The Coal Exchange Hotel
Location: The Exchange Bld, Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 5FQ, Cardiff, GB
Star Rating: 3 Stars
Property Type: Hotels
About this Property
Convenient Amenities for a Relaxing Stay
Experience convenience with complimentary wireless internet, concierge services, and access to a nearby fitness facility. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant and unwind with a drink at the cozy bar/lounge.
Comfortable Accommodations and Entertainment
Relax in one of the 55 guestrooms equipped with LCD TVs and complimentary wireless internet. Stay entertained with digital programming and pamper yourself with complimentary toiletries in the bathrooms.
Ideal Location for Exploring
Located in Cardiff (Butetown), the hotel is close to popular attractions like Mermaid Quay and Techniquest. With Cardiff Bay just a 5-minute drive away, explore the best of the city during your stay.
Book your relaxing stay at The Coal Exchange Hotel now for the perfect Cardiff experience!
Important Information
- The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
- Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
Policies
Check-in: 03:00 PM - 01:00 AM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Instructions: This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. Guests will receive an email 48 hours before arrival with check-in instructions. Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property.
Amenities & Facilities
- Proposal/romance packages available
- Express check-out
- Free WiFi
- 24-hour front desk
- Luggage storage
- Express check-in/check-out
- Concierge service
- Elevator
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Multilingual staff
- Express check-out
- Smoke-free property
- Proposal/romance packages available
- Casino nearby
- Wheelchair-accessible on-site restaurant
- Well-lit path to entrance
Rooms Available
-
Quadruple Room
2 Double Beds
Individually decorated room
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Standard King Room with Shower
1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
Individually decorated room
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, bathtub or shower, free toiletries, and a hair dryer
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) available, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Free WiFi
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
King Room
1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
Individually decorated room
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Triple Room, Accessible
1 Twin Bed and 1 Double Bed
420 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, free toiletries, and a hair dryer
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Accessibility - Wheelchair accessible
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Wheelchair accessible
- Daily housekeeping
- Free WiFi
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Wheelchair-width doorways
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Standard Double Room
1 Double Bed
291 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, bathtub or shower, and jetted bathtub or rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Family Room
3 Double Beds
646 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) available, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Triple Room
1 Twin Bed and 1 Double Bed
377 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Presidential Suite
2 King Beds
807 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Entertainment - 30-inch LCD TV with digital channels
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, and room service (limited hours)
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Safe, iron/ironing board, and wardrobe or closet; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Connecting/adjoining rooms can be requested, subject to availability
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Hair dryer
- Private bathroom
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Jetted bathtub
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Guest Reviews
- Rhys (4/5): Avoid during the summer, or during an event. - The hotel doesn’t have any air conditioning, apparently due to its age and historical importance to the Cardiff Bay area it has never been installed, even though theres was a temperature control in the room! So was very uncomfortable during our stay because of the hot temperatures. I asked for a fan but the hotel failed to provide one. The window wouldn’t close so was being disturbed at all times during the evening and mornings, especially as my window was close to the bin area and the staff were emptying the bottle bins from the night before! Overall we didn’t have a great stay so wouldn’t recommend staying here!
- Warden (10/5): Cardiff trip - Great location and friendly helpful staff. Large comfortable room.
- Anna (8/5): - Very unique hotel with a lot of fascinating history and character. Room was clean and beds were comfortable. We happened to be there on a hot summer day, and there is no air conditioning in the rooms, which would be expected with an older hotel. The rooms were hot, but the hotel staff is very responsive in providing extra fans.
- Jayne (10/5): Gorgeous Building - Gorgeous looking hotel but looking a bit jaded at the edges. Loved the feel of the place though. Loved the Jacuzzi bath to get rid of my aches and pains. Shame no air con but 3 fans did make up a little for that. Lovely building though. The upkeep must cost a fortune.
- Sarah (10/5): - Beautiful room in historic building. Excellent location, walkable to the Mermaid Quay area. One downside was that the jacuzzi tub/ shower was not accessible to my elderly parents. There were no handlebars in the tub area.
