Best Western Plough & Harrow Hotel

This historic hotel offers a distinctive experience, celebrated for its old-world charm and unique character, including a notable connection to J.R.R. Tolkien. Guests consistently highlight the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, the comfortable beds, and the hotel's convenient location near key city attractions. It is an ideal choice for sightseers exploring the city, business travelers attending events or visiting the university, families seeking spacious accommodations, and history buffs appreciating its heritage. To make the most of your stay, consider booking directly with the hotel to benefit from free on-site parking, and be aware that the hotel's historic layout means there is no lift, requiring guests to navigate stairs.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a charming lobby, bar, and lounge areas that reflect its historic character, often adorned with traditional decor. While the common areas are generally well-maintained, some guests note that parts of the hotel, particularly the annexes, appear dated and could benefit from refurbishment. A significant point of feedback is the absence of a lift, which can make navigating the hotel challenging, especially with luggage or for guests with mobility concerns. The Wi-Fi generally receives positive remarks for its reliability. The hotel offers on-site parking, which is secure and barrier-controlled, though its cost can vary depending on the booking method. Additionally, the hotel provides meeting rooms and event spaces, which are appreciated by guests attending functions.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and spacious, with many praising the comfortable beds and quality linens that ensure a restful sleep. However, a recurring theme is the dated decor and tired appearance of many rooms, though some have been refurbished. Bathrooms are often mentioned as needing updating, with some reports of mould, rust, and issues with shower functionality or hot water pressure. A common concern is the room temperature, with many guests finding their rooms too cold, as the heating is centrally controlled by reception and cannot be adjusted individually. Noise levels are mixed, with some rooms being quiet, while others experience street noise or internal disturbances from creaky floors. In-room amenities like coffee and tea facilities are provided, but some guests note issues with TV functionality or the absence of a fridge.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast is a primary focus of guest feedback, generally described as hearty and good quality, offering a variety of hot buffet items alongside continental options like cereals, fruit, and pastries. However, many guests report issues with the replenishment of food items, leading to shortages, especially during busy periods. The breakfast service can be inconsistent, with some staff being very helpful while others appear overwhelmed. Feedback on coffee quality is mixed. A significant point is the hotel's policy of not offering dinner in its restaurant, requiring guests to rely on local eateries or takeaway food, which the hotel accommodates by providing cutlery and crockery. The bar is available for drinks, but extensive food options are not typically offered.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, making it an excellent base for various activities. It is particularly well-situated for those visiting Birmingham University or the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Guests appreciate its easy access to the city centre, including popular areas like the Bull Ring, Broad Street, and the Utilita Arena, often within walking distance or a short tram ride. A tram stop is located very close by, providing efficient public transport links. The hotel also benefits from being near the Botanical Gardens and other attractions like Legoland Discovery Centre and the Sealife Centre. While on-site parking is available and secure, guests frequently mention that its cost can be a point of contention, especially if not booked directly with the hotel.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receive high praise, being described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, and attentive. Many guests highlight their willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, from providing luggage assistance due to the lack of a lift to accommodating various requests, such as extra heaters or addressing hot water issues. The check-in process is generally reported as quick and efficient. Housekeeping is often commended for maintaining clean rooms, though some minor issues with the replenishment of in-room supplies have been noted. The overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to excellent service significantly enhances the guest experience, often compensating for any perceived shortcomings in the hotel's facilities.

Additional Information
A key point for guests is the parking policy, where free parking is offered only when booking directly with the hotel; otherwise, a significant fee is applied, which has caused frustration for some. The hotel does not operate a restaurant for dinner service, meaning guests should plan to utilize takeaway food options from nearby establishments, with the hotel providing necessary cutlery and crockery. The heating control policy is centralized, leading to rooms often being too cold, and guests must contact reception to request temperature adjustments. Due to the historic building and lack of a lift, navigating the hotel with luggage or for those with mobility challenges can be difficult, involving long corridors and multiple staircases. Despite the barrier-controlled car park, some guests have reported car break-ins, raising concerns about security.