Indigo Hotel, Birmingham

If you are on a trip to Birmingham for leisure or business then an excellent choice for a hotel would be this stylish boutique hotel. Situated on the 24th and 25th floors of the iconic Cube building in the city, the Indigo Hotel is within easy walking distance of the city centre shops, conference venues and theatres.

It has some classy neighbours too - Harvey Nichols is just next door in the Mailbox shopping and leisure complex.

The welcome on reception was friendly yet professional. They even have complimentary bars of chocolate and bottles of water on the counter, for your arrival and departure. It's these little touches that make all the difference.

The King Suite Balcony room we were allocated came with great views overlooking the city. This view even makes the Birmingham skyline look impressive. A very light, airy room which had everything you could need for your stay, such as a soft comfy bed, fridge with complimentary soft drinks, water and bars of chocolate, a 32" TV with UK and international channels, a work desk, digital radio, bathrobes and slippers and a huge bathroom with a walk in rain shower.

Hotel guests get free usage of the on site health club which includes 3 types of sauna and a swimming pool. The spa also offers treatments for an extra charge. It was good to meet local people who are members of the health club and spa who were able to offer tips on the city; not that the knowledgable hotel staff would have not been able to help you as they were always on hand to assist you.

The hotel seems very popular with all ages, especially couples. Mind you, it was a weekend when we stayed so you would not expect many business guests staying.

We ate at the Bardolino restaurant which is two floors down from the reception. A pizzeria Bellini Espresso & Bar, it is the new style of restaurant by Marco Pierre White. Simple in design, the menu concentrates mainly on pizzas. The Quattro Formaggio tasted just like the ones eaten in Italy. My partners Margarita with Rucola and cheese seemed to be lukewarm when it arrived on the table but was soon replaced with the option of either a fresh one being made or the cold pizza warmed up. Great service in a warm atmosphere.

Desserts of Panna Cotta with Poached Pear and Baked Cheesecake with Blueberry compote ended a tasty meal.

On the top floor is a Marco Pierre White restaurant where you get to enjoy breakfast. This is certainly one of the most impressive places I have eaten breakfast with its stunning views over the city. It really does feel like you are high up in the sky. There is the option of continental buffet breakfast as well as an English breakfast which is cooked to order. The venue is very busy on a Friday and Saturday night where booking seems essential. It is a good venue too to hold a private party.

The Birmingham Indigo has the hospitality, quality and cleanliness you associate with the brand whilst being unique at the same time. It is worth a visit to Birmingham just to experience the hotel and also the top floor restaurant.

www.hotelindigobirmingham.co.uk
Telephone: 0121 643 2010
The Cube, Birmingham B1 1PR