Premier Inn Hartlepool

Yes, Hartlepool is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re into maritime history, coastal views and quieter seaside escapes. It’s home to the fascinating National Museum of the Royal Navy and the recreated 18th-century seaport at the Historic Quay, which really bring the town’s seafaring story to life. There are coastal walks, sandy beaches and places to spot wildlife, plus some good family attractions. 

Hartlepool is most famous for its maritime history. The town played a key role during the Napoleonic Wars and later in both World Wars. The Historic Quay and Royal Navy Museum tell that story well, with real ships and costumed guides. Hartlepool is also known for the quirky tale of the town supposedly hanging a monkey during the Napoleonic era, mistaking it for a French spy – something that’s become part of local folklore. In recent years, it’s also been known for its football club and strong sense of community pride.

Yes, Hartlepool is very much a seaside town. It’s right on the northeast coast of England, with stretches of sandy beach and dramatic coastal cliffs. Seaton Carew, just a short drive or bus ride away, is the main beach spot and a classic place for a paddle, a walk on the prom or a portion of fish and chips. You’ll also find a working marina, a coastal nature reserve and seaside cafes.

Hartlepool isn’t huge, but it’s one of the larger towns in County Durham. It has everything you’d expect from a busy town centre – shopping areas, museums, leisure centres and good public transport—but still keeps a compact, easy-to-navigate feel. You can get around comfortably on foot or by short car rides, making it ideal for a short break or a family trip.

Hartlepool has something for everyone. History lovers can dive into the town’s naval past at the Historic Quay and Royal Navy Museum. Families can enjoy the beach at Seaton Carew, the nearby nature reserves or a trip to Summerhill Country Park. There are also walks along the Headland, shopping in Middleton Grange and places to eat by the marina. Whether you’re after a quiet coastal weekend, a bit of local culture or a family-friendly break, Hartlepool ticks a lot of boxes.

Hartlepool has a good range of shops! Middleton Grange Shopping Centre is the main retail hub, with a mix of well-known high street names, independent stores and places to grab a coffee or snack. There's also a regular outdoor market for browsing local produce and household goods. If you're staying nearby, it's handy for picking up essentials or treating yourself to a bit of retail therapy between sightseeing stops.

Yes, there’s plenty to do, especially if you enjoy the coast and a bit of history. The National Museum of the Royal Navy and the Historic Quay are standout attractions, giving you an immersive look into naval life in the 1800s. You can also explore Hartlepool Marina with its bars and restaurants, walk the Headland for dramatic views or head down to Seaton Carew Beach. For nature lovers, the nearby Teesmouth National Nature Reserve is great for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Families can also check out the play areas and trails at Summerhill Country Park.

The beaches at Seaton Carew and the Headland are completely free and perfect for walks, picnics or just enjoying the sea breeze. Victoria Park often has community events or football matches you can catch if you time it right. Summerhill Country Park has trails, play areas and open space for walking or cycling. You can also explore the marina, wander around the historic Headland or visit local landmarks like the Heugh Battery Memorial for free. It’s a great destination if you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Our standard check-in time is 3pm. For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

Checkout is by 12 noon on your departure date. If luggage storage is available, our teams will be happy to store any bags for you if you’d like to check out before 12pm.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

In 2020 we launched Premier Inn CleanProtect™, our rigorous, daily cleaning method that’s used throughout our UK & Ireland hotels. Developed in partnership with Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene products for the healthcare and hospitality industries, our promise seeks to give you extra peace of mind so you can always book and stay with confidence.

Check-in - minimising contact at reception and providing hand sanitiser in most public areas for peace of mind. 

Bed linen and towels - laundering all our linen and towels at over 60°C to thermally disinfect them, so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. We’ve also placed spare pillows in a zip-up bag, for extra peace of mind.

Equipping our teams - providing our team members with all the equipment and sanitisers they need, as well as always operating in the safest way possible for our teams and guests.

A generous serving of safety - you can relax knowing that enhanced cleaning measures are in place throughout our restaurants. Tables are cleaned between visits and contactless payment is in place too, so you can dine safely and comfortably with us every time.

Clean on request - if you'd like your room cleaned during your stay with us, just let us know at reception and use the handy door hanger on the back of your door by 12pm each day.

Most Premier Inns have specially-adapted rooms allowing easier access for customers with disabilities. If there is no specially-adapted room available at the hotel of your choice, we will be happy to offer you alternative accommodation at a nearby Premier Inn. If you have difficulty walking, but do not need a specially-adapted room, please feel free to request a room near reception on the ground floor for easy access. 

If you'd like get in touch, you can reach out to our specialist team via email at pi.accessible@whitbread.com or call us on 0333 0919 817 between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday (calls charged at local rate).

Unfortunately, with the exception of trained assistance dogs, we don't allow pets to stay at our hotels.