Apollo Hotel

This hotel, while offering a swimming pool and spa facilities as a notable feature, is frequently described as being in a dated and tired condition, indicating a significant need for refurbishment. Despite this, guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, who are often highlighted as the hotel's strongest asset. The hotel is considered suitable for business travelers seeking a no-frills, functional stay, and its location is convenient for those visiting the nearby hospital. While some aspects of cleanliness and room comfort receive mixed reviews, the dedicated team strives to provide a positive experience. To manage expectations, guests should be aware that the hotel's current state may not align with a typical four-star rating, and it is advisable to confirm specific room amenities upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of leisure facilities, including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room, and gym, which many guests appreciate as a valuable inclusion. While these amenities are generally enjoyed, some visitors note that they appear dated and could benefit from refurbishment, with occasional reports of the steam room or jacuzzi being out of order or cold. The gym is described as basic, and changing rooms are sometimes found to be in poor condition. Wi-Fi connectivity is a recurring concern, with many guests reporting issues with its reliability and speed, particularly in rooms, making it less ideal for business travelers reliant on a strong internet connection. Other in-room amenities like fridges, safes, and sufficient plug sockets near beds are often reported as missing or non-functional.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed, with many describing rooms as dated, worn out, and in need of significant refurbishment. Common complaints include stained carpets, peeling wallpaper, broken furniture, and signs of damp or mould, particularly in bathrooms. Some guests report issues with hygiene, such as dirty shower trays or uncleaned rooms upon arrival. While some find the beds comfortable, others describe them as too soft, lumpy, or having exposed springs, and pillows are frequently criticized for being too bulky or hard. Noise levels are also a concern, with reports of noisy plumbing, street noise, and thin walls leading to disturbances from adjacent rooms or corridors, impacting overall sleep quality.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the hotel's dining options, particularly breakfast, is varied. Many guests find the breakfast to be good, with a decent selection of hot and cold items, and appreciate the convenience of having it available. However, a significant number of reviews describe the breakfast as poor, overpriced, or limited, with items frequently running out or being served cold. Specific dietary requests, such as gluten-free bread, have sometimes not been met despite prior confirmation. The restaurant and bar food also receive mixed reviews; while some praise specific dishes like the Apollo burger, others report issues with food quality, including undercooked or cold meals, and a limited menu. Service in the dining areas can be slow, and the staff are often perceived as understaffed, struggling to manage busy periods.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, especially for guests visiting the nearby hospital, which is frequently cited as a primary reason for staying. It is also noted for its proximity to Basingstoke town center, with easy access to transport links and a bus stop just a few minutes away. The availability of free parking is a significant advantage, with ample space for guests' vehicles. However, the hotel's position near a main road means that street noise can be an issue for some rooms, particularly those with older, less soundproof windows. Despite this, many guests find the overall accessibility and ease of reaching local attractions or commitments to be a positive aspect of their stay.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise, standing out as the most positive aspect of the guest experience. Reviewers frequently describe them as friendly, helpful, polite, and attentive, often going above and beyond to assist guests with requests or resolve issues. The reception staff, bar staff, and breakfast staff are particularly commended for their professionalism and willingness to make guests feel welcome. While some guests report initial delays or issues during check-in, the staff are generally quick to address concerns. Despite challenges such as understaffing or the hotel's dated condition, the team's dedication to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme, with many guests highlighting their positive interactions as a reason for a satisfactory stay.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest reviews is the discrepancy between the hotel's advertised four-star rating and its actual condition, with many guests suggesting it feels more like a two or three-star establishment due to its dated appearance and need for significant refurbishment. Guests should be aware that room cleaning is not a daily service; instead, fresh towels and toiletries must be requested from reception. The hotel also hosts various events, including weddings and Christmas parties, which can sometimes impact general hotel services or noise levels. While the hotel aims to cater to different needs, some guests note strict rules regarding children's access to the swimming pool during certain hours. The overall impression is that while the staff are exceptional, the hotel's infrastructure requires substantial investment to meet modern expectations.