, the overwhelming majority of reviews speak positively about the hospitality and kindness displayed by the hotel staff.

Overall, the team at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC is a key highlight for many guests, contributing significantly to the positive experiences and high satisfaction levels reported by visitors.

Wi-Fi
At the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, guests have generally found the wifi service satisfactory with many highlighting it as good, quick and functional. Those staying for business particularly appreciated the strong internet connection, which enabled smooth working conditions. Free wifi is another advantage that guests found beneficial during their stay.

However, several reviews mention areas of improvement. Issues such as weaker wifi signals in certain rooms and minor connectivity problems were noted. Additionally, there were remarks about non-functional USB charging points near beds in some rooms, which could be inconvenient for guests needing to charge their devices.

Despite these few drawbacks, visitors praised the friendly reception and dining staff, which contributed to a positive overall experience.

Parking
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC offers the convenience of onsite parking, but it comes with a notable downside: the cost. Many guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the additional parking fee, which currently stands at £12 per 24 hours. Some reviews highlight that this charge is not prominently communicated at the time of booking, leading to unwelcome surprises upon arrival.

Several guests feel that the parking fee is too steep, especially for hotel patrons and suggest it should be complimentary or at least reduced. There's also mention of confusion regarding the parking payment system and occasional issues with the parking machines. Despite these concerns, the parking area itself is described as safe and secure and guests appreciate its ease of use.

While the parking cost is a common complaint, the hotel's ideal location for those driving to events at the NEC, along with its secure and accessible parking facilities, still make it a practical choice for many travelers. However, the overall sentiment suggests that potential guests should be prepared for the additional parking expense and consider it when budgeting for their stay.

Family
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, appears to be a solid option for families traveling with kids. Many guest reviews highlight the hotel's quiet and clean rooms, which are appreciated, especially by those staying with children. The family rooms tend to be larger than standard ones, accommodating the needs of families with kids and providing extra beds and pillows.

The hotel is commended for its child-friendly atmosphere and services. Families found it reassuring that the environment felt safe, which is an added benefit for solo female travelers. Guests noted the low noise levels, which contributed to a peaceful stay, although there were occasional disturbances from noisy neighboring families or children in the bar area.

The staff's friendliness and attentiveness to children further enhance the family-friendly reputation of the hotel. Special touches, like the availability of travel cots and additional beds, add to the comfort and convenience for families with young children.

While some reviews mention limited space and the absence of interconnected rooms for larger families, others find the room sizes perfect for a standard family of four. The hotel's breakfast offerings and options, including easy access to takeaway for kids, received positive mentions.

Overall, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC seems to be a reliable and comfortable choice for families planning a visit with its safe environment and accommodating facilities making it a frequent recommendation for repeat family trips.

3 Star
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, offers a reliable three-star experience that meets the expectations of a typical big chain hotel. Guests consistently noted the good quality of the hotel’s standards, services and clean surroundings. It provides a fair price for its location, making it a strong contender for a value-for-money stay.

The facilities are in line with what one might expect from a traditional English hotel of this category, offering a basic but sufficient range of amenities. There's limited hot breakfast options, typical of a pub-bar type meal, but overall, the dining experience is standard for this level. While the shower pressure and room size may not have exceeded expectations, they were deemed adequate for a three-star level.

The standout aspect of this hotel, as repeatedly highlighted by guests, is the great value for money it offers. The staff, especially Craig, were often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, further enhancing the overall experience. For travelers needing a budget-friendly option close to the Birmingham NEC, this hotel is a fine choice for a short stay, providing all the basics of comfort and convenience expected from a three-star establishment.

Business
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, consistently receives high marks for meeting the needs of business travelers. The hotel is praised for its comfortable and clean accommodations, providing good value for the cost. Its functional and standard facilities are highlighted as suitable for business purposes.

The hotel's location is key, especially for guests attending conferences or visiting nearby business sites. Proximity to the airport is another significant advantage, making travel logistics convenient for those flying in or out for business. Ideally situated near the NEC, it offers great connectivity and is perfect for meetings and working trips.

The Hotel offers various amenities that cater directly to business users, such as a spacious room with a small business desk, a business center available for use and a meeting room equipped with modern facilities. For added convenience, there is an efficient taxi service, although the lack of a shuttle bus was noted by some guests.

While the hotel boasts an ideal setting for business travelers with helpful and friendly staff, a few drawbacks were mentioned, including poor air conditioning, occasional malfunctioning lifts and a lack of specific business facilities. Nevertheless, the overall experience is positive with many strongly recommending it for business stays due to its convenient location and practical amenities.

Accessible
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC offers a range of amenities catered to guests with disabilities. Many reviews highlight how accessible the rooms are and appreciate the comfortable accommodation provided for elderly and disabled guests. The hotel's location is praised for its convenience, particularly for those attending events at the NEC. Guests mention that the rooms designed for accessibility are spacious, functional and include necessary features such as emergency bells. The ground floor rooms and easy access to the restaurant area also contribute to the hotel's overall accessibility.

However, some guests experienced issues with the lifts, noting that they were not operational during their stay, which created challenges for access. Additionally, there were some remarks on the limited number of accessible rooms and minor inconveniences like the bright green light on the air conditioning unit and the lack of plug sockets by the bedside table.

Overall, while there are some areas for improvement, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC generally receives positive feedback for its efforts to accommodate guests with disabilities, ensuring their stay is as comfortable and accessible as possible.

Dog Friendly
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG, is highly appreciated for its dog-friendly amenities and services. Guests repeatedly highlight the hotel's accommodating nature towards dogs with many describing it as a very dog-friendly environment. The hotel's staff is commended for being friendly and welcoming not just to the guests but also to their dogs.

Particularly appreciated by guests attending events at the nearby NEC, the dog-friendliness of the hotel is seen as a significant advantage. Some guests mention special touches like doggy bags for Crufts attendees, which are considered thoughtful and indicative of the hotel's dedication to pet-friendly service.

However, there are some points of contention regarding the size of the rooms, as some guests find them too small to comfortably accommodate both their dogs and the beds. Additionally, the hotel does charge a fee for dogs, ranging from £20 to £50 depending on the arrangements and number of dogs, which some guests perceive as pricey.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains positive with many guests finding the hotel to be a welcoming and convenient option for those traveling with dogs.


No, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG.

Yes, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire

Yes, parking facilities are available at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG.

No, Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC by IHG doesn't have a gym.

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