The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers
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Summary of reviewsThe Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers in Wellington is highly celebrated for its outstanding central location, situated in the heart of the city and in close proximity to key attractions such as the Te Papa museum, the waterfront and a thriving restaurant strip. This strategic position allows guests easy access to public transportation, including buses to the airport and makes it convenient for exploring Wellington's culture, dining and entertainment without needing a car. The location is particularly ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize convenience.
Guests have enjoyed commendable dining experiences at the hotel. The breakfast service, while generally praised for its quality and substantial servings, has faced some inconsistencies regarding its availability and detail. However, dinner at the bar and restaurant is overwhelmingly positive. The welcoming atmosphere, happy hour and tasty meals, including a surprise free Friday night BBQ, contribute to a satisfying culinary experience.
The rooms receive mixed reviews. Positively, many guests find them spacious, comfortable and clean with well-equipped amenities. The decor reflecting historic features, such as stained glass and wooden banisters, is appreciated. Nonetheless, some rooms are criticized for being small or dark with issues such as dampness and outdated decor mentioned. The cleanliness of the hotel overall is generally considered satisfactory with spaces like bathrooms and kitchens often highlighted as well-maintained, despite occasional reports of dirty carpets and unpleasant odors in certain areas.
One of the hotel's strongest points is its staff, who are frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism and helpful nature. Reception, bar and night staff all contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring a positive guest experience. The free WiFi generally receives good marks for its reliability in communal areas, although some guests face issues with connectivity in their rooms.
The nightlife scene around The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is vibrant and energetic, making it perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Wellington's dynamic social scene. However, this also means that noise can be an issue, especially for rooms near the bar or street-facing ones. The beds are comfortable and often praised for their size and cleanliness, though some guests have noted issues with older mattresses and bedding thickness.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers a solid three-star experience with a blend of affordability and basic comfort, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Its historic charm with preserved Victorian architectural features and a warm, old-world ambiance, adds a unique touch to the stay, providing not just accommodation but a journey back in time. Despite some areas needing improvement, such as room quality and noise management, the hotel remains a charming and practical choice for those visiting Wellington.
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Guests have enjoyed commendable dining experiences at the hotel. The breakfast service, while generally praised for its quality and substantial servings, has faced some inconsistencies regarding its availability and detail. However, dinner at the bar and restaurant is overwhelmingly positive. The welcoming atmosphere, happy hour and tasty meals, including a surprise free Friday night BBQ, contribute to a satisfying culinary experience.
The rooms receive mixed reviews. Positively, many guests find them spacious, comfortable and clean with well-equipped amenities. The decor reflecting historic features, such as stained glass and wooden banisters, is appreciated. Nonetheless, some rooms are criticized for being small or dark with issues such as dampness and outdated decor mentioned. The cleanliness of the hotel overall is generally considered satisfactory with spaces like bathrooms and kitchens often highlighted as well-maintained, despite occasional reports of dirty carpets and unpleasant odors in certain areas.
One of the hotel's strongest points is its staff, who are frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism and helpful nature. Reception, bar and night staff all contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring a positive guest experience. The free WiFi generally receives good marks for its reliability in communal areas, although some guests face issues with connectivity in their rooms.
The nightlife scene around The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is vibrant and energetic, making it perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Wellington's dynamic social scene. However, this also means that noise can be an issue, especially for rooms near the bar or street-facing ones. The beds are comfortable and often praised for their size and cleanliness, though some guests have noted issues with older mattresses and bedding thickness.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers a solid three-star experience with a blend of affordability and basic comfort, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Its historic charm with preserved Victorian architectural features and a warm, old-world ambiance, adds a unique touch to the stay, providing not just accommodation but a journey back in time. Despite some areas needing improvement, such as room quality and noise management, the hotel remains a charming and practical choice for those visiting Wellington.
Historic Hostel
Hostel near Nightlife Spots
Cheap Hostel
3-Star Hostel
Guest Reviews
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is praised for its outstanding location in the heart of Wellington, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city. Guests repeatedly highlighted its proximity to popular attractions such as the Te Papa museum, waterfront and the bustling restaurant strip. The convenience of public transportation with buses to the airport passing by, adds to its appeal. The hotel is close to various shops, bars and restaurants and within easy walking distance to theaters and museums, making it possible for guests to enjoy the city's offerings without needing a car. Additionally, the central location is particularly advantageous for those catching a ferry, attending events or simply wanting to be at the center of the action. Overall, the Cambridge Hotel offers excellent value for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a central and convenient location.
