Wellington Park Hotel

Located on a busy main street, the Wellington Park Hotel is set in a red brick building that looks more like a school or a hospital from the road than a hotel. There's a large parking lot in front of the building (expect to pay a fee to park). The interiors of the property, especially the common areas, are somewhat drab and outdated. The lobby's lounge area is covered in unattractive orange carpeting and the faux leather armchairs and over-stuffed gray velour-covered sofas look tired and old-fashioned. The hotel can get lively on weekends when the on-site restaurant and bar fills with locals, especially when live music events are hosted here. Many business travelers choose to stay at the Wellington Park Hotel, and it's also used by tour groups in the summer. The hotel is also a popular wedding venue, with close access to the scenic Botanic Gardens. 

The Wellington Park Hotel is located on a busy road in the university district, close to many bars, restaurants, and shops (mostly catering to students). Queen's University Belfast and the Botanic Gardens are within walking distance, and the city center is an eight-minute drive away.

• One-minute walk to Queen's University Belfast
• Five-minute walk to Ulster Museum
• Eight-minute walk to Botanic Gardens
• 12-minute walk to Lyric Theatre
• Six-minute drive to Great Victoria Street Station
• Eight-minute drive to the city center
• Eight-minute drive to Assembly Buildings Conference and Exhibition Centre
• 10-minute drive to Albert Memorial Clock
• 12-minute drive to Victoria Square shopping district
• 13-minute drive to Titanic Visitor Center
• 18-minute drive to George Best Belfast City Airport
• 34-minute drive to Belfast International Airport 

Guest rooms at the Wellington Park Hotel are quite spacious, with simple, uncluttered decor. Floors are covered with wall-to-wall carpeting in shades of beige or gray, and the furniture is simple and functional. All the rooms feature flat-screen TVs, electric kettles for coffee- and tea-making, hairdryers, free Wi-Fi, and iPod docks. The Executive Rooms do not seem to be a significant upgrade, with only bathrobes and mineral water as added amenities. Bathrooms are generally on the small side and equipped with shower/tub combos. Some of the bathrooms in the Standard Rooms reveal dirty grouting in the shower area. Family Rooms with double and single beds are ideal for families traveling together, and extra cots can be provided for free. The Mini Suite has a large bedroom with a DVD player on the ground floor, and a work and living space on the upper floor. Some of the rooms facing the road and the bar area -- as well as those located above function rooms -- are subject to noise that can disturb sleep. Some of the rooms need maintenance and updating, while others feel fresh with updated carpets and bedding. Past guests have complained of torn lampshades, sloppy paintwork, chipped woodwork, and windows that don't close properly. 

Centered on food, drink, and entertainment, features at the Wellington Park Hotel aren't extensive, but they support a social atmosphere. Breakfast is served each morning (for a fee) at the Wellie Bar and Grill restaurant. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and features a heated outdoor terrace. The Wellie Lounge is located in the lobby area and serves drinks and light meals, while the Wellie Bar is popular with locals and often hosts live music events on the weekends and features big screens for live sporting events. The hotel is equipped with 13 basic meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 300 people and includes audio-visual equipment. Parking is available on-site but (unlike many other local hotels) is charged an extra fee. The Wi-Fi connection is free and available throughout the hotel.