- Kelly (8/5): - Hotel in a lovely spot for the bay.
- Daniel (10/5): We'll visit again - A lovely period building keeping many of the original features, with
- Adam (8/5): Grand and comfortable hotel - The hotel itself was very grand and comfortable. We had an excellent stay and staff were very attentive. The room we stayed in had a jacuzzi bathtub which was a massive bonus. However, if you book via hotels.com be sure to call the hotel to check they have the correct booking. We requested a twin room when we booked but was given a king room as, according to the receptionist, hotels.com do not pass these requests to the hotel. Located a short walk from the Bay and close to public transport links that connect to the rest of Cardiff. Would highly recommend!
- Emma (4/5): - As we had booked a presidential suite we expecting presidential standards, there were 3 tall fans in the room..all dusty, the bath seal was mouldy, the shower head was dirty and crusted with lime scale. To top it off we have been bitten on our legs and torso by something. We appreciate that this is an historical building however....it did not match the cost for 1 night
- Gavin (4/5): - Filthy room. Issues raised with reception and apology given but nothing more. Very very over priced accommodation in very very poor state.
- Roy John (6/5): In need of refurbishment. - Whilst the building is beautiful steeped in history it felt very tiered , it was dark and very muggy. The rooms needed decoration, bathroom was particularly in need of some love, just felt dirty. Privacy was poor when sash windows were open for ventilation. TV far too small for room and in the wrong position. Desperately needed air conditioning.
- Sara-Jane (10/5): - The staff were amazing - really helpful and friendly
- Sue (8/5): Lovely hotel with history. - A beautiful building for a hotel. A lot of history too. Stayed during the heatwave and unfortunately no air conditioning, but they had placed a fan in the room. The stay was comfortable and the beds wonderful, but a couple of things needed doing ….like the broken window sash in the bathroom and somewhere to put soap next to the sink. A bin in the bathroom would be good too. Overall staff were friendly and it was clean and comfortable. The area was lovely and quiet too. Would stay again.
- Jennifer (2/5): Don’t expect any hot water - We were charged the full price even though we had already paid a large deposit, now have to get a refund from Expedia apparently. No hot water in the bath or shower, maintenance tried to fix it but we still only managed luke warm for a short period of time. Room was very dated, tiny bed looks lost in a large room with not much in the way of furniture.
- Verified traveler (2/5): Extremely dirty, very disappointed - The room was filthy. Thick dust on the wooden wall panelling. No shower curtain so everything in the bathroom got soaked. Thick dust on the standalone fans which presumably were in the room because the air conditioning was broken. Faeces on the side of the bath which when reported nobody came to clean. And very strange to have a jacuzzi bath in a room for 6 people (unless that is what you’re looking for!)
- Verified traveler (6/5): Seen better days - 2 night stay cost a lot of money. Boiling hot weekend, no air con, fans provided but next to useless. Keycards stopped working almost immediately. Room not overly clean, lots of dust around and some paper peeling off. Made the mistake of opening a window and saw a debris strewn flat roof. The guy serving in the main bar made us feel about as welcome as a fart in an astronaut suit. Great singer and guitarist in the small bar which helped and staff there very nice. Sadly looks like a place in decline.
- Sarah (4/5): Noisy - We stayed on the same night as a school prom was being held at the hotel. It was an incredibly hot night and the noise from the students that had congregated outside the front of the hotel, was very loud. We returned to the hotel, from the principality stadium, at around 11pm and due to the noise and very ineffective air con unit, we didn’t sleep at all and decided to leave at 2am to drive 2.5 hours home. When we spoke to the guy on reception he apologised for the poor air conditioning and said it was because it was an old hotel. I’m all up for kids celebrating at their end of school prom but not at the expense of the hotel guests who have paid a fai price for an overnight stay. We won’t return to this hotel.
