Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsThe ibis Reading Centre offers an attractive stay for both leisure and business travelers due to its central location in the heart of Reading. Proximity to the main railway station and public transport makes it a convenient base for accessing London, Heathrow and local attractions. The surrounding area is bustling with restaurants, bars, shops, cultural spots and nightlife, ensuring plenty of activities within walking distance. Despite its lively surroundings, the hotel provides quiet, comfortable rooms and is praised for offering excellent value for money.
Breakfast at the hotel is generally well-received, featuring a variety of options that cater to different dietary requirements. Guests appreciate the clean and quiet breakfast area and the early start time for breakfast service, although some critiques exist regarding specific items and the cost. Dinner options are more limited with 24/7 pizza being the primary highlight. While the pizza is appreciated, other food choices and bar offerings receive mixed reviews, pointing out a need for more variety.
Rooms at the hotel are clean, functional and comfortable, suitable for short stays. Guests have praised the spaciousness and modern decor of certain rooms, though some have noted issues with space, natural light and outdated fixtures. Temperature control and noise insulation also present occasional challenges.
Cleanliness is a strong suit for the hotel with frequent positive remarks on room tidiness and the efficiency of housekeeping staff. The hotel's staff contribute significantly to its positive reviews, being commended for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Key individuals like Marta, Tamas and Denise are specifically mentioned for their exceptional service.
Free wifi is available, but experiences vary. While some guests find it good and reliable, others report issues with speed and connectivity, especially in rooms.
Families find the hotel accommodating with good family rooms and amenities. The hotel is also praised for its vibrant and accessible nightlife scene, though this can result in some noise.
Beds at the ibis Reading Centre are generally described as comfortable, contributing to a restful sleep, although opinions on mattress firmness vary. The overall experience aligns with expectations for a budget three-star hotel—modern, clean and providing basic amenities. Business travelers find the location particularly beneficial, though minor inconveniences like the absence of ironing facilities are noted.
In summary, the ibis Reading Centre provides a practical, budget-friendly stay with a clean and comfortable environment, supportive staff and a strategic position for exploring Reading's amenities and nightlife. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Cheap Hotel
Accessible Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Room Types
Double RoomThis room has a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and a work desk. The en suite bathroom has a hairdryer.
Twin RoomThis room has a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and a work desk. The en suite bathroom has a hairdryer.
Double Sweet Room by IbisOffering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. This wheelchair accessible double room has soundproof walls, a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a roll-in shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.8
Good
Location
Located in the heart of Reading, ibis Reading Centre offers an unbeatable central position that is ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Just a few minutes' walk from the main railway station, the hotel provides convenient access to rail and bus links, making it a perfect base for those traveling to or from London and Heathrow.
The central location means guests are never far from key amenities, shopping centers like the Oracle and cultural spots such as the Reading Museum. The hotel is surrounded by an array of restaurants, bars and shops, facilitating easy exploration and dining experiences just steps away. Despite its bustling surroundings, ibis Reading Centre manages to offer a peaceful stay with rooms that are noted for their quietness and comfort.
The proximity to various public transport hubs, including the RailAir bus service to Heathrow Airport, further enhances the hotel's appeal. Many reviews emphasize the convenience of its location, whether for catching an early train or for a night out in Reading. The friendly and professional staff are frequently acknowledged for enhancing the overall experience, making the hotel not just a convenient stop but also a welcoming one.
With excellent value for money, clean and comfortable rooms and an array of nearby amenities, ibis Reading Centre stands out as a practical and strategic choice for visitors to Reading.
Breakfast
Breakfast at the Ibis Reading Centre is generally well-regarded by guests with many finding it to exceed their expectations. Frequent commendations highlight the extensive variety of options, including both hot and cold foods, suitable for various dietary requirements such as gluten-free and vegan choices. The breakfast buffet is often described as rich, delicious and of good quality with particular praise for its value for money.
Guests appreciate the cleanliness and quietness of the breakfast area, along with the friendly and helpful staff. The breakfast service has been noted for starting early, accommodating early risers. While the majority of guests were satisfied with the breakfast, some found certain items like cooked food to be of lower quality or not very fresh. Issues were raised about overcooked or dry items such as scrambled eggs, bacon and black pudding.
There were mixed reviews about the cost with a few considering it too expensive for what was offered. Despite some negative opinions on specific items or overall satisfaction, the prevalent feedback is positive, emphasizing a satisfying range of tasty and plentiful breakfast options that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Dinner
In the heart of Reading, the ibis Reading Centre boasts a unique dining experience that has guests talking, particularly about its pizza offerings. The hotel provides 24/7 availability of pizza with many visitors noting the great taste of the pepperoni and Hawaiian varieties. This round-the-clock pizza service is perfect for quick bites before work or a late-night snack, adding convenience for travelers with diverse schedules.
