As one of the most popular 'staycation' spots in the UK, it's no surprise more hotels have been opening in Bristol to accommodate the many people who want to explore all the incredible sights and experiences the city has to offer.
Among the less traditional is Moxy Bristol, part of the Marriott chain, which has been welcoming guests since May of this year. The Moxy brand has more than 100 branches internationally, and pitches itself as a "playground that attracts fun hunter travellers" where guests are encouraged to "hang out and turn up the volume" or play games in the lobby.
The quirky hotel along Newfoundland Street, which took years to build, finally opened its doors this year aiming to offer both comfort and fun, with an open-plan seating area, cocktail bar and games zone making for a 'more social' vibe. Guests are even welcomed into the establishment with a drink on the house when checking in, as well as free WiFi and Chromecast TVs in each room.
READ MORE: New Lidl store opens in historic Broadmead site
Many people passing the unusual copper-coloured exterior will be curious as to what a stay there is like - and visitors have not disappointed with the detail in their feedback for anyone thinking of staying over. Hundreds of online reviews have been left on various review sites, detailing guests' first impressions and opinions.
It's gained rave reviews on Google with an overall rating of 4.5 stars, while on TripAdvisor reviews have been more mixed with a score of 3.5. stars out of five. One of the first people to stay back in May 2022 wrote: “This is a new modern "hip" hotel in the centre of Bristol.
"A short walk from the Cabot Circus car park which is the closest to the hotel. The scent in the foyer was light and inviting, the welcome from the front desk was warm and welcoming.
"The room was clean & tidy. Lots of charging points & a smart TV. Only downside was the aircon which didn't appear to be working. The room got very hot overnight, but this was reported & this being a new hotel only a tiny hiccup. Breakfast had everything you would expect. Checking out was easy & we got a 30% discount on parking too. Everyone was very friendly & approachable. Would definitely recommend & come back again.”
A second reviewer concurred: “A trendy hotel with great staff. We were offered a free cocktail on arrival and enjoyed sitting in the bar area drinking and chatting. Rooms were spotless and nicely appointed. Bed was very comfortable. Bathroom was a bit small but had adequate and ample hot water. Breakfast was good with plenty of choice but plates were tiny and not enough room to serve yourself while others queued behind.
“Could do with a tray rail. Overall, I loved it. Staff were happy, friendly, smiley and very helpful. Reasonable price too for a Saturday night in Bristol. 20 minutes walk to Watershed area or £10 in a taxi. Would definitely stay there again.”
On the other hand, there was also feedback from those who had hoped for more. On TripAdvisor, there were a range of reviews - with one user describing it as a “pricey hipster” place.
Another user called out Moxy for being “a Travelodge with a funky name”, and was not impressed with the more casual vibe. They fumed: “Worst hotel in Bristol. Ugly looking situated on a very busy road in a dodgy area and a long way from the harbourside area. Hotel has no proper reception desk so you have to do your business on the side of a bar with no privacy.
"They take £10 per room per night extra on top of your bill. Hotel staff are not dressed professionally but wear scruffy trainers, jeans, tshirts and hoodies with no id badges so you wouldn't even know who the staff are. Staff were quite rude and abrupt or just ignored you.
"Little selection of hot food and buffet regularly empty. Not enough tables to sit down for breakfast. Housekeeping staff came in the room while I was in, which would be totally unacceptable for female guests with male housekeepers. Expected more from a chain hotel but felt just like a Travelodge which was trying to be a funky hipster place.”
A third user was annoyed about the hotel's position "next door to a noisy motorway" and alleged they saw "open drug dealing/red light district behind the hotel”.
Another guest, who could see pros and cons of the location, wrote after a stay during opening week: "Very cool hotel and all very new and shiny. Room was nice although it faced a busy main road and was not adequately sound-proofed.
“I was also kept awake until 1am by a dull bassy music sound which I first thought must be a nearby bar or something. This went on for some time so I decided to get dressed and ask at reception for some advice.
“It was only then I realised the music was coming from reception. The music was on very loud and like a nightclub - ridiculous! I asked for it to be turned off to which they obliged. I shouldn't have had too really.”
However, others praised Moxy as a “pretty funky hotel” that had taken them by surprise with its “colourful, trendy” aesthetic and as well being “a lovely move away from traditional stuffy hotels.” Another user added: “From management to the staff members at the reception and bar, there was nothing but warm welcomes and positivity. I have now stayed at the Moxy 4 times, and each time I have gotten perfect service!
“It is one of the most modern hotels I’ve stayed at and has a really quirky yet sleek aesthetic. It is also affordable especially considering its convenient location. If you’re going to Bristol, stay at the Moxy!”
Which hotel do you recommend to friends when they're visiting Bristol? Let us know in the comments below
READ NEXT
