Hotel Prince Rupert (Shrewsbury, United Kingdom)

Guests mostly loved the relatively peaceful location in the historic heart of Shrewsbury for shopping, dining, parks, transport links and strolling around the attractive town center dominated by Tudor and Georgian architecture. Access by car sometimes proved tricky due to a one-way system – motorists should follow Fish Street from the High Street. As medieval Shrewsbury wasn’t designed for cars parking is difficult but this was remedied by the valet parking option.

Guests mostly reported staff to be friendly, courteous, helpful and swift to handle queries. Most reviewers enjoyed breakfast, saying there was a wide choice of cooked and continental options.

Parts of the structure date back to the 12th century and Tudor times, which many visitors thought gave it a unique and quirky character. Having expanded over the years, it contains some remaining historic features like sloping ceilings, leaning walls and exposed timbers. Some guests liked the old-fashioned ambience, noting the suits of armor and swords on display.

A phased refurbishment is ongoing so guests disagreed on the standard of the rooms because some have been more recently updated than others. Many reviewers liked the refurbished accommodation with its swish bathrooms and well-appointed rooms. However, critics said some of the other rooms were a big difference from the publicity shots. These guests reported small bathrooms with moldy showers, rickety beds on uneven floors, 1970s décor and dirty windows.

Some guests noted further tired features like the gym and occasional plumbing issues. The lack of air-conditioning bothered some visitors while the labyrinthine layout disadvantaged those with limited mobility.

Another drawback of this listed building was the thin walls between rooms which, according to some guests, failed to block out noise from neighbors.