- Michael (8/5): - Really friendly and helpful staff
- Lesley (6/5): Helpful staff but v hot room. - Lovely character hotel with helpful staff. Unfortunately no working aircon and the fan that was provided was pretty hopeless. Only one of the two windows opened.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Lovely hotel. Highly recommend
- Verified traveler (8/5): Lovely overall - air con needed! - We arrived early to drop our bags off and were expecting on have to come back later on to check in. We received great service at the desk and were able to check in early as there was a room ready for us. Lovely spacious room, which was very comfortable. We had a great sleep in the bed. The breakfast was delicious. Definitely worth adding on. The only reason for 4 out of 5 stars is the fact there’s no air conditioning in the rooms. Had there not been a fan placed in our room, I don’t think it would have been bearable. We had to have the fan on for the whole time we were in the room because the temperature was uncomfortable without it. The rest it the hotel is nicely are conditioned.
- Dan (6/5): - Staff were friendly. Aura restaurant is very nice. Rooms are sizeable. Air conditioning didn’t work. Location is half hour walk from city centre.
- Jayne (6/5): - Grand old building with some quirky features. Needs a lot of money spending on it. Pretty close to Cardiff Bay area, which is lovely. Seems a bit unloved in areas. Bedroom was reasonably clean and beds comfortable but there were books on our bedroom windowsill covered in dust and one of the fans also very dusty. Lots of tea/coffee etc. The area around the hotel is pretty unkempt and scruffy and not a pleasant walk to Cardiff City area at night. Probably would look for alternate accommodation if staying in Cardiff again sadly.
- Alexandra (8/5): - Staff was amazing at front desk and also at the restaurant. Nice historical hotel.
- Hannah (4/5): - Poor quality hotel for the price. I stayed at the Coal Exchange as I attended a gig at the Principality stadium and whilst it is a beautiful old building and the staff I encountered were pleasant, my room was inadequate. The bathroom floor was bubbling and peeling, quite the slip hazard, and it was clear the floor had not been cleaned since the last guest. Fabric on the headboard and dressing table chair were stained and peeling away. There was also dust coating the dressing table and wardrobe surfaces. It had not been cleaned. For the inflated price paid, this room was not up to standard. At least the bed was clean and comfortable. Unfortunately I only noticed most of the issues in the morning, once I was back from the gig, in daylight. I spoke to Expedia and hotel staff but was told nothing could be done. Please avoid.
- Kristin (10/5): - The Coal Exchange is a beautiful hotel built in the late 1800s. Original wood floors that creak under your feet with every step, gorgeous brickwork on the outside, and amazing staff. Every staff member went out of their way to assist us and make us feel welcome. This hotel is a gem!
- Consuelo (4/5): - The hotel doesn’t have an air con it was too hot in the room. We were not able to sleep well. The first room we got stinks but as soon as we reported it the was replaced immediately.
- Rachelle (6/5): - Pros: The staff was excellent, the location was great, the history and grandure of the building was interesting. Cons: 2 out of 3 rooms air conditioning wasn’t working. 1 out of 3 rooms the tv wasn’t working. The upkeep of the building needs some work.
- ALISON (8/5): - Bathroom
- Rachel (6/5): Hotel under par - Hotel on 1st impression is Amazing. Sadly the room we were in was in need of a really good clean , stains on carpets and litter under the wardrobe. Wallpaper peeling, air conditioning not working and cannot open windows. The room was sweltering which let to an uncomfortable stay. Sadly not what we expected from what should have been a treat.
- Helen (4/5): - Lovely building and friendly staff. The shower didn’t work on arrival and lights flickering on and off. There appeared to be air conditioning unit in the room but stated was none. Window didn’t stay open so had to wedge open with desk drawer to cool room down. Luke warm water through tap and shower. They fixed shower and light when highlighted. Telephone service to report issues apparently not working. Couldn’t WhatsApp although told to do this to report issues as no reply due to no phone access for the staff to this service! Wouldn’t stay again. Breakfast decent though.
- Dave (4/5): Won’t be going back .. - Tired and grubby hotel.
- Andrew (10/5): - Splendid building, great staff and excellent food. One small niggle, a double bed should be a double not two singles put together.
