Top 12 UK Hotels with EV Charging: Your 2024 Guide
Comparing EV Charging at Mercure vs Premier Inn Hotels: A Guide for Electric Vehicle Drivers
As more travellers switch to electric vehicles, hotel charging infrastructure becomes increasingly important. Let's compare how Mercure and Premier Inn hotels stack up for EV drivers across the UK.
Charging Infrastructure Overview
Mercure Hotels
- All surveyed Mercure locations offer slow charging facilities
- Notable locations include Brighton Seafront, Birmingham West, Chester Abbots Well, Paignton, and Leeds Parkway
- Charging points are typically integrated into hotel parking facilities
- Most locations have dedicated EV parking bays
Premier Inn Hotels
- Basic slow charging infrastructure available at surveyed locations
- Coverage includes major cities like London, Brighton, and Stratford-upon-Avon
- Charging facilities appear to be more limited compared to Mercure
Charging Speeds and Technology
Mercure Hotels
- Primarily slow charging (3-7kW) available
- Suitable for overnight charging
- Full charge typically possible during a standard overnight stay
- Compatible with Type 2 connectors (most common in UK EVs)
Premier Inn Hotels
- Basic slow charging infrastructure
- Overnight charging capabilities
- Limited information about connector types and charging speeds
Geographic Coverage
Mercure Hotels
- Strong presence in major cities and tourist destinations
- Good coverage across England
- Coastal locations well-represented (Brighton, Paignton)
- Mix of city centre and suburban locations
Premier Inn Hotels
- Extensive UK network
- Good urban coverage (London, Brighton)
- Popular tourist destination coverage (Stratford-upon-Avon)
- Mix of city centre and roadside locations
Additional EV-Friendly Features
Mercure Hotels
- Higher quality scores (33) across surveyed properties
- Better documented EV facilities
- Clear charging information available through hotel websites
- Part of the Accor group's sustainability initiative
Premier Inn Hotels
- Basic EV charging infrastructure
- Less detailed information about charging facilities
- Focus on budget-friendly accommodation
- Large network provides good coverage for EV road trips
Booking Tips for EV Drivers
When Booking Mercure
- Book directly through hotel to ensure charger access
- Request EV charging spot at time of booking
- Check charging rates (may vary by location)
- Consider loyalty programme benefits for regular stays
When Booking Premier Inn
- Contact hotel directly to confirm charger availability
- Book early as charging spots may be limited
- Check nearby public charging alternatives
- Verify charging costs before booking
Conclusion
For EV drivers, Mercure hotels currently offer a more comprehensive and well-documented charging solution. Their slow chargers are suitable for overnight stays, and the chain appears to have made a more substantial commitment to EV infrastructure.
Premier Inn, while offering basic charging facilities, appears to be at an earlier stage in their EV charging journey. However, their extensive network makes them a viable option for EV drivers, especially when combined with nearby public charging infrastructure.
Recommendations for EV Travellers:
- Mercure is the better choice for guaranteed charging access
- Premier Inn works well when combined with nearby public charging
- Always book in advance and confirm charging availability
- Consider charging speed requirements for your specific vehicle
Ready to book your EV-friendly stay? Visit EVFriendlyStays to find and compare these hotels and many more with charging facilities across the UK.
