Premier Inn Bath City Centre

Premier Inn Bath City Centre is the value pick for a stay in the middle of Bath. The official page places it next door to the Kingsmead entertainment centre and a five-minute walk from the Roman Baths, with the railway station about ten minutes on foot. Rooms include Standard Doubles with a king-size bed, a powerful shower, a desk, tea and coffee facilities and free Wi-Fi, and Premier Plus rooms that add a coffee machine, a mini-fridge, faster Wi-Fi, USB ports and an upgraded workspace. Twin, Family and Accessible rooms are also available. All rooms have air conditioning, which is rare in the city's older hotels. A restaurant serves a build-your-own cooked and continental breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options, dinner and brunch, and up to two children eat free with each adult who orders a Premier Inn breakfast. It is simple, clean and consistent, and rates are usually well below those of boutique and spa hotels.

Location and getting around: the hotel is on the southern side of the centre, close to Southgate shopping centre and the bus station. From there, the Roman Baths and the Abbey are about a five-minute walk, and Thermae Bath Spa is a similar distance, so almost every major sight is within a short stroll. The railway station is about ten minutes away by foot. Because the city is compact, walking suits most itineraries, and the Christmas market streets are close.

The rooms: standard rooms are modern and functional, with a big bed and an effective shower. Families can use the Family room, and the free breakfast for children helps with costs. If you need to work or want more comfort, the Premier Plus category is worth the small extra. Air conditioning can be a real help in summer, though the market is quieter in winter. Noise from the entertainment area can be noticeable at weekends, so ask for a higher floor or a room away from the main road when booking.

Good to know: there is no on-site parking. The hotel's page lists chargeable car parks nearby, the Southgate Shopping Centre car park and the Avon Street car park, so check prices and opening before you arrive, or leave the car at a Park and Ride. Book flexible rates in advance for the Christmas market period, as budget rooms in the centre are the first to go. This is the best option for travellers who spend their days sightseeing and only need a good bed, and it leaves more of the budget for the Roman Baths, Thermae Bath Spa and a Cotswolds day.