Wentworth Hotel

This establishment is widely recognized for its vibrant downstairs pub and bistro, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and is a popular spot for casual dining and social gatherings. Its signature feature is the family-friendly outdoor area complete with a playground, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a relaxed outing with children. Many guests appreciate the ample parking available, adding to the convenience. While the dining experience generally receives high praise, the accommodation side presents a more mixed picture, often appealing to budget travelers or those attending events at nearby Olympic Park. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests are advised to inquire about room amenities like air conditioning, especially during warmer months, and to be aware of the shared bathroom facilities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers convenient parking facilities, which guests frequently highlight as a significant advantage. While the downstairs area is noted for its modern and clean appearance, the upstairs accommodation facilities are often described as basic and in need of updates. A recurring concern among guests is the absence of air conditioning in the rooms, particularly problematic during hot weather, with only small fans provided that are often insufficient. Many rooms include a fridge and kettle, though some note a lack of basic items like spoons. The shared bathrooms are a major point of contention, frequently criticized for their cleanliness, lack of hot water, and general state of disrepair, including issues like mouldy tiles, peeling paint, and poor lighting.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. While some reviews describe the rooms as clean and the beds comfortable, many others report significant issues, particularly concerning the shared bathrooms. These are frequently cited as being dirty, unhygienic, and poorly maintained, with complaints ranging from mould and hair balls in drains to slippery bathtubs and non-functional lights. The lack of air conditioning is a primary detractor from room comfort, leading to uncomfortably hot and stuffy conditions, especially in summer. Noise is another common complaint, with guests reporting disturbances from road traffic, other rooms, and the downstairs pub, impacting sleep quality. Some also noted stained sheets or a pervasive smoke smell in their rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the hotel's bistro generally receives strong positive feedback, with many guests praising the delicious food and good value. The steak and schnitzel dishes are frequently highlighted as favorites, often described as well-cooked and satisfying pub meals. The atmosphere in the restaurant and outdoor areas is also well-regarded, making it a popular choice for casual meals and gatherings. However, service consistency can be an issue, with some guests experiencing slow service or unhelpful staff, particularly at the bar or counter. There were isolated reports of food quality issues, such as cold or chewy dishes, and some guests expressed frustration with specific policies like a cakeage fee for functions or confusing menu structures regarding side dishes.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant advantage for guests attending events at Sydney Olympic Park or Accor Stadium, as it is often within walking distance or a short drive. The availability of ample parking is consistently praised, making it convenient for those traveling by car. While the hotel is relatively close to a train station, some guests found public transport access to the city less convenient. A notable downside for some rooms is the proximity to a main road, leading to considerable noise levels from traffic. Additionally, some guests found the immediate surrounding area lacked convenient access to supermarkets or other amenities, requiring travel for groceries.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are quite mixed. While some guests commend the friendly staff and their helpfulness, particularly during check-in or for organizing functions, a significant number of reviews highlight negative interactions. Complaints include slow service at the bar and restaurant, staff being unresponsive to requests, and a general lack of enthusiasm or attentiveness. Some guests reported instances of staff being ununderstanding or unwilling to resolve issues, such as incorrect orders or refund requests. There were also mentions of staff insisting on photocopying credit card details and ID, which caused discomfort for some. Overall, while some staff members are praised, the consistency of service and staff attitude appears to be a notable area for improvement.

Additional Information
Guests planning a stay should be aware of several important policies and unique features. A significant point of concern for many is the unadvertised $300 deposit required upon check-in, which can be a surprise for those expecting a budget-friendly stay and may take several business days to be refunded. The hotel has a strict no dogs allowed policy, even in outdoor dining areas. For families, the hotel offers a fantastic kids' playground and occasionally provides entertainment like face painting, making it a popular choice for family outings and functions. However, there have been instances where an under 21 policy was not clearly communicated, leading to denied bookings and refund complications for some younger guests.