In our review, we found this Reading hotel to be a solid, no-frills option for travelers on the go. Perched right by the train station, it’s as convenient as they come for exploring the town or zipping into London. The rooms are basic but comfy, with all the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep.
Now, let’s be honest – it’s not the Ritz. The decor won’t win any design awards, and if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this might not be your top pick.
But here’s the thing: for budget-conscious travelers or busy business folks, it’s a real winner. You get a clean bed, a hot shower, and a prime location without breaking the bank.
This place is perfect for train travelers, solo adventurers, or anyone who values practicality over pampering. If you’re in town for a football match or a business meeting at GreenPark, you’ll appreciate the easy access.
Just don’t expect gourmet meals – but hey, you’re in Reading! Get out there and explore the local grub instead.
Good To Know
- Ibis Reading Centre is a 182-room hotel located in the heart of Reading, just a 2-minute walk from the railway station.
- The hotel offers modern amenities like air conditioning, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
- Guests can enjoy a full English/Irish or vegetarian breakfast buffet, an on-site restaurant serving international cuisine, and a bar for drinks.
- The hotel is conveniently situated near the M4 motorway, GreenPark Business Park, and Madejski Stadium, with easy access to London Paddington and Heathrow Airport.
- The hotel has received generally positive reviews, with guests praising the excellent location and friendly staff, though some concerns have been noted about room comfort and hot water issues.
Hotel Overview and Location
The ibis Reading Centre is a well-positioned hotel situated in the heart of Reading, just a 2-minute walk from the city’s main railway station.
This 3-star hotel boasts a 7.8/10 rating based on over 4,000 reviews. Conveniently located near the M4 motorway and just 10 minutes from GreenPark Business Park, the hotel offers easy access to both the city center and surrounding areas.
Guests can reach London Paddington in 30 minutes by train and London Heathrow in the same time, making this an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.
Room Amenities and Features
The ibis Reading Centre’s 182 en-suite rooms feature air cooling, providing guests with a comfortable stay.
All rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, ensuring privacy and convenience.
Free WiFi is available, allowing guests to stay connected during their visit.
The hotel’s daily housekeeping service ensures a clean and well-maintained environment.
For guests with accessibility needs, the hotel offers facilities for disabled guests, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Plus, the hotel provides luggage storage, allowing guests to explore the local area without being burdened by their belongings.
Dining and On-Site Facilities
Guests at the ibis Reading Centre can enjoy a variety of dining options on-site.
The hotel offers a full English/Irish and vegetarian breakfast buffet, providing a hearty start to the day.
The in-house restaurant serves a range of international cuisines, catering to diverse tastes.
Guests can also unwind at the bar, sipping on their favorite drinks.
For a quick bite, the snack bar offers a selection of light refreshments and snacks.
The hotel’s coffee house provides a cozy setting for guests to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
With these amenities, the ibis Reading Centre ensures that guests’ dining needs are well taken care of during their stay.
Nearby Attractions and Transportation
The ibis Reading Centre enjoys a prime location, providing guests with easy access to a variety of nearby attractions and transportation options.
The hotel is just a 2-minute walk from Reading Railway Station, offering convenient connections to London Paddington in just 30 minutes.
For business travelers, the property is a 10-minute walk from GreenPark Business Park.
Sports enthusiasts can reach the Madejski Stadium, home of Reading FC, in less than 5 km.
Plus, the hotel is situated near the M4 motorway, making it easy to explore the surrounding region.
Getting to London Heathrow Airport takes 30 minutes, while Gatwick Airport is accessible within 70 minutes.
Guest Reviews and Experiences
Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the hotel’s key strengths, with guests praising its excellent location, friendly staff, and overall cleanliness.
Travelers consistently commend the hotel’s charming decor, comfortable beds, and quality breakfast.
While some guests report concerns about room comfort and hot water issues, the vast majority of reviews praise the hotel’s value for money.
Notably, the ibis Reading Centre’s prime position near the railway station and major business hubs has proven especially appealing to couples and business travelers.
Booking Information and Policies
Upon arrival, guests can check in from 3:00 PM onwards, with check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Children of any age are welcome, though charges apply for those 13 and older. Pets are allowed, with potential additional fees.
Group bookings of over 7 rooms have different policies. The credit card used for booking must be presented on arrival, as the hotel doesn’t accept cash.
The entire unit is wheelchair accessible, with upper floors accessible by elevator. The hotel accommodates various languages, including English, Spanish, and Hindi.
Safety and Accessibility
Safety protocols have been enhanced at the ibis Reading Centre due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Guests can expect increased sanitation measures throughout the hotel. Construction noise is also expected until November 2022 as the hotel undergoes renovations.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | The entire hotel is wheelchair accessible, and upper floors can be reached by elevator. |
| Payment | Credit cards used for booking must be presented on arrival, as cash is not accepted. |
| Languages | English, Spanish, and Hindi are among the languages spoken by staff. |
| Safety | The hotel has implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols in response to the pandemic. |
| Construction | Guests should be aware of potential construction noise until late 2022 as renovations are underway. |
Languages and Payment Options
The ibis Reading Centre caters to a diverse clientele, with staff fluent in several languages. Guests can communicate in English, Spanish, and Hindi, among others, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of their native tongue.
Payment options at the hotel are also versatile. While cash isn’t accepted, guests can use the credit card used for booking upon arrival. This policy helps maintain security and streamline the check-in process.
Plus, the hotel accommodates group bookings, though different policies apply for reservations of more than seven rooms, ensuring a tailored experience for larger parties.
Questions About Staying Here
Does the Hotel Have a Gym or Fitness Center?
The hotel does not have a gym or fitness center based on the information provided. The key amenities mentioned do not include any fitness facilities.
What Types of Room Views Are Available?
The hotel offers various room views, including city and street vistas. Specific view types aren’t detailed, but guests can expect pleasant surroundings from their accommodations based on the hotel’s central Reading location.
Are There Any Special Packages or Promotions Offered?
The hotel offers special packages and promotions on occasion, such as discounted rates for extended stays or bundled deals including breakfast. Guests should check the website or contact the hotel directly for current offers.
Can Guests Store Their Luggage Before/After Check-In/Out?
Guests can store their luggage before check-in and after check-out at the hotel’s 24-hour front desk. The hotel offers a convenient luggage storage service for travelers who arrive early or depart late.
Is There a Shuttle Service to Nearby Airports or Attractions?
The hotel does not offer an airport shuttle service. However, the hotel is conveniently located near public transportation options, with a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and 30 minutes to London Heathrow Airport.
Worth The Stay
The ibis Reading Centre offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Reading. With its excellent location, modern amenities, and friendly staff, the hotel provides an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers. Whether you’re visiting for work or exploring the local sights, the ibis Reading Centre is an excellent choice for a hassle-free and enjoyable stay in this vibrant city.