While the pizza receives high marks, other aspects of the dining experience appear more limited. The food options beyond pizza are sparse with some guests mentioning the lack of variety available for evening meals. Additionally, the bar that doubles as the reception area offers limited snack options and the advertised 24/7 availability of beer on tap sometimes falls short.
The overall food quality is mixed with some guests finding the pizza delicious and others rating it less favorably, especially during late-night hours. Though other dining venues nearby, such as Revolution de Cuba, offer an escape with their vibrant ambiance and delightful cocktails, ibis Reading Centre's focus remains firmly rooted in its pizza.
In summary, if a satisfying slice is what you’re after at any hour, ibis Reading Centre is a reliable choice. However, if a more varied dining experience is desired, it might be worth exploring nearby options.
Rooms
The rooms at ibis Reading Centre are predominantly clean and comfortable, making for a satisfactory stay for many guests. Visitors often appreciate the cleanliness and spaciousness of certain rooms, highlighting their modern decor and functionality. The hotel offers basic but well-maintained facilities, ensuring that essentials such as kettles, basic tea/coffee supplies and functional showers are available. Some rooms even afford spectacular views over the city, particularly from higher floors.
Despite these positives, there are occasional issues that detract from the experience. Problems such as small, cramped spaces, minimal natural light and outdated fixtures have been noted. The bathrooms, often described as plastic pods or akin to airplane facilities, might not suit everyone’s tastes and certain rooms have been reported as too hot or too cold, suggesting inconsistent climate control. Noise insulation could also be better with some guests experiencing disturbances from neighboring rooms.
In summary, while the rooms at ibis Reading Centre are generally clean and functional, providing a decent stay for short visits, a few issues with space, temperature control and occasional maintenance concerns might be a drawback for some guests.
Beds
The beds at the ibis Reading Centre have received a variety of opinions from guests with a majority highlighting the comfort they experienced. Many reviews positively describe the beds as "comfortable", "very comfortable" and "comfy", contributing to a restful night's sleep. Guests appreciated the clean and tidy bedding, as well as the spacious rooms and comfortable temperatures that added to their overall comfort. However, a few guests found the mattresses to be too hard or the pillows to be either too soft or hard, leading to an uncomfortable experience for some. Despite these occasional issues, the general consensus is that the beds at ibis Reading Centre are largely satisfactory and supportive of a comfortable stay.
Cleanliness
ibis Reading Centre garners attention for its consistent cleanliness and comfortable accommodations. Many guests report their rooms being clean, tidy and well-maintained, contributing to an overall pleasant stay. The rooms are frequently described as spacious, modern and spotless. Housekeeping is often praised, although occasional comments highlight areas needing more attention, particularly bathrooms and some communal spaces. Despite isolated incidents of minor dirt and maintenance issues, the hotel's cleanliness generally meets guests' expectations, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a hygienic and comfortable environment.
Staff
When considering a stay at the ibis Reading Centre, guests can look forward to interacting with a team of staff that consistently garners high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. The reception staff are particularly noted for being polite, efficient and welcoming, making the check-in process seamless. Guests frequently commend the overall warm and approachable nature of the staff, highlighting their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
The cleaning staff also receive positive mentions for their courteous behavior, often greeting guests with a smile and providing efficient housekeeping services. Individual staff members, such as Marta, Tamas and Denise, have been specifically acknowledged for their exceptional service and contributions to an enjoyable stay.
While the majority of interactions with the staff are positive, there are occasional mentions of less satisfactory experiences, indicating that not all staff encounters are consistently ideal. However, these instances seem to be rare exceptions rather than the norm.
Overall, the friendly and supportive atmosphere cultivated by the staff at the ibis Reading Centre is a recurring theme in guest reviews, contributing significantly to the hotel's reputation for excellent customer service.
Wi-Fi
The wifi experience at ibis Reading Centre has elicited a range of opinions from guests. Many appreciated the free internet access, describing the wifi as good, reliable and easy to connect to. Several guests noted that the wifi was fast with some experiencing a secure connection. However, there were significant issues reported by others. Common complaints included wifi that was often unavailable, slow or unreliable with frequent disconnections, particularly in the rooms. Some mentioned that the internet connection was poor or down for periods of their stay with a few noting minor but noticeable internet issues. Despite these varying experiences, the hotel has attempted to resolve such issues, though responses have been mixed. Overall, while some guests did find the wifi service satisfactory, there is substantial room for improvement.
