It’s been years since I visited Liverpool, and I reckon it’s about time I come back. I was leaning towards the Doubletree hotel at the beginning, but then it turned out that although the hotel has a great pool and spa, all guests have to pay £25 per person per visit which is too steep.
Therefore I’ve chosen the Crowne Plaza instead, which has a riverbank location, a club lounge and a swimming pool. According to recent reports, Diamond members are being granted club lounge access and free breakfast, which also weighed in my decision process.
The hotel sits on the Princes Dock, which is about 15-20 minutes walk from the Lime Street station. It’s ideal for a stroll by the river, or visit to the museums (for example the Tate).
The lobby features a glass ceiling, which presents it like a greenhouse when it’s sunny.
Check-in is quick. I’m asked to choose a welcome amenity between points, drinks voucher or breakfast. Besides that there’s no greeting, no breakfast hours, no introduction to the hotel facility and no smile. It appears to me that the staff aren’t happy working here and not friendly to the guests.
Contrary to what I read online, although Diamond members can choose breakfast as a welcome amenity, club lounge access is not offered unless you have the annual lounge pass. The manager explains that they were all confused by the new rules at the beginning and offered club lounge access to Diamond members by mistake. Oh well, this is the first time I’m refused lounge access at a Crowne Plaza hotel, so the new IHG policy is not all good.
I’m upgraded to a King Premium Club room with River View, but since I’ve no lounge access the main difference it has over a standard room is just the river view.
The room is okay, just about an average four-star hotel you anticipate in this country.
River Mersey from the window.
Somehow the bathrobe is missing from my room – I thought it’s not provided (which is common in the UK) but then see other guests wear them. After request it’s brought to my room.
The wellness centre is located on the ground floor. I was worried that it may only have a swimming pool, but gladly the jacuzzi, sauna and steam room are not missing.
I’m not sure how amazing the Doubletree’s spa is, but I’m quite happy with what I have here already. Like many hotels the pool becomes quite busy in the evening, so it’s best to come here during the day.
There’s a gym with river view on the first floor.
Breakfast is served in the restaurant in the form of a buffet.
The quality is decent. I quite enjoy the salami, hash brown and pork sausage.
Club lounge is right by the lobby. Surprisingly, I’ve gone past it numerous times during my three-night stay, and I’ve never seen a single person in the lounge at any time.
The stay posted as non-qualifying. It’s not the first time it happened to me but previously it was all because I booked a special rate (partner discount or Ambassador BOGOF), whereas this time I booked a normal Advance rate. I only need to submit a claim to get it rectified, but it’s very annoying and I’m not sure if the hotel is trying to save money by not posting the points or what.
I think it’s a solid Crowne Plaza given its location and facilities, but the service still leave much to be desired.
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