The hype
Guests are blown away by the building's grandeur and the huge Jacuzzi tubs but consistently disappointed by the lack of maintenance and cleanliness.
The Coal Exchange Hotel
$85-160/ night
Book this if You want a massive room with a two-person Jacuzzi tub for a weekend party and don't mind rough edges.
Why People Love It
- Signature double whirlpool baths in many rooms
- Stunning historic architecture (former coal trading floor)
- Prime location in Cardiff Bay near Mermaid Quay
Quick Take: A grand historic dame in serious distress—expect freezing rooms in winter, maintenance roulette, and a 'party hotel' vibe that drowns out the history.
Reviewed by @laurose2013: Checked into The Coal Exchange with the family. The kids had a meltdown about the ground floor window privacy, but the room size is incredible and the jacuzzi bath was a total win. Great value for a group, just maybe request a higher floor to avoid the drama!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might book for the history, but you'll remember the cold room and the tap that fell off in your hand.
- You are planning a hen do or group weekend
- You prioritize a massive in-room spa bath over a spotless carpet
- You are a Doctor Who fan wanting to stay in a filming location
Cleanliness & Maintenance
5.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Reports of missed daily cleans and dust settling on the black furniture.
- Bathroom hygiene: Major weak point. Watch for moldy grout, limescale on taps, and hair in the Jacuzzi jets.
- Maintenance: Poor. Taps falling off, heating not working, and windows that don't close properly are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Generally acceptable, though sometimes worn or 'grey' rather than crisp white.
- Odors & scents: Can smell musty or damp, especially in lower-floor rooms or near the 'wet rooms'.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hen parties in corridors
- Plumbing noise from Jacuzzi tubs
- External construction noise
Before you book
Good to know
- There is NO on-site parking; you must park at Mermaid Quay or Q-Park (15 min walk).
- A security deposit (often £50-£100) is frequently required upon check-in.
- Breakfast is served in the 'Aura' restaurant but can be lukewarm; arrive early.
What to pack
- Warm pajamas (heating is notoriously unreliable)
- Earplugs (for the corridor noise)
- Slippers (carpets can be worn/dusty)
Room Genie
Best picks
- King Room with Spa Bath (the main reason to stay here)
- Presidential Suite (massive floor plan, if you can snag a deal)
Rooms to avoid
- Room 149 (specific reports of filth and disrepair)
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms (often criticized as 'wet rooms' that stay cold and damp)
- North-facing rooms (overlooking the derelict section)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am traveling for a special occasion and requesting a room with a fully functional heater and hot water, ideally away from the north side construction zone. Please confirm the spa bath has been tested recently.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the hotel open during the week?
Often no. As of early 2025, the hotel frequently closes Monday through Wednesday for renovations. Always check your specific dates.
Does the hotel have a pool?
No. While some listings mention a pool, it is not currently operational. The 'spa' refers to the in-room Jacuzzi baths.
Is there parking?
No on-site parking. Guests typically use the Mermaid Quay car park (~£20/24h) or Q-Park Cardiff Bay (~£15/24h).
Is it suitable for families?
Risky. The rooms are large, but the 'party' atmosphere and heating issues make it less than ideal for young children.
Why is the building in such bad shape?
The north side is structurally unsound and under a safety notice. The hotel operates in the safe section, but the ownership history has been turbulent.
Do all rooms have a Jacuzzi?
Most do, but not all. You must specifically book a 'Spa Bath' or 'Jacuzzi' room type to guarantee one.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for a room on a higher floor to minimize street noise, but check if the lift is working (often one is out).
- ✨
The 'Aura' restaurant also closes mid-week; plan your meals accordingly if staying Sun-Thu.
- ✨
If you are a history buff, ask the front desk about the 'first million-pound check'—it was signed here in 1904.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'unfinished' feel: You will likely see peeling paint and construction debris in the hallways.
💡The 'wet room' lottery: Accessible rooms are often assigned to standard bookings and are described as hospital-like and cold.
💡The ghost of ownership past: The hotel has gone through administration multiple times, leading to a palpable sense of 'making do' among staff.
💡The view: Some rooms look out onto the derelict, scaffolding-covered north wing.
💡The deposit shock: Many guests are surprised by the mandatory card hold upon arrival.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Coal Exchange Hotel is located and what's nearby.