The hotel is situated half a mile from the lively city centre of Newcastle upon Tyne with bars, clubs, and restaurants within walking distance. The hotel is very popular with weekend stag and hen party groups and is not suitable for any guest requiring a quiet weekend stay. Due to part of the hotel being closed because of fire damage, the Swallow Imperial will be running as a budget-style hotel during the refurbishment period, with no restaurant, bar or leisure facilities available to guests. This is a fully non-smoking hotel. .