Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre

This Crowne Plaza is housed in a five-story nondescript rectangular building that overlooks Princes Dock. Inside, the lobby is spacious and modern, with a domed skylight above that allows in lots of natural light. A tree sits in the middle with seating around it, and sofas and chairs along the walls provide additional places where guests can hang out. A run station in the wide hallway offers towels and water for guests returning from their runs. While the name brand draws plenty of guests, and the nondescript style won't offend anyone, it is a bit bland, especially given its prime riverside location with excellent Mersey River views. However, its convenient location and range of amenities attracts all sorts of travelers, including couples, families, businesspeople, groups, and individuals. 

This hotel is located on a busy street that runs parallel to the Mersey River, right in the heart of Liverpool's city center. It's close to the financial district as well as major tourist sites. It's about a five-minute walk from the James Street train station, which has links to the rest of the city. Guests also can walk to Albert Dock in about 15 minutes, where they will find restaurants, bars, and attractions, including The Beatles Story. For shopping, the Liverpool One complex is just 10 minutes away on foot, and the cruise terminal also is nearby. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is about 30 minutes away by car or 50 minutes by public transportation. Manchester's airport is about an hour away by car.

Rooms are modern and colorful, with bright bed runners and decorative pillows. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, large work desks with convenient power outlets, electric kettles, mini-fridges, and safes. Crowne Plaza's Sleep Advantage System provides premium bedding, aromatherapy kits, and quiet zones. Tiled modern bathrooms come with shower/tub combos, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and toiletries. Some rooms have views of the river -- these are inarguably the best -- and some the city. Guests on the Club floor get extra perks and access to the Club Lounge. Suites add sitting areas with sofas and chairs. 

Features aren't too numerous here, but are a bit more generous than what's found at other city-center hotels in Liverpool. The hotel's restaurant serves international fare for breakfast and dinner, and the casual lounge by the lobby serves lunch and dinner. Guests can dine on the patio in nice weather, and room service is available around-the-clock. The modern Harbour Leisure Club contains an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, gym, and spa. The spacious gym provides cardio equipment as well as free weights, with nice river views out large windows. The hotel has seven meeting rooms. The largest can accommodate up to 500 people, and the staff can take care of details. There's also a staffed business center, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Valet parking is available for a fee.