GreyFriars Review

In our review, we found this historic hotel on Colchester’s High Street to be a real gem, just a stone’s throw from the town’s famous castle.

The rooms are classy and comfy, with modern perks like free Wi-Fi and coffee makers. You’ll love the tasty British grub at their restaurant, and the staff bend over backward to make you feel at home.

Now, it’s not all rosy. The central location means you might hear some street noise, especially on weekends.

And if you’re watching your wallet, the prices here might make you wince a bit.

But for history buffs, romantics, or anyone looking for a touch of English charm without sacrificing comfort, this place hits the bullseye.

It’s perfect for couples on a getaway or travelers who want to soak up Colchester’s rich past while enjoying some pampering.

Good To Know

• GreyFriars is a hotel located on High Street in Colchester, UK, within a 656-foot walk to the historic Colchester Castle.
• The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and an on-site restaurant serving British cuisine, catering to various dietary needs.
• Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, and private bathrooms with free toiletries, while some rooms offer cozy seating areas.
• GreyFriars is praised for its elegant accommodations, exceptional service, and tranquil central location, providing easy access to nearby attractions.
• The hotel has high staff ratings for friendliness, professionalism, and well-maintained facilities, contributing to an overall positive guest experience.

Location and Proximity

GreyFriars is conveniently situated right along the High Street in the historic town of Colchester, United Kingdom.

The hotel is just a short 656-foot walk from the impressive Colchester Castle and approximately 3.7 miles from the popular Colchester Zoo.

Guests can also easily access other nearby attractions, including the scenic Flatford, which is about 6.8 miles away, and the Colchester Institute, just 0.7 miles from the hotel.

For those arriving by air, London Southend Airport is located 24 miles from the property.

GreyFriars’ prime location offers guests the perfect balance of convenience and exploration.

Accommodation and Amenities

Upon entering the GreyFriars, guests are greeted by a range of modern amenities and facilities. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and parking, making it convenient for both business and leisure travelers.

Guests can enjoy British cuisine at the on-site restaurant or relax in the garden and sun deck. The rooms feature flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, and private bathrooms with free toiletries, while some rooms offer a cozy seating area.

For those with special needs, the hotel provides facilities for disabled guests and room service. The hotel’s breakfast options cater to diverse dietary preferences, including continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.

Room Features and Facilities

The guest rooms at the GreyFriars offer a range of modern features and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV and a coffee machine, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite shows and beverages.

The private bathrooms come with free toiletries, and some rooms even feature a cozy seating area. Guests can also take advantage of the room service and the on-site restaurant, which serves British cuisine.

With its well-appointed accommodations and thoughtful amenities, the GreyFriars provides a relaxing and enjoyable experience for its visitors.

Dining and Culinary Offerings

While the hotel’s accommodations provide a comfortable and relaxing retreat, the on-site restaurant at the GreyFriars offers guests a delightful culinary experience.

Serving up a menu featuring classic British cuisine, the restaurant utilizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft mouthwatering dishes.

Breakfast options range from a full English to vegetarian and gluten-free selections, ensuring all dietary needs are catered to.

In the evenings, the restaurant transforms into a cozy setting for guests to savor their meals, complemented by a well-stocked bar.

Whether grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a leisurely dining experience, the GreyFriars’ restaurant promises to satisfy the palates of all who visit.

Guest Experiences and Highlights

Guests have consistently praised GreyFriars for its elegant accommodations and exceptional service. Many have highlighted the upgraded rooms and spacious suites, which feature beautiful bathrooms and complimentary mini-bars.

Visitors commend the hotel’s tranquil yet central location, allowing easy access to nearby attractions. The staff’s high-quality service and the elegance of the facilities have also received common praise.

Guests appreciate the hotel’s attention to detail, from the well-appointed common areas to the delicious breakfast options. Overall, GreyFriars has consistently delivered an exceptional guest experience, earning strong reviews across various aspects of the hotel’s operations.

Policies and Booking Details

Booking a stay at GreyFriars is straightforward, with check-in from 3:00 PM and check-out until 11:00 AM. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, while a £50 damage deposit is required upon arrival and refunded at check-out. Children of all ages are welcome, with charges for extra beds and cribs. Pets are allowed on request, subject to availability and potential fees.

Staff Ratings and Evaluations

The staff at GreyFriars receives high praise from guests, with ratings that reflect the hotel’s excellent service. The staff is rated 9.3 out of 10, indicating their friendliness, professionalism, and responsiveness to guest needs.

The facilities at the hotel are also highly rated at 9.1, highlighting the quality of the amenities and common areas. Cleanliness is a particular strength, with a score of 9.4, ensuring a comfortable and well-maintained stay.

Guests appreciate the hotel’s value for money, with an 8.7 rating in this category. Overall, GreyFriars’ staff and facilities contribute to an exceptional guest experience.

Additional Information and Requests

Eligible guests can take advantage of the Genius discount program offered by GreyFriars.

The hotel’s staff is highly rated, with scores of 9.3 for staff, 9.1 for facilities, 9.4 for cleanliness, and 9.3 for comfort. While the value for money is rated 8.7, the overall experience is positive.

Guests should be aware that special requests must be communicated in advance and may incur additional charges, subject to availability.

The hotel accommodates guests of all ages, and pets are allowed upon request, though fees may apply.

GreyFriars offers a range of languages spoken by its staff to cater to international travelers.

Questions About Staying Here

Is There a Shuttle Service Available to the Airport?

There is no shuttle service available from the hotel to the airport. Guests will need to arrange their own transportation, such as a taxi or public transportation, to reach the nearest airport, which is London Southend Airport, located 24 miles away.

Can the Hotel Accommodate Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?

The hotel can accommodate early check-in or late check-out requests, though they’re subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Guests should communicate any special needs in advance to the hotel staff.

What Is the Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurant?

The restaurant at this hotel has a relaxed dress code. Guests are welcome to dine in casual attire, as the hotel does not enforce any strict dress requirements. Smart casual wear is generally sufficient for dining on-site.

Are There Any Fitness or Wellness Facilities on the Property?

The hotel doesn’t have any dedicated fitness or wellness facilities on-site. However, it does offer a garden and sun deck area where guests can relax outdoors.

Is There a Laundry Service or Self-Service Laundry Available?

The hotel provides a laundry service for guests’ convenience. Self-service laundry facilities are not available on-site, but the hotel staff can assist with arranging laundry pickup and delivery.

Worth The Stay

The GreyFriars hotel offers a refined and tranquil escape in the heart of historic Colchester. With its prime location, impeccable service, and delectable dining options, the hotel caters to every need of discerning travelers. Guests can expect a memorable stay, whether seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a convenient base for business. The GreyFriars hotel promises a blend of history, comfort, and modern convenience.