The breakfast experience at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers has received a mix of feedback from guests, reflecting a range of experiences. Many guests appreciated the breakfast for its good quality and substantial servings, often describing it as delicious and great value for money. The friendly chef and staff serving breakfast were also noted positively. Guests who enjoyed a full breakfast mentioned it was both well made and generously portioned.
However, there were notable inconsistencies in the breakfast service. Some guests mentioned the lack of availability or information about breakfast and there were instances where breakfast was not served before 11.00 AM or not at all. Additionally, a few guests were dissatisfied with cold meals, bitter coffee and generally low-quality breakfast items. Lack of essential items like bowls and cutlery also detracted from the overall experience for some.
Overall, while many guests had a positive breakfast experience at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers, the inconsistent availability and quality suggest that there may be room for improvement in their breakfast service.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers boasts a commendable bar and restaurant, which serve as significant highlights for guests. Located at the front of the premises, the bar is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and happy hour from 4pm to 6pm every day. Guests appreciated the great value in both food and drinks offered at the bar. The restaurant, recommendable in its own right, provides delicious and lovely meals alongside a friendly and accommodating staff, including chefs and bar staff.
Diners enjoyed good meal options and remarked positively on their dining experiences, noting that the food served in the bar downstairs was particularly delicious. Despite some mentions of limited menu choices, the overall sentiment towards the food quality remained positive. A pleasant surprise for guests included a free Friday night BBQ, further enhancing their dining experience. All facilities, including the attached gaming lounge, contributed to a satisfying stay, making it a good option for those looking to enjoy great food and a comfortable, enjoyable dining atmosphere.
The rooms at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers received a mix of feedback from guests. Positively, many found the rooms to be spacious, comfortable and clean. Large rooms, big comfortable beds and well-equipped amenities like refrigerators, tables, chairs and drink-making facilities added to the appeal. The family rooms, in particular, were noted for their size and convenience. The decor of the building, including historic features like stained glass windows and wooden banisters, was appreciated by some guests.
However, there were also several criticisms. Some rooms were described as very basic, small, dark or cramped. Issues such as dampness, musty smells, old and dated decor, peeling plaster and dirty carpets were mentioned. Bathrooms, both shared and private, were sometimes noted as being small and in need of better maintenance. Noise from other guests and slamming doors were also concerns for some visitors.
In summary, while The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers some well-sized and equipped rooms, there are significant variations in room quality and several maintenance issues that need addressing.
The beds at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers receive generally positive feedback from guests, highlighting their comfort and coziness. Many reviewers praised the beds as being very comfortable with several mentioning their size, including large and king-size options. Cleanliness also received commendations with beds often described as clean and tidy. Some families appreciated the room arrangements with double beds for parents and bunk beds for children noted as convenient.
However, there were some mixed opinions. A few guests found the beds to be old, hard or even lumpy and some mentioned issues with mattresses and springs. Certain comments also pointed to the need for additional blankets with some bedding described as thin or insufficient for colder nights. Overall, while most guests seemed satisfied with the comfort and cleanliness of the beds, a few highlighted areas for improvement in terms of bed condition and bedding supplies.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers receives mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness with many guests finding the facilities to be well-maintained and spotless. Frequent mentions of clean bathrooms, showers and kitchens showcase a commendable level of hygiene. Guests often highlight the clean and comfortable rooms, noting the high standard of cleanliness and the well-kept condition of the bedding and bathrooms.
However, the hotel does have its drawbacks. Some reviews point to issues with dirt and dust, particularly in common areas and older sections of the hotel. Reports of dirty carpets, unpleasant odors and mold also surface occasionally, indicating that certain areas could benefit from more thorough and consistent cleaning. Despite these issues, many reviewers still find the accommodation comfortable and the overall cleanliness satisfactory for a pleasant stay.
