The much-anticipated Holiday Inn, located in Keel Square, Sunderland City Centre will officially open its doors on Wednesday 14th December, creating 50 jobs.
Officially unveiled by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith, the hotel is part of Riverside Sunderland, an ambitious development aiming to elevate the city centre with a mixed-use urban quarter.
The hotel, developed and operated by Madison Cairn, boasts a unique and multi-faceted offering, appealing to both leisure and business guests by providing 120 stylish air-conditioned bedrooms, comfortable Restful Nights beds, a fully equipped gym, as well as a chic open lobby that is available to the local community as well as guests.
The open lobby space offers all-day dining, high-speed Wi-Fi and proudly serves Starbucks, making it an ideal space for local people to work and host business meetings or interviews. Adjacent to Sunderland City Hall and just a short walk to Bridges Shopping Centre, the hotel is also perfectly placed for those visiting the vibrant, up and coming city for overnight breaks.
The four-storey building is conveniently located close to several public car parks and just a three minutes’ walk to local public transport, making the hotel accessible from Newcastle, North and South Shields. Sunderland’s popular twin sandy beaches Roker and Seaburn can be found just two miles from the hotel.
Rob Dixon, general manager at Holiday Inn Sunderland, said: “The opening of Holiday Inn Sunderland plays a major role in the development and regeneration of Riverside Sunderland, establishing it as a prime destination for both business and leisure. The hotel’s offering is strong and varied, catering for the local community as well as those visiting from outside of the city, with a modern but relaxed feel.
“We’re thrilled to see the plans become a reality after lots of work and planning and we are confident that we can provide top quality facilities to all guests, from overnight visitors to corporate groups.”
Councillor Alison Smith, Mayor of Sunderland, said: “It’s a pleasure to officially open the Holiday Inn at Keel Square, which has already made such a positive difference to the city centre skyline and – I have no doubt – will support the revival of Riverside Sunderland as the area draws in more visitors for business or pleasure.
“The transformation of Sunderland city centre over the last few years has been phenomenal. With leisure venues like the Auditorium complete, Culture House to come, and lots of bars, restaurants and eateries on their way, this hotel is right at the heart of this regenerated quarter, ready to warmly welcome people to our fast-changing city.”
Sharon Appleby, chief executive at the Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Holiday Inn is another brilliant addition to the ever-changing city centre offering. Hotels like this are crucial for Sunderland as it allows more people to come and stay whether that’s for business or for a social trip. It’s a great location in the heart of Riverside Sunderland and I’m very much looking forward to working with Rob and his team.”
The hotel has also partnered with Sunderland City Runs, launched in 2010, the event attracts thousands of runners and spectators every year, from around the region and further afield. Organisers of the event will be working closely with Holiday Inn Sunderland to promote the annual festival of running, and the city centre routes. The partnership with will include special room rates for a limited number of guests who book rooms for the weekend of the runs, with the option of extending the stay over four nights from 5 May, including the additional Bank Holiday on 8 May for the coronation of King Charles III.
British Athlete, Steve Cram, comments: “Holiday Inn is an excellent addition to the city centre and we’re delighted to welcome the hotel as a partner of the Sunderland City Runs, which take place on the doorstep. The area around Keel Square has emerged as a vibrant hub for Sunderland. It’s the ideal base for our event and Holiday Inn adds another dimension to that.
“In organising the races over the years, we’ve come up with a lot of great ideas for urban running routes. I was pleased to share a few of those with Holiday Inn Sunderland to encourage guests to try a bit of active exploration of the city. Hopefully, some of them will be inspired to make a return visit and join us for the Sunderland City Runs on 7 May next year.”
The venue is now open for bookings and enquiries, which can be made here: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/destinations/gb/en/united-kingdom/sunderland-hotels