Family
The Ibis Reading Centre has garnered positive attention for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a suitable choice for those traveling with children. Many visitors have noted that the hotel is conducive to family stays, providing good family rooms that cater well to the needs of those traveling with kids. Families can expect a comfortable experience with accommodations such as rooms positioned conveniently next to each other for those traveling in larger groups. Overall, the hotel is regarded as a good option for families looking to explore the Reading area.
Nightlife
Nestled right in the heart of Reading, ibis Reading Centre is a prime spot for those looking to plunge into the town's vibrant nightlife. Guests frequently highlight its unbeatable proximity to an array of pubs, bars, restaurants and clubs. The area is bustling with energy and offers a multitude of evening entertainment options, from cultural experiences to lively weekend parties.
The hotel's location is ideal for an evening out and about, providing easy access to numerous nightlife hotspots, including cocktail bars and nightclubs. Many guests appreciated being close to popular spots such as Wetherspoons and the surrounding bars and eateries, making it convenient to meet friends and enjoy the town’s social scene.
However, the central location does come with a caveat. The vibrant nightlife means the area can be noisy, especially during weekends and footie nights with sounds from nearby clubs and pubs permeating the environment. Some mentioned the morning litter and occasional rowdiness from party-goers and younger guests, including instances of loud group activities and less desirable behaviors.
Despite the noise, for those seeking a lively night out and the convenience of stepping right into the heart of Reading’s night scene, ibis Reading Centre offers a strategic and lively spot to experience the town's spirited atmosphere.
3 Star
Ibis Reading Centre offers a reliable and dependable stay typical of an Ibis hotel, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking value. The hotel is noted for its budget-friendly prices, aligning with the expectations of a basic three-star establishment. Guests have commented on the modern layout and convenient location, which is particularly beneficial for short stays, such as overnight stops after arriving from nearby airports.
While the facilities and services are basic, they include all necessary amenities to meet essential needs. The rooms, described as basic but clean and comfortable, ensure a decent night's sleep, though some guests expected more disciplined cleaning. Breakfast has received commendations for being great value for a three-star hotel, even though other recommendations for food options were limited.
The overall experience is characterized by simplicity and functionality, exactly what one would expect from Ibis. It provides good value for money as an economy class hotel, fulfilling the needs of travelers seeking a straightforward and unembellished stay. However, some reviews do mention that the hotel felt closer to one-star in terms of services and accommodations with some likening it to a hostel or university halls. Despite these critiques, for many, the Ibis Reading Centre met their expectations for a hassle-free and economical stay.
Business
The 'ibis Reading Centre' emerges as a professional and business-friendly hotel, often chosen by hospitality consultants and other business travelers for its unbeatable and convenient location. Guests frequently mention its proximity to main offices, the railway station and the city centre, making it ideal for business trips. The hotel also benefits from nearby access to restaurants and pubs, adding to its convenience for those on work travels.
The rooms are noted to be comfortable and equipped with handy business facilities, although some reviews pointed out the absence of an iron and ironing board as a minor drawback for business travelers. Despite this, the overall consensus highlights the hotel as a good fit for work-related stays with quality internet access and an affordable rate, enhancing its appeal to those traveling for business purposes.
While the hotel generally meets expectations for an economical business traveler's needs, it is also noted that noise from other guests can sometimes be an issue. Nonetheless, the 'ibis Reading Centre' continually receives praise for creating a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it a preferred choice for those visiting Reading for work.
Accessible
Nestled in a strategic location, ibis Reading Centre emerges as an accessible gem for travelers with disabilities. Boasting easy access to necessary areas and public transportation, the hotel's convenience is further highlighted by its proximity to the train station, bus stops and a plethora of nearby amenities, including restaurants and pubs.
The accessibility of the reception area, combined with well-designed accessible bathrooms and the option for upgrading to larger disabled rooms, underscores their commitment to inclusivity. Staff seem to comprehend the importance of accessibility, contributing to the hotel's inviting and accommodating atmosphere. Additionally, the accessible pricing ensures that the ease of access does not come at a high cost.
While some noted concerns such as the absence of drop-off provisions outside the hotel, lack of handrails in showers and slightly challenging mobility due to slippery bathroom floors, the overall sentiment remains positive. Construction work outside and perceived safety issues might deter some, but the hotel's accessible town location and nearby parking provide alternatives.
The ibis Reading Centre offers great value for money, combining modern accessible facilities with a convenient setting, making it a favorable choice for disabled guests. However, attention to minor improvements could enhance the experience further.
No, ibis Reading Centre doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at ibis Reading Centre.
Yes, ibis Reading Centre welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at ibis Reading Centre.