The hotel's central location within walking distance of various attractions, adds to its appeal, making it a convenient choice for travelers. While the ongoing renovations and outdated decor may detract from its charm for some, the historic character of the building garners appreciation from others. Despite some negative experiences with the occasional unclean room or shared facilities, the Cambridge Hotel's efforts to maintain a clean environment do not go unnoticed by a significant number of its guests.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is frequently praised for its stellar staff. Numerous guests highlight the friendliness and helpful nature of the team, noting their warm welcomes and accommodating attitudes. The reception staff receives particular commendation for their professional and pleasant demeanor, making check-in and departures smooth and painless. The bar and night staff also earn accolades for their friendliness and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a positive experience.
Guests appreciate the staff's knowledge and responsiveness, demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellent customer service. Despite some occasional critiques about specific instances or individual staff members not meeting expectations, the general consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. Many guests mention that staff members are polite, professional and attentive to their needs, making the overall atmosphere of the hotel inviting and comfortable.
In summary, the staff at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers significantly enhance the guest experience with their exemplary service, contributing to the property's reputation as a welcoming and accommodating destination.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers a reliable and convenient WiFi experience in several common areas of the hotel. Guests have praised the secured and fast WiFi available, highlighting its strong signal and stability, particularly in the bar, restaurant and lounge areas. Many found it easy to connect and were pleased with the speed, noting it was good for their needs. Although some encountered issues with the WiFi in their rooms, citing weak and unreliable connections or routers being too far, these problems were generally confined to specific areas and some had their issues promptly resolved. Overall, the hotel provides free WiFi with some indicating it is unlimited, enhancing their stay especially in the communal spaces.
Nestled in a bustling part of Wellington, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers a central location for those looking to immerse themselves in vibrant nightlife. With a bar and restaurant right within the hotel and several pubs, restaurants and shops nearby, it caters perfectly to night owls. Guests can enjoy the convenience of being within walking distance to various attractions, including a short stroll to the beach and easy access to the heart of the city.
However, the hotel's lively setting comes with its share of downsides. The area is known for its busy nightlife scene, which can lead to substantial night-time noise. Noisy bars with live music, party goers, street traffic and occasional disorderly guests contribute to a rather loud environment, especially during Friday and Saturday nights. The rooms, particularly those directly above the bar or facing the street, are often affected by the commotion outside.
Despite the noise issues, the atmosphere around The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is energetic and vibrant, making it an ideal spot for those eager to explore Wellington's dynamic nightlife. For a comfortable stay amidst all the action, earplugs might be a practical addition to the travel kit.
Situated in downtown Wellington, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers presents a blend of affordability and basic comfort, catering to budget-conscious travelers seeking three-star accommodation. The hotel's primary appeal lies in its cost, offering cheap rooms with an excellent price-quality ratio, making it good value for money. While the rooms are generally clean—with notable mentions of clean towels and large beds—the overall ambiance feels old and somewhat neglected with maintenance and cleaning described as inadequate.
The hotel falls short in its breakfast offerings with some guests noting the absence of breakfast entirely, which was disappointing. Additionally, the limited staff presence impacts the overall service experience with some guests perceiving a hostel-like vibe more suitable for long stays rather than short stopovers.
Entertainment options are minimal with limited TV channels and no movies available, contributing to a basic stay. The atmosphere within the hotel has been described as dark and dingy with an aroma that didn't enhance the stay. Despite these drawbacks, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers remains a viable option for those prioritizing budget over luxury, providing a fair and typical three-star experience in a central Wellington location.
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers, established in 1893, stands as a testament to Victorian architecture and historical significance. Guests are charmed by its wonderfully preserved antique elevator, sash windows and ornate chandeliers. The interior decor exudes an antique beauty with features like stained glass windows, wooden banisters and a beautiful fireplace in the lobby enhancing the old-world atmosphere.
The hotel combines the old grandeur with a solid and cinematic build, making the stay not just comfortable but a journey back in time. The warm welcome and the unique charm of this historical building contribute to a fantastic ambiance that travelers appreciate. Its heritage is evident in every corner, from the old-fashioned rooms to the beautiful woodwork inside. The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers isn’t just a place to stay; it's an experience steeped in history and character.
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Breakfast
However, there were notable inconsistencies in the breakfast service. Some guests mentioned the lack of availability or information about breakfast and there were instances where breakfast was not served before 11.00 AM or not at all. Additionally, a few guests were dissatisfied with cold meals, bitter coffee and generally low-quality breakfast items. Lack of essential items like bowls and cutlery also detracted from the overall experience for some.
