It seemed an apt time to visit the Staybridge Suites.
The Newcastle hotel, which has just completed a £1.8 million renovation of all its bedrooms, has been a top choice on Trip Advisor in the city for the past 12 years. It consistently receives the highest marks in the hotel group’s own IHG ratings, and it’s easy to see why.
The hotel – which stands proudly on the city’s Buxton street (five minutes from the city centre) – is managed by the experienced hotelier Lisa Crocker, whose father Neal was also a client many years ago. This personal touch added a layer of history to our visit and as a reminder of my many (many) years in the game!
Pitching up for our first overnight stay of 2025, parking proved a breeze with the 85-berth car park, and we quickly made our way to our guest room.
The recent modernisation project was evident in the sleek, contemporary design of the room. Each suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen and living area, making it perfect for both short trips and extended stays. The kitchen was stocked with all the essentials, and the living area was spacious and comfortable, providing a true home-from-home feel.
A hallmark of the Staybridge Suites experience is the range of amenities available to guests. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures all guests stay connected, while the state-of-the-art fitness studio – for those looking to keep fit on the road – provided the chance to sweat out some of the party pounds.
The laundry facilities were a convenient addition, especially for those on longer stays. The 24/7 reception and Grab and Go Pantry were also incredibly handy, offering snacks and essentials at any hour.
Location is another major advantage. Just a stone’s throw from the Quayside, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the city. We took a leisurely stroll along the Quayside, enjoying the scenic views and buoyant atmosphere, while enjoying a few excellent pints of Vitamin G in the process.
Returning to the hotel, our suite enveloped us in a haven of comfort and style featuring plush bedding, polished wood and heavy drapes ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
The modern bathroom was equipped with high-quality toiletries (enjoyed by Lisa) and swish power shower (enjoyed by yours truly after a morning run).
Throughout our stay, the staff at Staybridge Suites went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed.
Whether it was providing local recommendations to a few unsung local eateries or assisting with any requests, their dedication to excellent service was readily apparent.
Our stay was a perfect start to the new year, and we look forward to returning in the future for business or leisure.
For long-term residents, the hotel even hosts evening socials every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. These events provide an opportunity to enjoy free food and drink while mingling with other guests. It’s a thoughtful touch that fosters a sense of community among the residents.
For us, however, it was back to home and reality. If only we could stay another day!
For more information, visit www.ihg.com/staybridge/hotels/gb/en/newcastle-upon-tyne