In our review of this Portsmouth hotel, we found a seaside gem with a handy location near the historic Dockyard and shopping at Gunwharf Quays.
You’ll find all the usual chain-hotel comforts: an indoor pool for a dip, a spa to pamper yourself, and a fitness center to work off those fish and chips. The rooms are clean and comfy, and the staff is as friendly as a local pub crowd.
Now, let’s talk turkey. Some guests grumble about hit-or-miss dining at the hotel restaurant, so you might want to explore the local eateries instead.
Also, if you’re looking for a quaint, uniquely British experience, this standardized hotel might feel a bit too familiar.
This place is perfect for travelers who want a reliable, comfortable base with easy access to Portsmouth’s main attractions.
Families will appreciate the pool and proximity to sights, while business travelers can count on the usual amenities.
If you’re okay with a slightly generic atmosphere in exchange for convenience and comfort, you’ll be happy as a clam here.
Good To Know
- The Holiday Inn Portsmouth is located near the sea front and historic Dockyard, offering easy access to maritime heritage and waterfront attractions.
- The hotel features an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and private parking, catering to various guest needs.
- The on-site restaurant, The Warrior, offers a diverse menu with options for halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diners.
- Guests rate the hotel highly for its friendly staff, cleanliness, and comfort, particularly for couples’ trips.
- The hotel is within a 15-minute walk to the Historic Dockyard and 10-minute walk to Gunwharf Quays, providing convenient access to local attractions.
Hotel Overview
The Holiday Inn Portsmouth, an IHG Hotel, sits conveniently close to the sea front and historic Dockyard in the coastal city of Portsmouth.
This well-rated hotel (7.6/10 based on 4,102 reviews) offers a range of amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and private parking.
With its location just a 15-minute walk from the Dockyard and 10-minute walk from the Gunwharf Quays shopping complex, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions.
Couples particularly appreciate the hotel, rating it 8.7 out of 10 for two-person trips.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled near the sea front, the Holiday Inn Portsmouth enjoys a prime location in the heart of this historic coastal city.
Just a 15-minute walk from the renowned Historic Dockyard, and a 10-minute stroll to the bustling Gunwharf Quays shopping complex, the hotel offers convenient access to some of Portsmouth’s top attractions.
Plus, the ferry terminal is only 1 mile away, and Southampton Airport is less than a 30-minute drive, making the Holiday Inn an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
With its strategic positioning, the hotel allows guests to easily explore the city’s rich maritime heritage and vibrant waterfront offerings.
Facilities and Amenities
Beyond its prime location, the Holiday Inn Portsmouth offers guests an array of top-notch facilities and amenities to enhance their stay.
Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor pool, unwind at the spa and wellness centre, or stay active at the on-site fitness centre.
For convenience, the hotel provides private parking (for a fee) and free WiFi throughout.
Those seeking a dining experience can visit the in-house restaurant, The Warrior, which offers a variety of cuisines, including British, Indian, and Italian.
The hotel also caters to families and guests with disabilities, with family rooms and facilities for the latter.
Dining Options
Guests of the Holiday Inn Portsmouth can frequently enjoy a delightful dining experience at the on-site restaurant, The Warrior. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring British, Indian, Italian, and pizza selections, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Diners can enjoy meals throughout the day, from breakfast to dinner, including high tea. The restaurant caters to various dietary needs, providing halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
Some key highlights of the dining experience include:
- Extensive breakfast buffet with continental and full English/Irish options
- Opportunity to savor authentic Indian cuisine
- Freshly baked pizza options
- Delectable desserts and afternoon tea
Guest Reviews and Feedback
Travelers have shared their impressions of the Holiday Inn Portsmouth, providing valuable insights into their experiences. The hotel’s ratings reflect a generally positive guest sentiment, with an overall score of 7.6 out of 10 from over 4,100 reviews. Guests particularly praised the hotel’s staff, who were described as friendly and helpful, as well as the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms. The location was also a highlight, with the hotel’s proximity to the sea front, historic Dockyard, and shopping complex earning an 8.7 rating from couples. However, some guests had mixed reviews about the quality of the on-site dining options.
| Feedback Category | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Staff | 8.4 |
| Cleanliness | 8.1 |
| Comfort | 8.1 |
Room Features
The Holiday Inn Portsmouth’s rooms come equipped with a range of amenities to ensure guests’ comfort.
All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, allowing visitors to unwind and enjoy their favorite shows. Complimentary tea and coffee making facilities provide a convenient start to the day, while the air conditioning ensures a comfortable temperature year-round.
The private bathrooms are a welcomed addition, offering a refreshing reprieve. Guests can also choose rooms with stunning sea views, adding an extra touch of tranquility to their stay.
- Flat-screen TV
- Tea/coffee making facilities
- Air conditioning
- Private bathroom
Policies and Additional Information
Check-in and check-out times at the Holiday Inn Portsmouth are from 3:00 PM for check-in and until 11:00 AM for check-out. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children of any age are welcome, with a cot available for free for ages 0-3 and an extra bed for ages 12+ upon request. Pets are allowed with possible charges. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and a parking permit is available for street parking. The hotel staff can assist with requests in English, German, Spanish, French, Hindi, Italian, Polish, Russian, and Urdu.
| Policies | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | Until 11:00 |
| Cancellation/Prepayment | Varies by accommodation type |
| Children and Beds | Children of any age welcome, cot for ages 0-3 free, extra bed for ages 12+ upon request |
| Pets | Allowed with possible charges |
Getting to the Hotel
The Holiday Inn Portsmouth is conveniently situated, with the historic Portsmouth Dockyard just a 15-minute walk away and the Gunwharf Quays shopping complex only a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Guests can easily access the ferry terminal, which is just 1 mile from the hotel. For those arriving by air, Southampton Airport is less than a 30-minute drive away.
The hotel’s location offers several transportation options:
- Walking to nearby attractions
- Catching a ferry to cross the harbor
- Taking a short drive to the airport
- Utilizing the hotel’s private parking (for a fee)
Questions About Staying Here
Are There Any Ongoing Renovations or Construction at the Hotel?
The hotel recently underwent renovations, with guests reporting new carpets in the rooms. However, there are no indications of ongoing construction or major renovations at this time based on the available information.
What Are the Nearest Major Landmarks or Attractions Within Walking Distance?
The hotel is located close to several notable attractions, including the historic Dockyard just a 15-minute walk away, and the Gunwharf Quays shopping complex, which is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
What Is the Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurant and Bar?
The restaurant and bar do not have a strict dress code. Casual attire is acceptable, with guests free to wear comfortable clothing. Formal or smart-casual wear is not required.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for Guests?
The hotel doesn’t currently offer any special discounts or deals for guests. However, it’s worth checking the hotel’s website or contacting them directly to inquire about any promotional offers that may be available during the dates of your stay.
What Is the Process for Requesting Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, but it’s subject to availability and may incur additional fees. The hotel recommends contacting them directly to inquire about the policies and availability for these requests.
Worth The Stay
The Holiday Inn Portsmouth, an IHG hotel, offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers exploring the historic city. With its prime location, range of amenities, and guest-focused services, this hotel ensures a memorable experience in Portsmouth. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests can enjoy the hotel’s indoor pool, spa, and on-site dining options, all while being within easy reach of the city’s top attractions.