- Michaela (10/5): - Beautiful hotel, room was clean and had everything we needed and more
- Julie (8/5): - Bedroom was a good size although the bathroom was very small. Good facilities in the room, tv too high on wall made it awkward to watch. Comfy bed, had a good night sleep. Fan in the room was handy as it was warm in the room.
- Caroline (8/5): - Very well placed for a stay in Cardiff Bay. Staff very helpful and polite. Quirky hotel with a great vibe.
- Ceri (6/5): Night at coal exchange - Not the best welcome at reception room nice clean but issue with electrics in room 01 bath massive but water was luke warm stuff in bar was very friendly and helpful great Location
- Sharon (10/5): Ideal location. - Lovely, welcoming staff. Hotel location perfect for our visit to the millennium centre. Spacious, clean room with a jacuzzi.
- Amy (8/5): - We had a lovely stay overnight, the room was spacious and well thought out, however for a suite it would have been nice to have a few extras such as bathrobes. The room and bathroom were both clean, and the jacuzzi bath is a lovely bonus. Breakfast in the morning was delicious and offered plenty of choice. Would happily stay again, great hotel for strolling around Cardiff Bay.
- Mr John (10/5): - Great historical building with lots of character and really friendly staff.
- catherine (10/5): - Great stay. Reception guy was lovely so friendly. Fab jacquzzi bath. Bed not the best… king size room but just 2 singles pushed together.
- Amanda (10/5): Amazing stay - Room was lovely and clean. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Absolutely lovely decor and definitely added bonus of the jacuzzi bath and love seeing all the old photos and history of the building.
- Verified traveler (6/5): Not the greatest customer service - Actual room, stay etc was great. Unfortunately marred by incredibly rude staff. Sent round in circles and made to feel very uncomfortable about having booked through a third party rather than directly.
- Paul (8/5): - Staff were great, public areas really nice. A vast place, clearly old and a handful to maintain, room felt a bit tired and need of an update. Would stay again though, nothing major!
- Joe (8/5): - Good size rooms and excellent restaurant
- David (10/5): - The hotel is very well presented. The staff were welcoming and helpful, ordering taxis for me. My room was very comfortable and clean with all necessary facilities. I had an excellent sleep. The late bar was a welcome facility. It was well stocked and an opportunity to socialise with other rugby fans
- Nicole (6/5): Okay stay but wouldn’t stay again - Was an okay stay, probably wouldn’t stay again, wall paper was peeling off the walls in a few areas, after having a shower the paint was coming off the ledge, bed was okay, pillows a bit hard, booked a king room which was 2 single beds pushed together with 2 single mattresses, room was really cold for a few hours after checking in bathroom was freezing, we did had an extra room heater.
- Joana (2/5): - Absolutely shocking!! Very disappointing Valentine's stay. Booked a triple room, (the only one available), but figured it'd be bigger... The room was paid for on booking, and my partner checked in before me and the lady at the reception (with a hijad) was nice and polite. She asked for a security card, which is fine. At first glance, the room looked nice, however, upon closer inspection, the jacuzzi bath was dirty and the towels and bedding were stained. The room was really cold and the heating didn't work properly, but there was an electric heater in the room, however, the water was barely lukewarm, which made the showering hard and we couldn't enjoy a nice hot bath, which we paid more for. When we checked out, at around 10.15, due to parking, there was no one at reception, my partner had to go around the restaurant looking for the receptionist, until a housekeeper came and said we could leave it on the desk, but in the meantime, a blonde woman with glasses came out and we handed her the key and told her which room we were checking out of. Later, my partner calls me saying they charged him £20 extra for late checkout. He called them to clarify the charge, and the receptionist (blonde) very rudely said, we didn’t checkout until 3pm and the housekeeper also said there were still someone else left in the room, which is a blatant lie. And were told it'd take 5 days for the refund. We'll not be returning and will ensure everyone knows about the poor service and rude receptionist.
