Hotel Indigo Newcastle

Occupying a corner plot in the heart of the city, the modern Hotel Indigo stands out among the more traditional buildings that surround it. It has a contemporary style that embraces the city of Newcastle in all its facets. Large wall art behind the front desk celebrates its industrial history, while the lifts are papered with images of the downtown's traditional stone architecture. The lobby is scattered with chairs in brightly colored brushed velvet, embracing both old and new styles. Each floor has a different color on the walls, and a collection of art depicting aspects of the city that's been created by local artists. A similar stylish finish continues in the Marco Pierre White restaurant, where the walls feature photos of the famous chef himself and the large windows overlook the busy city street. All in all, this is a smart hotel with a central location that's popular with a range of travelers, but the majority of guests are young couples on city breaks. 

Hotel Indigo is located right in the heart of Newcastle, just a three-minute walk to Newcastle Central Station, and seven minutes on foot to the city's historic castle. There are restaurants and shops just outside the hotel's front door, plus the O2 Academy -- one of the city's best venues. Top shopping and dining on Northumberland Street or at Eldon Square are both a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Concerts and events at Metro Radio Arena are also easily reached on foot in about 15 minutes. Buses run regularly along Newgate Street, a four-minute walk away, for popular attractions like the iconic "Angel of the North" sculpture in 30 minutes. The Beamish Museum, an open-air history museum, takes around 50 minutes to reach by bus. With the train station so close, it's easy enough to hop on a train to the airport, which take about 30 minutes, or it's about a 20-minute drive. 

Rooms at Hotel Indigo Newcastle have a bold, modern style. Each includes a striking photo mural of local architecture that give rooms their bold look, along with colorful feature walls. The rest of the decor is largely monochrome -- except for color-coordinated curtains and bed runners. Attention to detail is excellent, and all rooms include minibars with free snacks and soft drinks, plus air-conditioning, desks with media hubs, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, electric kettles, safes, irons, and free Wi-Fi. The sleek bathrooms continue the hotel's high-end finish, with large rainfall shower cubicles and high-end Aveda products. Superior Rooms add double sinks. Some Executive and Superior Rooms feature furnished balconies with city views. These rooms also add bathrobes and slippers, and an alcoholic minibar (fees apply). The top room here is the Superior Corner Room, which has a wrap-around balcony and adds nice touches like welcome bubbly and macarons. 

Hotel Indigo has a steakhouse owned by top British chef Marco Pierre White. Breakfast is a buffet with additional hot items available a la carte (fee), and there are lunch and dinner menus. Afternoon tea, light bites, and cocktails are served in the lobby lounge, and room service is available. There's a compact fitness room that includes a handful of cardio machines, plus a cross-trainer, space for free weights, towels, and water. A guest PC and printer is available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. The hotel has a parking garage, but it's worth noting that charges apply, plus it's open for public use and does tend to fill up (especially during the week). Late check-outs are standard for all bookings, but check with the hotel to see if timings work for you.