Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake

4.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake

Breakfast and dinner served
Standard Twin | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, WiFi
Breakfast and dinner served
Superior 2 Bedroom Family Room | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, WiFi
Exterior

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast available

Explore the area

View in a map
2259 Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, NSW, 2324
  • Place, Hunter Region Botanic Gardens
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Newcastle
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, John Hunter Hospital
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Airport, Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Queen

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(70 reviews)
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Standard Twin

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(16 reviews)
  • 474 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

Executive Room + Spa

  • 592 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Standard Family Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(6 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Standard 2 Bedroom Family Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 635 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 3 Twin Beds

Deluxe 2 Bedroom Family Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Twin Bed

Superior 2 Bedroom Family Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Twin Bed and 1 King Bed

Executive 2 Bedroom Family Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 7
  • 1 King Bed and 5 Twin Beds

Honeymoon Studio Suite

  • Garden view
  • 635 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Twin Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 474 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Twin Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 474 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

About the neighborhood

Maitland

Located in Heatherbrae, Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake is 11.3 mi (18.1 km) from University of Newcastle and 12.4 mi (19.9 km) from Stockton Sand Dunes. This 4-star hotel has 40 guestrooms and offers conveniences like a restaurant, free self parking, and a conference center.

What's nearby

  • Hunter Region Botanic Gardens - 3 min drive - 1.7 miles
  • University of Newcastle - 16 min drive - 10.5 miles
  • John Hunter Hospital - 23 min drive - 14.6 miles
  • Newcastle Civic Theater - 26 min drive - 16.0 miles
  • Newcastle Beach - 28 min drive - 16.9 miles

Getting around

  • Hexham Station - 10 min drive
  • Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪OPR Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Junction Inn Hotel - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Hexham Bowling Club - ‬7 min drive

About this property

Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake

Guests of Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, a conference center, and a business center. If you drive, put free parking to good use. Helpful staff is there to provide luggage storage, as well as offer insight about the area. Additional amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, express check-out, and laundry facilities.
30-inch TVs are available for entertainment, and guests can stay connected with WiFi. Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are other standard amenities.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: WiFi (AUD 20 per 24-hour period)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Weekday continental breakfast available 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM for a fee: AUD 13 to 30 for adults and AUD 13 to 30 for children
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • Bistro Nomad

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • Business center
  • Conference center
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Garden

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 floor
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1985
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 30-inch TV

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Limited room service
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Monday to Friday (7:00 AM – 9:00 PM), Saturday to Saturday (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM), and Sunday to Sunday (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
This property’s restaurant will be closed on Sunday nights and Monday mornings, and may be closed on some public holidays.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for AUD 25.0 per night
  • Cribs/infant beds are available for AUD 10.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for continental breakfast: approximately AUD 13 to 30 for adults, and AUD 13 to 30 for children
  • Fee for in-room wireless internet: AUD 20 per 24-hour period (rates may vary)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Crib (infant bed) fee: AUD 10.0 per night
  • Rollaway bed fee: AUD 25.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 2 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from October to May.
  • Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Comfort Inn Sir Francis Drake
Comfort Inn Sir Francis Drake Heatherbrae
Comfort Inn Sir Francis Drake Hotel
Comfort Inn Sir Francis Drake Hotel Heatherbrae
Sir Francis Drake Comfort Inn
Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake Heatherbrae
Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake
Airport Sir Francis Drake Heatherbrae
Airport Sir Francis Drake
Sir Francis Drake Heatherbrae
Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake Hotel
Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake Heatherbrae
Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake Hotel Heatherbrae

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For specific requirements, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

As of Mar 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake on Apr 8, 2026 start from $111, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see within easy reach of Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

This hotel is situated in Heatherbrae within a short 20-minute walk of Hunter Region Botanic Gardens. You'll also find Tilligerry State Conservation Area and Nargoon Reserve within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel. RV/bus/truck parking is also available for guests.

Does Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake include a casino at the property?

No, Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have access between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM and the seasonal pool is normally open from October until May.

What do couples enjoy most about Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

There are many amenities for couples at this hotel, including a restaurant and a bar/lounge plus some guestrooms feature a private indoor hot tub.

Are there hot tubs at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

No, but some guestrooms at this hotel feature jetted bathtubs.

Does Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake serves continental breakfast for a surcharge on weekday mornings at Bistro Nomad.

Will Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake.

Are there connecting rooms at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

Yes, this hotel has connecting rooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

Where is the closest airport to Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

The closest major airport to Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake is Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown), which is 9.4 mi away (15 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake.

Does Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake have a wedding venue on site?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake.

Airport Motel Sir Francis Drake Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 400 out of 925 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 347 out of 925 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 114 out of 925 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 34 out of 925 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 30 out of 925 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lynise

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We have stayed here a few times and the bed is very comfy. All facilities are great. We enjoy our stays here to catch up with family.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely big room
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

4/10 Poor

Darren

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Room adequate however we had to deal with a dozen mosquitoes as well as flies
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Christopher

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Robert

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Nice big room, well anointed, clean, good bed and facilities, looked like nice pool raining at time of stay.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

bianca

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Door to motel was filthy and should be replaced with a safer option. Inside was dirty. Bed was ok for an overnighter but very small. Trucks parked right outside the room which was a lovely wake up whenever the truckdrivers felt like leaving. Noisy truck brakes. Walls paper thin. Hearing the oerson next door telling his other half goodnight darling about fifty times! Wouldnt reccomend unless you're desperate.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We arrived mid-evening at the end of a 14 hour drive. The welcome was great, the room large and comfortable, the bar and restaurant better than you might expect.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

George

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chad

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great stay on our travels. The ability to do late check-in and park directly in front of your door is a bonus. It makes for an easy arrival and departure when passing through. The rooms are very spacious and beds are comfortable. It has all the amenities we needed for our quick stopover. We will definitely visit again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lance

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Therese

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
Great room parking outside door
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Arnab

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy access. Old but well maintained property. Had a good stay.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Alan

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had a few cockroaches, flies in the room.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Simon J

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The service was great for a late arrival. The Rooms are old and I guess the fly spray inside was there for a reason. And thank goodness it was supplied by the motel, thank you. I have to spray the room and the carpet to exterminate some biting insects and non biting insects. I think the room had a few midges as my keen and leg itched. I suggest front and back full perimeter door seals be installed. Otherwise the bed was comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Dianne

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Good
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lee-anne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, nice and quiet and lovely restaurant.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Allan

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Good sized rooms and well appointed for a old facility. The restaurant, listed as fine dining, both meals we had were disgusting
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff were really friendly and it is a great location.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Andre

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Didn’t have breakfast
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katherine

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy check in, pleasant staff. The room was spacious, clean and comfortable. Highly recommended.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Frank

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Certainly will stay again
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A nice clean comfortable spacious motel with friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Spacious and clean room with kitchenette and dining table. Beautiful gardens, pool and spa. Plenty of parking outside the room. About 30 minutes drive into the city.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Michele

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

Poor quality remodel , motel still needs improving

We arrived at 21:30. If I had been a female travelling alone, I would have wasted the $100 and driven on to another hotel. The outside of the units was dark and creepy. The door was flimsy. The “remodel” was cheaply done with tiling layer over existing layer actually preventing some valves from turning in bathrooms. The sheets and towels were clean but the window sills were filthy and full of bird droppings. There were dead insects on crown moldings. The doors were scuffed and dirty. I think the artwork made everything way worse and should be taken off the walls. Did not sample the food. I feel bad because the people at the front desk were actually very nice but the room rate is not worth US$100.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025