- Sarah (10/5): Best sleep ever! - The best sleep in a hotel ever! No noise, comfy bed and just a really peaceful night. The hotel staff are wonderful, so friendly and welcoming at reception and breakfast. The breakfast was delicious. Overall great stay.
- Mariusz (10/5): - Nice hotel... recommend
- Owen (10/5): - …
- Rebecca (8/5): - Room was very big, bath was lovely and bed really comfortable. Staff at the desk were very welcoming and helpful. There was however marks on the bed spread, watermarks and ring marks on the desk and dust in the bathroom. The property is very old and the room was freezing!! We had two heaters so managed to defrost after a few hours. Enjoyed our stay but with a few tweaks it could have been even better!
- Linda (8/5): - The breakfast buffet was kept in containers which were warm, not hot. The plates were not warm enough. The individually cooked Full Welsh was not hot enough either. I asked the chef to reheat my cooked breakfast.
- Apeksha (10/5): - Amazing hotel staff, you’re visiting a piece of history.
- David (8/5): Nice room with Jacuzzi bath. - The room was nice and big with a comfortable bed and a large bathroom with a Jacuzzi bath. We had a good night’s sleep and felt rested in the morning. Very convenient location for the WMC and the restaurants in the Bay.
- Jack (6/5): - Room 137 directly above restaurant/bar - noisy until well after midnight. Great breakfast and comfortable otherwise - just asknif your room is above the bar!
- Ken (6/5): - Room was very cold, was very small oil heater and large room we slept in our clothes and considered going home. There was no hot water also. The TV was not working also. We told reception and nothing was done
- Amanda (4/5): - Beautiful old building but the decor throughout and in our room was really run down and even quite tatty in parts. There was paint flaking off some of the skirting boards in our room, dirty grout between some of the bathroom tiles and no central heating. Instead we had an oil heater which we had to turn off overnight because it was too hot, but then the room temperature dropped in the night and it was freezing - especially as the duvet was really thin. And there was no heating in the bathroom so that was also really cold. Also, there was no shower screen or curtain which meant that when we showered, the water drenched the bathroom floor. It’s such a shame because this could be a really great hotel. Definitely seen better days.
- jane (8/5): Coal exchange room 102 review - The Coal Exchange is a unique hotel in a very convenient spot for Cardiff Bay. Steeped in history. Good value. Downside for us was room was very dark and whilst there was a dressing table there was no stool nor light so you couldnt use it... it was so dark in that part of our 3 people room ( 102) . There were also no extra pillows as you normally would have. Some of the staircases needed a good hoover and clean. Its such a lovely place just needs tlc and attention to those details that matter. Breakfast was nice.It is a good value place to stay though so dont let those points put you off just maybe ask for a brighter room.
- Lacey ward (10/5): - The property was like walking into a museum, it was very beautiful, a old building with a fascinating history behind it, it was stunning on the outside as well as the inside
- Kristina (10/5): ⭐⭐⭐⭐🤩 - Our stay was super, the property has so much history. We loved how the hotel offered bottled water and biscuits. The bed was very comfy
- Donna (8/5): Impressive building. - On arrival the hotel looks very impressive, reception was very grand and welcoming, a very friendly helpful lady on reception. On first appearance the room looks great but it wasn't as one would expect, a gathering of dust behind the bathroom door, the tiles around the sink needed a clean toothpaste/watermarks, soapscum in the bottom of the bath. Tea/coffee stain on the tv wall. Overall a bit tired. The staff at the Hotel were all great, very friendly helpful, the house keeper was very informative about the building we enjoyed talking to her about the history of the building. A great location for visiting the bay, a short walk to car parks.
- Rich (10/5): - Lovely hotel. Nice rooms. Tasty breakfast. Pleasant staff.
- Tony (10/5): - Historic bld great jet bath
- Louise (10/5): - A lovely relaxing evening in a super comfy bedroom. The bath was big enough for two people to share comfortably. The only down side was the shower had a really annoying cold drop!
