Today’s article is by regular reader contributor, Graham.
In this post:
Hotel Indigo Coventry
Opened in early 2024, the 101 room Indigo hotel brand has arrived in Coventry, courtesy of IHG. Conveniently situated close to the railway station and adjacent to a multi story car park which has an arrangement with the hotel for discounted parking the hotel is also a short walk from the city’s cultural attractions including Coventry Cathedral, Coventry Transport Museum and the Herbert Art Gallery.
No two Indigo hotels are the same with the Coventry hotel being no exception taking inspiration from the clock making and bicycle industries that were based in the city, with even a montage on the ground floor which honours the successful Two-tone record label which launched the careers of The Specials and The Selector.
Arrival
On a busy Friday afternoon where the heavy traffic on my journey would have shaken the calmest person, it was a delight to be welcomed by the friendly staff; the loading bay outside the hotel was a huge plus for unpacking the car too.
Smartly dressed in matching uniforms the amenable staff gave an air of importance and elegance – not that they were stuffy – quite the opposite, throughout my stay they did their utmost to accommodate any requests and were able to answer any queries.
An Austin-Healey 100-6 sits proudly alongside the reception area, the striking two-seat sports car cannot fail to capture your attention as you enter the hotel, the car was initially produced at the Healey car company in nearby Warwick.
The Rooms
As with all the Indigo hotels, the rooms take inspiration from the city that they are based, the floor my room was located on was based on the theme of Lady Godiva.
Rooms range from the Standard and Premium rooms up to the Suite room. Situated on a light and airy corner of the hotel my Suite room had a homely feeling, uncluttered and well apportioned the large room came with a luxury Hypnos bed, smart TV, safe, free Wifi, complimentary still and sparkling water, artisan snacks, tea and coffee making facilities.
The complimentary soft drinks and cans of beer also included tonic water and Peeping Tom gin. As the legend goes Tom, unable to resist the urge, gazed upon the naked Lady Godiva as she rode horseback through the streets of Coventry in protest at her husbands tax burden he has placed upon the citizens of the city.
The television, mounted on a swivel arm meant that you could view your favourite programmes from the cosy settee as opposed to watching them from the bed.
The writing desk came with an ergonomic chair that was exactly at the right height to complete any work on a laptop or tablet. Pleasing too to discover that the room had plenty of USB ports and electrical sockets. The lighting system meant that the Suite could be fully lit or dimmed down to suit your mood.
The Bathroom
With two washbasins, Biology toiletries, a powerful rain shower and one of those Roll Top baths that you have to be physically fit to get in and out of. Interestingly the napkin holder was full, usually after using two sheets the holder is empty, not so here. The electric shaving points were an added facility, some establishments seem to think that guests either use battery operated devices or go for a wet shave. The plentiful supply of quality fluffy towels added to the ambiance of the bathroom.
The Restaurant
The hotel features ‘Cogs Restaurant & Bar’ which celebrates the amazing growers’ and producers in Warwickshire and the British Isles. The kitchen is open and fully integrated, allowing the Chefs to be a part of the diner’s experience.
The Bar, with 100 seats, is both stylish and captivating, creating the perfect atmosphere for pre and post-dinner drinks from the Lady Godiva bar. Named after the watchmaking in Coventry you might discover one or two clocks catching your eye whilst dining in the restaurant.
The evening menu includes Pan Fried Sea Bass, Mature Steak Burgers, Fish and Chips and succulent steaks. Service was attentive without being intrusive. Breakfast is also served in the restaurant which is presented buffet style including the traditional English breakfast alongside a continental breakfast including a Gluten Free section. Having coffee and tea served at the table was a thoughtful touch, preferable to having to queue in line at a hot drink dispenser.
The Gym
After all this indulgence at the restaurant, you might be inclined to visit the gym which includes cardio and weight equipment.
Conclusion
Hotel Indigo Coventry is an excellent four-star addition to the city where quality and service appear to be the norm and whilst Coventry might not be an obvious choice for a weekend break, the hotels’ proximity to the many tourist attractions in the area and Coventry itself make the hotel the first choice for staying at, should you be in the Midlands for business or pleasure.
