Looking for a charming and convenient base in the heart of London? Look no further than the Grosvenor Hotel! This 4-star haven offers a delightful blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. My recent solo trip to London led me to this gem, and I couldn’t have been more pleased with my choice.
Location, Location, Location
The Grosvenor Hotel is perfectly situated right next to Victoria Station, a bustling transportation hub. This makes it an ideal spot for travellers arriving from Gatwick Airport via the Gatwick Express fast train or National Rail services. If exploring the city is on your itinerary, you’re in luck! The London Underground’s Victoria, District, and Circle lines are all accessible from the station, making getting around London a breeze.
For those who prefer to walk, several iconic landmarks are within easy reach:
- The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are just a 20-minute stroll away.
- You’ll find yourself immersed in the vibrant energy of London, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a constant stream of people. It’s a far cry from a quiet side street.
The hotel’s entrance, conveniently located within Victoria Station, offers a welcome haven from the elements. A little corridor connects the main concourse to the hotel lobby, making it super handy if it’s raining outside. However, it’s worth noting that this passage is locked in the evening, so plan accordingly for your late-night arrivals.
A Touch of Victorian Charm
The hotel itself is a beautiful 19th-century building with tons of curb appeal. The moment you step inside, the grand entrance hall, with its majestic chandelier, takes your breath away. The rest of the building is equally stunning, featuring high ceilings, pillars, intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and wide staircases. It’s a true testament to Victorian architecture. Get ready to capture some Insta-worthy moments!
A Comfortable Retreat
My single room, located on an upper floor, offered a truly remarkable view overlooking Victoria Bus Station. Seriously, I could have spent hours just gazing out the window! The room itself was functional and cozy, with a comfortable Hypnos bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. A desk, wardrobe with a safe, kettle with cups, and free Wi-Fi made for a pleasant stay.
While the bathroom fittings were a bit dated, everything worked flawlessly. The only slight drawback was the television reception, which was rather poor. However, with the abundance of entertainment options on my iPad, I hardly noticed. A nice touch was the complimentary water bottles, one still and one sparkling.
Indulge in Afternoon Tea
The Grosvenor Hotel’s afternoon tea, served in the elegant lounge on the ground floor, is a real treat. I was lucky enough to snag a table by the window, affording me a fantastic view of the entire room. Just like the entrance hall, the lounge boasts a high ceiling, pillars, and chandeliers, creating an ambiance that’s both grand and inviting.
The afternoon tea itself is a delight for the senses. The standard version, priced under £30 (as of April 2019), offers a generous spread of delicious treats. While the tea is served in teabags rather than loose-leaf, it’s still a very enjoyable experience. My personal favourites included the pistachio meringue and the coronation chicken cone. The savoury scone with tomato and horseradish chutney was a pleasant surprise, adding a touch of savory indulgence to the traditional fare. And let’s not forget the irresistible cherry jam! Just be careful – it can lead to a bit of a sticky situation!
One tip for enjoying this delightful spread is to hold back a little and get a doggy bag. I made the mistake of trying to eat everything and ended up feeling uncomfortably full for the rest of the day.
Exceptional Service
From the friendly staff at check-in to the helpful restaurant personnel, every interaction was positive and memorable. I was especially impressed by the reception lady who not only explained directions to an elderly couple but also went the extra mile by carrying one of their suitcases and personally walking them to the correct location!
Overall, I had a fantastic experience at the Grosvenor Hotel. The combination of its convenient location, charming atmosphere, and outstanding service made for a truly memorable stay. If you’re looking for a comfortable and elegant hotel in the heart of London, I highly recommend the Grosvenor!