- Verified traveler (6/5): Very cool decor - The decoration is amazing, the jacuzzi is super cool, the wifi and instant coffee options were very sad.
- Gareth (10/5): Superb - Lovely stay for one night. Fantastic hotel close to the bay. Parked right outside and not too expensive. Had some drinks and a bite in the bar, delicious. Barman was superb. Will definitley stay again.
- Ceri (8/5): - A beautiful building and excellent breakfast. We came down for breakfast 15 minutes before the end and there was still lots of hot food. Very friendly staff. It is an old building, room 150 was very noisy, and we were kept up by the very noisy pipes from our room and the surrounding rooms. But all was forgiven due to the amazing shower and fantastic breakfast. We'll definitely stay again...with ear plugs.
- Emma (8/5): Lovely hotel - Lovely stay in a beautiful hotel the rooms could do with a bit of tlc but other than that it was lovely. The bath was a great touch
- Georgina (8/5): Alright - It was okay for 2 nights in Cardiff but a little rough around the edges, the bathroom wasn’t clean and there were tobacco leaves on the dresser, not to mention a rip in the bedsheets, so better cleanliness is needed.
- Martin (10/5): - We were attending a show and this hotel was within walking distance. The hotel was grand and comfortable. It was clear to us that the fabric of the building is tiring and lacks some facilities. The staff were all excellent - friendly, polite, hospitable, warm, helpful. The bar was excellent; we didn’t have dinner. Breakfast was ok (plates were cold). In short - lived it - but perhaps needs some major investment
- Bruce (10/5): - Lovely historical building in convenient location for Mermaid Quay, Millennium Centre etc. lovely room and very helpful staff. Would definitely stay again
- M (8/5): - Unique decor
- Jacqueline (10/5): - Weekend away with the girls perfect triple room great location. Comport beds lovely staff. Breakfast superb.
- Lara (4/5): - Very dark hotel and room gloomy and in need of a refurbishment!
- Dale (10/5): - Staff was helpful and welcoming
- Rhys (8/5): - Christmas function played loud music until 1am in the morning and was too loud considering rooms are directly above the function room.
- Jacqueline (10/5): Pleasant last minute night away - Grabbed a last minute break away. Staff were friendly and hotel was nice with lots of history. Booked breakfast can’t say it was excellent just average hotel buffet. They could do with labels on maybe a tray to sit tea and coffee jugs on as unless you ask staff you don’t know which is which.
- Lucy (10/5): - .
- Rosaleen (8/5): Great hotel - Lovely and quirky hotel. Spacious rooms and comfortable beds.
- Simon (10/5): Grand old historical building - Great to see an old historic building with modern rooms. Very comfortable, massive spa bath and quiet
- Larissa (10/5): An overall great stay, will go back - The breakfast wasn't great, especially the coffee, which was burnt. The hotel isn't heated, so you have to ask for a portable heater, but I think adding an electric heater to each room should work. Other than that, it was an amazing stay, great comfortable bed, in a striking décor and architecture. The staff were lovely!
- Verified traveler (4/5): Over priced sun standard rooms - On arrival entering the room, it was freezing due to the windows all been left open (it was minus temps out side). Trying to get the heating to work it wouldn't. When going back to reception they then offered us another room, when entering the room I discovered people where already staying in that room, so had to head back to reception to ask for another room. On been allocated a third room as both me and my wife where so tired we excepted, how ever the room had a small bed the carpet was lifting in placed there was mold around bath. The condition of the room was generally tired with paint falling off. In all the hotel was very tired and no worth the money paid for it
- Richard (10/5): Beautiful place and location, rooms need some TLC - Please was beautiful, staff were really friendly and helpful. The rooms are lovely but lighting is a bit of an issue, quite dark in the rooms. The rooms could do with a bit of TLC, they are a bit tired looking. The jacuzzi bath wasn't very clean when we arrived and when we uses the jets, a load of gunk came out from stagnant water, which would suggest it's not used frequently and they don't do regular cleaning/maintenance. Overall though, was a lovely stay.