Overall, while many guests had a positive breakfast experience at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers, the inconsistent availability and quality suggest that there may be room for improvement in their breakfast service.
Dinner
Diners enjoyed good meal options and remarked positively on their dining experiences, noting that the food served in the bar downstairs was particularly delicious. Despite some mentions of limited menu choices, the overall sentiment towards the food quality remained positive. A pleasant surprise for guests included a free Friday night BBQ, further enhancing their dining experience. All facilities, including the attached gaming lounge, contributed to a satisfying stay, making it a good option for those looking to enjoy great food and a comfortable, enjoyable dining atmosphere.
Rooms
However, there were also several criticisms. Some rooms were described as very basic, small, dark or cramped. Issues such as dampness, musty smells, old and dated decor, peeling plaster and dirty carpets were mentioned. Bathrooms, both shared and private, were sometimes noted as being small and in need of better maintenance. Noise from other guests and slamming doors were also concerns for some visitors.
In summary, while The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers some well-sized and equipped rooms, there are significant variations in room quality and several maintenance issues that need addressing.
Beds
However, there were some mixed opinions. A few guests found the beds to be old, hard or even lumpy and some mentioned issues with mattresses and springs. Certain comments also pointed to the need for additional blankets with some bedding described as thin or insufficient for colder nights. Overall, while most guests seemed satisfied with the comfort and cleanliness of the beds, a few highlighted areas for improvement in terms of bed condition and bedding supplies.
Cleanliness
However, the hotel does have its drawbacks. Some reviews point to issues with dirt and dust, particularly in common areas and older sections of the hotel. Reports of dirty carpets, unpleasant odors and mold also surface occasionally, indicating that certain areas could benefit from more thorough and consistent cleaning. Despite these issues, many reviewers still find the accommodation comfortable and the overall cleanliness satisfactory for a pleasant stay.
The hotel's central location within walking distance of various attractions, adds to its appeal, making it a convenient choice for travelers. While the ongoing renovations and outdated decor may detract from its charm for some, the historic character of the building garners appreciation from others. Despite some negative experiences with the occasional unclean room or shared facilities, the Cambridge Hotel's efforts to maintain a clean environment do not go unnoticed by a significant number of its guests.
Staff
Guests appreciate the staff's knowledge and responsiveness, demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellent customer service. Despite some occasional critiques about specific instances or individual staff members not meeting expectations, the general consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. Many guests mention that staff members are polite, professional and attentive to their needs, making the overall atmosphere of the hotel inviting and comfortable.
In summary, the staff at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers significantly enhance the guest experience with their exemplary service, contributing to the property's reputation as a welcoming and accommodating destination.
Wi-Fi
Nightlife
However, the hotel's lively setting comes with its share of downsides. The area is known for its busy nightlife scene, which can lead to substantial night-time noise. Noisy bars with live music, party goers, street traffic and occasional disorderly guests contribute to a rather loud environment, especially during Friday and Saturday nights. The rooms, particularly those directly above the bar or facing the street, are often affected by the commotion outside.
Despite the noise issues, the atmosphere around The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is energetic and vibrant, making it an ideal spot for those eager to explore Wellington's dynamic nightlife. For a comfortable stay amidst all the action, earplugs might be a practical addition to the travel kit.
3 Star
The hotel falls short in its breakfast offerings with some guests noting the absence of breakfast entirely, which was disappointing. Additionally, the limited staff presence impacts the overall service experience with some guests perceiving a hostel-like vibe more suitable for long stays rather than short stopovers.
Entertainment options are minimal with limited TV channels and no movies available, contributing to a basic stay. The atmosphere within the hotel has been described as dark and dingy with an aroma that didn't enhance the stay. Despite these drawbacks, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers remains a viable option for those prioritizing budget over luxury, providing a fair and typical three-star experience in a central Wellington location.
Historic
The hotel combines the old grandeur with a solid and cinematic build, making the stay not just comfortable but a journey back in time. The warm welcome and the unique charm of this historical building contribute to a fantastic ambiance that travelers appreciate. Its heritage is evident in every corner, from the old-fashioned rooms to the beautiful woodwork inside. The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers isn’t just a place to stay; it's an experience steeped in history and character.
No, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers.
No, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers.
No, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers doesn't have a gym.
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