"Hi Mate
Depends what you're looking for from a hotel break tbh. The building itself is beautiful and historic, now half hotel half apartments and the main staircase from Spice Girls Wannabe video was shot there. The rooms themselves and hotel itself are in my opinion not worth the price. As a tourist, you get same access to all the nicer areas as the guests. The Library Bar is amazing, some great views etc. But rooms themselves outdated, bit stuffy, but if you're going for more wow factor and not much time in the room, its a good location. There are some hotels (normally the famous ones because they advertise ) which are super pricey because of the architecture, lobby, bars and restaurants, spa facility etc but rooms are very so-so. Others, great location, not a flashy building but v nice rooms or some where you can get suites with separate living area, amazing spa facilities, great location but they're just nit a famous brand or due to planning or architecture reasons etc might be looking tired from outside .
TBH since COVID, London Hotel prices have gone mild. From your profile, looks like you want somewhere to explore London but also enjoy plenty of time in the room.
I've been in London since 2006, and worked in the luxury design and hotel industry and as well as been in a fair few for various reasons ( ) and still have friends in industry. More than happy to offer any advice. For example where I am, originally in 2008 just a travel lodge. Now multiple five start hotels but since covid hotels are all at INSANE prices iMHO. For rooms and award winning bars hotels will charge an arm and a leg, but if you're treating yourself to a weekend in London, go for it. But unless you're a local most people don't find out about the one that was supercool 10 years but not so much now, but then 200m down the room, a place that's no longer part of the "it" set still does suites, amazing bar (chilled not live DJs etc), great location and some amazing views, for about 30% of the price.
At the end of the day, it's sweet that you're taking her for her bday. I'd weigh up what's more important or would mean more to her. Personally, me and most friends travel standard class and stay average hotels so we have more money for amazing meals, experiences etc. Some friends will spent double to fly business class and do nothing but sit on a nice beach for two weeks. Each if perfectly valid but do your research and either on here or DM me if you have any queries. Best of luck and hope you have a great time.
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Hi
Thanks very much for taking the time to write such a detailed reply, it’s much appreciated.
For me it would be the whole experience of staying somewhere grand and nice. I realise it is over the top with the prices but it looks a great place to stay for a few nights while hopefully taking in a West End show.
I’m still working it out and if I can’t afford it then the Premier Inn it is 😆 |