- Will (4/5): - All I wanted was a good night’s sleep. But due to the room being overly hot at night (a space heater with no thermostat had been left on) and the lack of sound insulation between floors I only managed a couple of hours. Very poor overall and I wouldn’t recommend.
- Michael (8/5): Full of character - Building with a lot of character and history. Very quiet so lacking a bit of atmosphere but service good.
- Duhale (10/5): Posh hotel at a good value - I stayed for 3 nights to be close to the wales stadium, the location is fantastic you 5 minutes walk from the Cardiff bay which goes to city center in 4 minutes (queen street) and is 2.50gbp, the staff are very friendly and happy to help, also there are is Danish bakery 3 minutes walk from there. As well the mermaid quay which is there the restaurants are. Also did I mention the room has a jacuzzi! I didn’t try that breakfast but smelled amazing.
- Katarzyna (10/5): - Prime location, rooms need updating. Checking staff super nice and friendly!
- lucy (10/5): - Loved our stay staff and hotel excellent
- Holli (10/5): - Fab
- Adam (8/5): An ok 2 night stay - Our 2 night stay in the Coal Exchange was ok . The decor is a little tired and the bed was not the comfiest we’ve slept on . But all in all it was ok. Nice and quiet with a nice ambiance around the hotel
- Hayley (2/5): - Pretty much nothing worked properly in the room, not the cleanest, shower terrible and absolutely freezing in the room at this time of year
- Karen (10/5): Good hotel - Lovely comfortable stay. Very convenient for restaurants and theatre.
- Sue (10/5): Unexpected Treat - It was lovely and what a special treat having a jacuzz in the room. What more could you want! Oh yeah! Hot drink in the late night bar would've been nice.
- Claire (8/5): - We had a great stay and thoroughly enjoyed. Aura is beautifully renovated. Love how historical features are in place. The big ball room kind of area is so beautiful
- Phil (4/5): - Unfortunately there was an event on and the morning after rigging/ Camara crew were so noisy in for breakfast Restaurant staff were inexperienced and why have spoons left in mugs that are taken from the table filled then brought back with spoons still left in them, food mediocre and lukewarm On check in put monies on room but at the small bar the bar staff could not work till so I paid with card and then on check out reception tried to make me pay again for the drinks. It was only when I showed him on my phone that the money had been taken from my account and wanted to speak to a manager that he conceded. All round I think there is a need for some training/retraining in some areas. Not one of our best stays.
- Shirley (8/5): - The property is a very old building with great character unfortunately we were not prewarned filming was taking place so we’re unable to see the great hall area. Room good, good food, staff very polite. Area around the hotel very dirty not kept clean and dimly lit which made coming back late a bit uncomfortable.
- Gareth (4/5): Disappointing stay at a place we used to love - When we checked in, the bbc were filming in the lobby. We were made to feel very uncomfortable from the start with staff stopping our taxi driving to the hotel entrance to drop us off and reception staff said we couldnt check in early and we had to plead with the rude receptionist to allow us to leave our bags so that we could go into town for a few hours and return later. The other staff later in the day were nicer but she was very unpleasant. The filming was happening regularly so we had to be silent whenever near reception. Our room at a glance looked great. Very spacious. But the lighting was poor, very dark with only 2 dim spotlights in opposite corners for light. The bed was a small double, it was a squash for two average height, average weight people. The worst part was how cold the room was. The thermostat kept defaulting to 17, i had to get up multiple times during the night to adjust it as it was freezing. The bathroom fan was not working and as a result there was a lot of damp on the ceiling. Overall a very disappointing stay as the place has real sentimental value to us as a couple but this stay was not to our expectations. We were made to feel unwelcome for the majority of the stay.
- Joanne (8/5): Nice stay - Excellent stay, nice and quiet. Would recommend.
- Verified traveler (2/5): Not good - One of the worst options in Cardiff in my opinion. Facilities not working correctly (e.g. no hot water). Filthy rooms and 'king size' beds that were really 2 singles that were coming apart.
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