With an important business meeting planned south of the water early one morning, Holiday Inn Washington provided the perfect opportunity for a business stay with my son Jack.
Located just off the A1’s junction 64 and only 20 minutes from Newcastle’s stunning quayside, the hotel’s destination is ideal for any travelling businessperson. With an impressive nine meeting rooms and fantastic working facilities including Wireless Internet and AV equipment, the hotel accommodates for a range of meetings, presentations and conferences, making it the ideal working environment for various events.
Arriving nice and early, we quickly checked into our room and immediately felt relaxed. With the renowned Holiday Inn label, I knew a comfortable stay was in order, so I was delighted by the large bed, flat-screen plasma TV and power shower that was provided. With a few hours graft ahead, the large writing desk, free high-speed internet, comfy desk chair and complimentary coffee facilities also proved very useful.
After a productive afternoon, we decided to take a well-earned break with a drink in the relaxing bar and lounge area. Here, we happened to bump into my old pal and GM Paul Mandeir who informed us of all the unique work that the hotel does as partner of local charity Greenfinger’s. The charity helps children who use hospices in the UK by providing them with beautiful outdoor spaces where they can relax and play with their friends and family. The relationship has led to various fundraising events including cake sales and charity golf days in the hope of making a real difference in the local region. This really demonstrated the great level of care and attention to detail that is provided by Paul and the staff at the hotel.
We then headed to the light and airy Trader’s restaurant for a much-needed bite to eat – it’s not all work and no play, right? With both an à la carte and lounge menu available, there was much choice to sample, with even the option to eat al fresco on the restaurant’s adjacent patio area. Providing traditional hotel fayre, the venue offers comforting English classics, as well as tantalising international dishes, to accommodate for various palates and dietary requirements.
After a perusal of the menu, I decided to kick of proceedings with mouth-watering chicken skewers served with tasty salad, whilst Jack enjoyed the soup of the day, a delicious leek & potato washed down with warm crusty bread. As a curry fanatic, I then tasted Thai green curry, a unique blend of spices accompanied by heavenly naan bread and poppadoms. Meanwhile, Jack savoured 7oz rump steak soaked in tangy peppercorn sauce and served with a traditional mix of mushrooms, tomatoes and chips. Delighted by the scrumptious meal, we also noted the warm and friendly service throughout as the staff were attentive and happy to accommodate to our every need.
Not wanting a fuzzy head for the morning meeting, we unfortunately had to swerve the hotel’s exquisite gin menu, although I must admit this was a challenge with a wide selection of refreshing, fruity drinks on offer. We did however enjoy a serene night’s sleep before a return to Trader’s in the morning for breakfast. Eager to try the award-winning Holiday Inn buffet, we were delighted to sample the continental selection of delicious baguettes, buttery pastries and fresh fruit, before devouring a hearty cooked breakfast. After a wholesome, nutritious meal, we really felt ready for the day ahead.
We then left Holiday Inn Washington feeling extremely relaxed and prepared for a day’s work. Whether you’re a travelling business executive, or simply wanting to try somewhere new, Holiday Inn Washington offers the ideal place.
Holiday Inn Washington can be found at Emerson Road, Washington, NE37 1LB. For more information visit their website www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk or call 0871 942 9084.
