Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel

This hotel is highly regarded for its central location, offering unparalleled access to downtown Portsmouth's vibrant attractions, making it a signature feature that defines the guest experience. Its prime position is ideal for sightseers and couples seeking to explore the city on foot, as well as business travelers attending conferences. Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, the hotel's impeccable cleanliness, and the comfortable accommodations. The dining options, particularly breakfast, also receive frequent commendation. For families, the hotel's amenities and walkability make it a convenient base for city adventures. To maximize your stay, consider utilizing the club lounge for added perks and be prepared for parking fees, which are a common point of discussion among visitors.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience. A swimming pool is available, though some guests wished it were larger or cleaner. The fitness center is described as small but well-equipped with modern machines. A notable feature is the club lounge, which provides access to snacks, drinks, and a small breakfast buffet, appreciated by many elite members. The lobby area is spacious, bright, and features a welcoming bar and seating area. Complimentary coffee and tea stations are conveniently located near the elevators in the mornings. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests reported issues with connectivity or speed. The presence of ice machines is noted, though some were found to be out of order.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the hotel's cleanliness, describing rooms as immaculate, spotless, and well-maintained. The beds are consistently praised for being exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, often complemented by soft bedding. Many rooms have been renovated, featuring modern decor, though some guests found certain aspects still dated or the rooms to be on the smaller side. Feedback on noise levels is mixed; while some rooms are quiet, others experienced disturbances from neighboring guests, street activity, or hotel events. Issues with AC units being loud or ineffective were occasionally reported, along with minor maintenance concerns like broken toilet paper holders, peeling paint, or insufficient lighting in the bathroom. Some guests also noted a lack of surfaces for luggage or limited electrical outlets.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive positive feedback, particularly the breakfast service. Many guests, especially those with club lounge access, found the breakfast to be excellent, delicious, and substantial, offering a variety of hot selections like eggs, bacon, sausage, and oatmeal, alongside pastries and fruit. The on-site restaurant is generally well-regarded for its good food quality, diverse menu, and pleasant atmosphere, though a few isolated comments mentioned issues with food freshness. The bar area is a popular spot, known for its good drinks and attentive bartenders, creating a lively social space. Complimentary coffee and tea are also available in the lobby area each morning, adding to the convenience for guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an exceptional central location, making it a primary draw for visitors. Guests consistently highlight its walkability, noting that it is within easy reach of downtown Portsmouth's numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and popular attractions like Market Square and the waterfront. This convenient access allows guests to explore the city's vibrant scene without needing a vehicle. The hotel is also easily accessible from major highways. Parking is a significant topic in reviews; it is available but comes at a cost. Both self-parking in a lot across the street and valet service are offered, with valet being only slightly more expensive. Some guests found the parking fees to be high, while others appreciated the convenience, especially the valet service.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise, being described as amazing, friendly, helpful, pleasant, welcoming, and attentive. Many guests highlighted their professionalism and efficiency, noting that staff members go above and beyond to ensure a positive stay. The check-in process is generally smooth and quick, though some guests experienced delays or issues with room readiness during peak times. Housekeeping is largely commended for maintaining cleanliness, but a few isolated reports mentioned missed service or unexpected entry. The valet service is frequently mentioned as efficient and convenient, with staff being friendly and quick. Overall, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
The hotel features a pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their animals, though a notable fee is typically associated with this service, and some guests found suitable outdoor areas for pets challenging to locate nearby. During the holiday season, the hotel is known for its extensive and impressive holiday decorations, including a life-size gingerbread house, which creates a festive and memorable atmosphere. The property frequently hosts conferences and large groups, which can sometimes lead to crowded common areas or increased noise levels. While many rooms have been subject to renovations, some guests noted that certain areas still appear dated or that the updates feel incomplete. A few guests reported issues with the city water quality, noting an unpleasant smell or taste. Additionally, some guests experienced billing issues or confusion regarding charges, particularly when booking through third-party sites.