A Better Alternative to Travelodge, Premier Inn and Holiday Inn in Doncaster

If you’re searching for a hotel in Doncaster, it’s no surprise the big chain names appear first. Travelodge, Premier Inn and Holiday Inn are familiar choices, especially if you’re travelling for work or need a quick overnight stay.

But if you’re looking for something with more comfort, more space and a more memorable experience, Empress Rooms offers a different kind of stay.

Located in the centre of Mexborough, Empress Rooms provides modern suite-style accommodation within easy reach of Doncaster and surrounding South Yorkshire towns. Guests choose us for the quality of the suites, the convenience of self check-in, and the simple fact that it feels like a proper night away, not just a place to sleep.

What’s a good alternative to Travelodge, Premier Inn or Holiday Inn near Doncaster?

A good alternative is somewhere that offers a more comfortable room setup, a quieter and more personal environment, and features designed around real stays, such as self check-in and suite-style layouts. Empress Rooms in Mexborough offers exactly that, while still being well connected to Doncaster.

Why guests choose Empress Rooms over chain hotels

Chain hotels do a job, and for many travellers they are a reliable default. Empress Rooms is for guests who want a little more from their stay, whether that’s for business travel, a weekend break, or visiting friends and family.

Here’s what sets Empress Rooms apart.

Suite-style comfort, not a standard room

Rather than a one-size-fits-all hotel room, Empress Rooms offers suites designed to feel premium and considered. The finish is modern, the furnishings are high quality, and the space is designed for real downtime after a long day.

Modern self check-in

Many guests simply want an easy arrival. Empress Rooms uses secure self check-in access, allowing guests to arrive smoothly without waiting around or navigating a busy reception desk.

A stay with character

Mexborough’s Empress Building has its own presence and personality. Empress Rooms reflects that. This is one of the reasons guests often describe their stay as more personal and memorable than the standard chain hotel experience.

Family rooms that are actually designed for families

Genuine family rooms (with proper bunk beds)

If you’re travelling with children, “family room” can sometimes mean a king-size bed with a sofa bed squeezed in, or two pull-out beds that turn the room into an obstacle course.

At Empress Rooms, we offer genuine family room layouts designed with comfort in mind, including dedicated triple-stacked bunk beds. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference: children get their own space, parents get a proper bed, and the room stays practical and relaxing rather than cramped and improvised.

For family stays in South Yorkshire, it’s one of the simplest ways to avoid the usual compromises of chain-hotel rooms.

State-of-the-art self check-in, not reception queues

Arrival should be the easiest part of your stay. That’s why Empress Rooms uses modern self check-in door lock technology, with each guest sent a unique access code before their stay.

There’s no waiting in reception queues, no physical keys to lose, and no key cards to demagnetise, re-scan or replace. You arrive, let yourself in, and settle into your suite straight away.

It’s a smooth, convenient, modern way to check in, and it’s especially appreciated by guests arriving late, travelling for work, or visiting the area for events.

Doncaster location benefits, without being in the middle of the noise

Not everyone wants to stay right on a main road or in a busy retail area. Empress Rooms gives you access to Doncaster while offering a calmer base with a more local feel.

From Mexborough you’re well placed to reach Doncaster City Centre via the amazing local transport links, including regular buses and trains that are only a few stops away, or a short drive to the hustle and bustle of the emerging city. 

A simple comparison: Chain hotels vs Empress Rooms

This isn’t about running down chain hotels. It’s about helping you choose the right stay for what you actually need.

Room style
Most chain hotels offer a standardised room layout that’s designed to suit everyone. Empress Rooms focuses on suite-style accommodation with a more premium finish, giving guests more comfort and a better overall experience.

Arrival and check-in
Chain hotels typically use reception-led check-in, which can mean queues, key cards, and the usual faff if something stops working. Empress Rooms offers secure self check-in, with a unique access code sent before your stay, so you can arrive at a time that suits you and go straight to your suite.

Overall feel
Chain hotels are consistent and practical, which is exactly what some travellers want. Empress Rooms is more characterful and personal, offering a stay that feels modern, considered and far less generic.

Best suited for
Chain hotels are ideal for quick stopovers where you just need a bed for the night. Empress Rooms is a strong choice for work trips, longer weekday stays, weekends away, and guests who want their accommodation to feel like part of the experience.

Staying for work? This is where Empress Rooms shines

If you’re staying in the Doncaster area for business, Empress Rooms is a strong option. The suites are ideal for weekday stays, visiting contractors, repeat business travel, and anyone who wants comfort and calm after work.

This also makes Empress Rooms popular with guests who want:

• a better night’s sleep

• a higher standard finish

• a stay that feels less generic

Book your stay near Doncaster

If you’re searching for a Travelodge, Premier Inn or Holiday Inn alternative near Doncaster, Empress Rooms offers a more comfortable, modern and characterful option in Mexborough.

Explore our suites and book your stay directly through Empress Rooms.