Mercure Charlestown

The hotel offers a memorable stay, particularly noted for its exceptional dining experience, with guests consistently praising the quality of both breakfast and dinner. This is complemented by the friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant visit. Its convenient location near major shopping centers and easy access to the city makes it an ideal choice for various travelers. The hotel is well-suited for couples seeking a relaxing getaway, families due to its spacious rooms and pool, business travelers who appreciate the convenience and good breakfast, and individuals with medical appointments in the area. To enhance your stay, guests recommend requesting a ground floor room if stairs are a concern, and definitely taking advantage of the highly-rated on-site restaurant for dinner.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's outdoor pool as a great feature, providing a refreshing option for relaxation, though some have noted it could benefit from heating or better maintenance. The availability of free outdoor parking directly outside many rooms is a significant convenience, making access easy. While the hotel does not have a lift, which can be challenging for guests with heavy luggage or mobility issues due to the presence of stairs, it does offer a guest laundry facility, which is very handy for longer stays. Rooms are generally equipped with Foxtel channels for entertainment, and some include a mini-bar. However, some guests have experienced issues with air conditioning functionality or noise, and the general appearance of some areas is described as dated.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives mixed feedback regarding room condition and comfort. Many guests praise the comfortable beds and the overall cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms upon arrival. However, a recurring theme is that many rooms are dated or tired, with some areas needing refurbishment. Specific concerns include musty smells in some rooms or hallways, and isolated reports of cockroaches, mould in bathrooms, or spiders. While water pressure in showers is generally good, some bathrooms feature a shower over bath setup, which can be inconvenient for some guests, and a lack of exhaust fans in bathrooms is occasionally noted. Noise levels from adjoining rooms or kitchen vents have also been mentioned as a minor disturbance.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the hotel is consistently a major highlight for guests. The buffet breakfast receives high praise for its variety, freshness, and the option for eggs to order, with many commending the chef. Dinner at the on-site restaurant is frequently described as excellent, with guests enjoying the food quality and specific dishes like pizzas and burgers. Many guests were so impressed they dined there multiple times during their stay. While room service is available and generally well-received, some instances of cold food or delays due to understaffing have been reported. The bar area is also appreciated for its atmosphere and service, though it can be unmanned during busy periods.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, offering convenient driving access to Newcastle and its beaches. It is particularly well-situated within walking distance or a short drive to major shopping centers like Charlestown Square and Westfield Kotara, making it ideal for shopping and entertainment. The provision of free outdoor parking directly at the front of the rooms is a highly valued amenity. However, a notable accessibility concern is the absence of a lift, meaning guests must use stairs to access upper floors, which can be problematic for those with mobility challenges or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight their welcoming demeanor, efficiency during quick check-in and check-out processes, and willingness to provide staff recommendations for local attractions. Many appreciate how staff go "above and beyond" to resolve issues promptly, such as changing rooms or assisting with luggage due to the lack of a lift. Despite some instances of understaffing during peak periods, which can lead to delays in services like room service or restaurant bookings, the overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests with Accor status benefits often appreciate the welcome drink policy and other perks. Some rooms offer a private balcony with pleasant outlooks, and the convenience of having outdoor parking directly accessible from the room is a unique feature. While the hotel provides a guest laundry facility, some guests note the absence of a microwave in the rooms. There have been mentions of a destination fee or surcharges, which some guests found unexpected. The hotel is generally considered a good option for short stays or as a stopover, with its reliable service and comfortable, albeit sometimes dated, accommodations.