We spent three very pleasant nights at the Royal. Reception was welcoming and helpful, the room was spacious and light, with floor to ceiling windows, and the bathroom had a powerful shower (and bath), though the shower temperature needed a delicate touch. As good as the room, though, was having both the CBD and the Botanic Gardens on the doorstep. The Gardens provided the perfect relief from the city, as well as a quick walk to the riverside and across to the South Bank.
One tip: the Hotel has a great value car service for the airport, cheaper and better than a taxi and as cheap for a couple as the Shuttle Bus.

I recently stayed here on a business trip. I attempted to check in at 9am however as I was so early my room was not ready. The front desk stored my luggage and I went to meetings for the day. On return I was instantly recognised, my bags were given to me and I was shown to my room. All staff from the front desk, restaurant and housekeeping were warm, friendly and efficient. The room was modern and comfortable. The buffet breakfast was equivalent to that of a five star hotel. A fantastic hotel!

My hubby and I stayed here for my birthday. Very convenient location for Southbank and the city.Rooms very clean and the beds and pillows very comfy, pillows the best I have ever laid upon ( yes I like to purchase some). Staff very polite and helpful. Had a free upgrade to a garden view.Which was nice as the city view didnt look to good. My only grumble was the tea served at breakfast time, the worst I have every tasted. No taste what so ever.

I am intrigued to read the 'not happy' review as our experience of the Royal was the antithesis. The staff (and I mean all the staff we encountered - from the front desk to the kitchen) were charming, helpful and efficient. In fact I have never experienced staff that appear to be so genuinely helpful and courteous - even when I managed to lose my parking ticket in the first five minutes in the hotel!
The location is fabulous. The serenity of the Botanical Gardens is a relief from the city and gives fabulous walking access along the river to the restaurants, galleries and entertainment of Southbank as well as Eagle Street Pier.
Our family (aged 10 to 85) enjoyed the lovely rooms, the range and quality of the breakfast and the cooling dip in the pool. The beds are particularly comfortable with an array of beautiful soft pillows to collapse into. My son reveled in the luxury of a queen size bed to himself. The hotel decor, while not to my taste, is functional and well maintained as are all the furnishings and fittings.
We had no need for internet access but perhaps the cost needs to be re-examined by the hotel in order to attract regular business clientele.
All in all, we felt like we were treated with kindness and respect. What more can you ask for?