We stayed here with a large group at the end of August – they were fantastic! Very easy to deal with. The rooms were exactly what we needed. The staff was very accommodating and quick to check in so many people and rooms at once.

There were people yelling very loudly at each other on the street outside quite late into the night. We could hear them like they were beside us. But that is not the hotels fault.

The rooms were all unique and cool. The hotel itself is gorgeous and rich in history.

I would recommend this hotel to everyone!

– Alyssa Hickey

The hotel it self is very cozy, very nice place and dog friendly for good price.
The receptionists we met were absolutely amazing, explained us everything and let us check in earlier.
Defo would recommend this place if ypu dont mind some noise as is on the high street opposite to some nightclubs and get get loud

– Iweta Plucinska

I recently stayed at The Red Lion in Colchester while visiting friends, and unfortunately the experience was very disappointing.

I appreciate that the hotel is old-fashioned and has a quaint, historic charm — that’s part of its appeal. However, there’s a big difference between “traditional” and poorly maintained.

The biggest issue was cleanliness. There were bugs in the bed, which is completely unacceptable in any hotel. In the bathroom, there was a large hair left on the tiles, which immediately made the room feel unclean and not properly checked before our arrival.

When I reported these issues to reception, I was told that Head Office would be in touch. I have to say, the response felt dismissive and lacking any real urgency or concern. There was no immediate reassurance or meaningful attempt to resolve the situation, which was very disappointing.

Additionally, the bathroom layout is poorly designed — the shower screen hits directly against the sink, and if you’re running a bath it looks as though it could easily smash into it. This doesn’t feel safe or well thought out.

Overall, while the building itself may have character, cleanliness and guest care should never be compromised. Sadly, I wouldn’t stay here again.

– Dani