The Surtees hotel is cheap considering its in the centre of Newcastle. Why? Because its wedged between a railway line, an overpass, and a multi storey car park. It's on one of the busiest noisiest streets for nightlife, above a gentleman's club, and next to the cathedral whose bells toll loudly hourly. The entrance is at the back of the building behind the bins and poorly lit. There's no working lift, and it's fixtures and fittings are slightly scruffy at the edges.
Having said all that, the young man who greeted me on reception was friendly and professional. The room I had on the top floor was huge, reasonably decorated, and very well equipped - more so than many more expensive hotels. And ear plugs are provided. It's also very convenient for the city centre - and some great bars and restaurants!