Admiral Inn Hamilton

This hotel offers a convenient stay with its on-site restaurant and ample free parking, making it a practical choice for many travelers. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness, comfortable beds, and the generally friendly staff. However, many reviews highlight a dated appearance throughout the property and significant noise issues stemming from other guests, particularly children. The hotel is well-suited for sightseers and couples seeking a base near local attractions, and while it accommodates families, those with young children should be aware of the potential for a lively atmosphere. To ensure a more tranquil experience, guests are advised to request a room away from high-traffic areas and confirm specific amenities upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
While the hotel provides essential amenities, some aspects are noted as being dated or unavailable. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, though some found the speed inconsistent, and convenient ice machines and vending machines are present. However, the advertised gym is reportedly used for storage, disappointing guests who expected fitness facilities. Some rooms experienced issues with non-functional outlets, and the elevator was occasionally described as glitchy. Additionally, several guests noted the absence of basic in-room amenities such as tissues, shampoo, conditioner, or tea bags, which impacted their overall comfort and convenience during their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, a significant number of reviews point to a dated appearance throughout the property, with some areas showing wear and tear. A recurring concern is the presence of unpleasant odors, including musty smell, smoke smell, and even hints of mold around windows and vents, particularly in hallways and some rooms. Other issues reported include noisy AC units, cold drafts from poorly sealed windows, leaking tubs, clogged sinks with mold or coffee grounds, and visible dirty carpets or cigarette burns on toilet seats. Many guests also noted that windows could not be opened, limiting fresh air circulation.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site restaurant receives considerable praise from guests, often highlighted as a major positive. Many commend the diverse menu and the overall food quality, with the breakfast being particularly popular for its variety and taste. The schnitzel is frequently mentioned as a standout dish. While the restaurant staff are generally described as pleasant, some guests experienced slow service, especially during busy periods, and a few reported receiving cold food. It is important to note that breakfast is typically not included in the room rate, which surprised some guests who had filtered for this amenity during booking.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location that is easily accessible just off the highway, making it convenient for travelers. Its proximity to local landmarks like Dundurn Castle and a large park is a significant advantage, offering opportunities for sightseeing and recreation. Guests also appreciate the availability of free parking and the convenience of nearby public transport options and a shopping mall. However, ongoing construction in the area can make access challenging, and the hotel is situated on a busy intersection, which can contribute to noise. Furthermore, the main entrance features steps, posing an accessibility challenge for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receive high praise for being friendly staff, helpful, and attentive service, with many guests highlighting their willingness to go above and beyond. The quick check-in process is frequently mentioned as efficient and welcoming. However, there are notable instances of negative feedback, particularly concerning rude staff at the front desk, which has led to significant frustration for some guests. Issues with poor communication regarding booking details and the handling of security deposits have also been reported, with some guests experiencing difficulties in receiving timely refunds or clear explanations for charges.

Additional Information
A significant point of discussion among guests is the hotel's security deposit policy, which is often described as higher than expected and has led to concerns about delayed or unreturned funds, with some guests reporting issues even after checkout. The hotel's atmosphere is notably impacted by the presence of displaced families, which, while providing temporary housing, contributes to increased noise levels, particularly from children, and a noticeable presence of smoking in common areas. A 24/7 security guard is on site, which some guests find reassuring, though it also raises questions about the need for such a constant presence. Other miscellaneous issues include rooms being inspected before checkout and unfulfilled requests for wake-up calls or taxi services.