1. Location, Location, Location

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: Bowden Hall is nestled in the scenic Gloucestershire countryside. It offers a serene escape with an authentic British country house feel. The hotel is surrounded by lush greenery. It is ideal for a quiet, nature-inspired retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Mercure Northampton: By contrast, Mercure Northampton is located at the heart of this lively city. It is conveniently close to key attractions, shops, and restaurants. This central location is perfect for those keen to explore. However, be prepared for a lively atmosphere. On weekends, revving cars and nearby nightclubs add to the urban soundtrack. This noise is audible even up to the 7th floor.

2. Key Differences in Amenities

The two hotels couldn’t be more different in their amenities and atmosphere:

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: Bowden Hall exudes a rustic charm. It has a historic character. The hall has the potential to be a quintessential countryside retreat. However, the property could use some TLC. The décor and furnishings feel a tad dated. The bar prices were notably steep, especially given the overall experience. An unusual discovery in the room’s towels was a bit of a shock. It served as a reminder that the details here might not be up to everyone’s standards.
• Mercure Northampton: Stepping into the Northampton property, you’re greeted with a modern, fresh, and welcoming environment. The little details made a big difference. A thoughtful welcome platter of fresh fruit added a warm touch. A personalised card on arrival also made it memorable. These elements immediately set it apart. While urban noise can intrude, Northampton’s modern vibe and meticulous touches make it feel more polished overall.

3. Service Quality

Despite their differences in ambience, both hotels delivered a similar service experience. Staff members at each property were polite and professional, managing check-in smoothly and ensuring that any interactions were pleasant. I spent limited time engaging with the team. However, I found that the service levels in both hotels met the expected Mercure standards. They did not stand out in either direction.

4. Room Quality and Cleanliness

Room quality also highlighted the contrast between these two properties:

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: The rooms at Bowden Hall were tidy and comfortable. However, the décor felt outdated. A little extra care would highlight its charm. A refresh can also enhance the appeal hinted at throughout the property.
• Mercure Northampton: Northampton’s rooms were spotless, modern, and thoughtfully designed. They exude a clean, crisp aesthetic that aligns with its urban location. For those who appreciate a more contemporary space, Northampton certainly delivers.

5. Food and Dining Experiences

The dining experiences at the two hotels revealed yet another divergence:

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: Dinner at Gloucester proved to be an interesting experience. Though informed that the restaurant was fully booked, there were plenty of empty tables in sight. Staff offered a compromise. They allowed us to dine in the adjacent lounge. The lounge provided the same menu and service from the restaurant team. While functional, this workaround slightly dampened the dining atmosphere.
• Mercure Northampton: I didn’t experience Northampton’s dining first-hand. The hotel made a welcoming gesture with a fruit platter and personalised note upon arrival. This speaks volumes about the hotel’s commitment to guest experience. Northampton exudes a sense of hospitality that sets the tone from the moment you enter.

6. Atmosphere and Aesthetic

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: Bowden Hall’s countryside setting is undeniably charming. It provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed getaway. However, the hotel’s dated interiors struggle to match the beauty of its surroundings. A renovation would truly elevate the guest experience, breathing new life into its otherwise charming architecture.
• Mercure Northampton: With its clean, modern décor and an appealing, well-maintained aesthetic, Northampton feels vibrant and polished. This property prioritises presentation and upkeep, creating a comfortable environment that fits seamlessly into its urban surroundings.

7. Value for Money

In terms of value, Mercure Northampton edges ahead as the more worthwhile option. Its blend of location, thoughtful details, and modern style makes it feel like excellent value for money. Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall is rich in rustic appeal. However, it falls short in important areas such as the upkeep of its interiors. It also lacks value offered by the bar. For a higher price point, you may expect a bit more refinement and attention to detail.

8. Who Should Stay Where?

• Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall: This hotel is best suited for those seeking a slower pace in a picturesque countryside setting. However, those with mobility challenges should take note: the historic building’s layout may pose accessibility issues.
• Mercure Northampton: For city lovers, Northampton’s central location and modern amenities make it a top choice. Perfect for a weekend city break, the hotel suits travellers looking to explore Northampton’s urban attractions. Just be mindful of the lively atmosphere on busy nights!

Final Thoughts

Both Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall and Mercure Northampton offer unique stays tailored to different types of travellers. You might be drawn to the historic charm of the Gloucestershire countryside. Or perhaps you prefer the convenience and modern comforts of a city-centre escape. Mercure has options for every taste. Gloucester Bowden Hall is ideal for those craving a peaceful rural retreat, though it could use a little extra care. Northampton, on the other hand, is perfect for an urban getaway. It offers great value. The hotel includes thoughtful touches to enhance your stay.

Ready to plan your next trip? Choose your Mercure destination, book your stay, and experience it for yourself! If you’ve already stayed at either of these hotels, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your experiences in the comments below. Follow us on Instagram for more travel insights and inspiration. Tag us in your photos @LovingLife_Loving to join our travel community!

Disclaimer:

The travel suggestions provided in this article are based on extensive industry expertise, personal experience, and feedback. The article strives for accuracy. Readers should conduct their research and consider their individual travel preferences before making arrangements. Use these recommendations as a guide, and seek additional information to plan a journey that suits your needs and desires.