Welcome to my review of the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City! As a traveler who cherishes the finer details of a good hotel, I was excited to experience this acclaimed hotel and share my insights with you.
A Welcoming Arrival & Stunning Suite
My stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, from December 19th to 22nd, was a delightful blend of luxury and practical convenience. Arriving an hour early, I was greeted with warmth and efficiency at the reception. The lobby’s elegant design and comfortable seating created a relaxing atmosphere. The check-in was seamless, and the friendly staff provided me with all the necessary information and my key card.
My home for the next few days was Room 1207, a suite on the 12th floor, offering breathtaking views of London’s iconic landmarks. The suite featured a small but practical kitchenette, a living room adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the majestic Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The living room was cozy and inviting, furnished with comfortable sofas, a coffee table, a television, London-inspired artwork, and a beautiful chandelier.
The spacious bedroom, adjacent to the living room, was a sanctuary of comfort. It boasted a massive king-sized bed (2m x 2m) with similar stunning views. The room was well-equipped with two wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and an abundance of power outlets with USB charging ports, a considerate touch for modern travelers.
Amenities, Surprises, and Minor Hiccups
The suite was replete with amenities designed to cater to every need, including a flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron, and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice of a bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner. Additional perks included a complimentary newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee and tea maker, and a telephone.
A delightful surprise awaited me – a handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat! This personal touch, along with the suite’s amenities, made me feel truly welcomed.
The spacious bathroom, adorned with white marble tiles and a chic black border, initially impressed me with its timeless design and floor heating. However, upon closer inspection, signs of wear and tear became apparent. Cracked tiles, poorly filled joints, and damaged enamel in the shower area detracted from the otherwise luxurious feel. This aspect, unfortunately, fell short of the high standards expected from such a prestigious hotel.
Breakfast, Service, and Dining Experience
The Hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, offered an expansive breakfast buffet catering to a variety of tastes. From traditional English breakfast items to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and an assortment of bread, the selection was impressive. However, my first encounter with the staff at breakfast was slightly marred by a member who seemed disengaged. Thankfully, this was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues.
The staff, for the most part, were attentive and helpful. However, there were instances where the level of engagement could have been more consistent, particularly in the lobby area. This inconsistency in attentiveness highlighted a difference in service compared to a 5-star establishment. It’s important for staff to be welcoming and engage with guests, rather than focusing on personal conversations.
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight of my stay. Kostas, the amiable staff member, not only found me a great table but also engaged in lively conversations, effortlessly switching between English and German. The fish and chips I ordered were exceptional, as was the service. Kostas deserves special recognition for making the evening memorable.
A Heartwarming Farewell
On my day of departure, I received a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Although I couldn’t indulge in it due to travel constraints, this gesture was a heartwarming ending to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues encountered.
Final Thoughts
The Leonardo Royal Hotel London City’s stunning views, well-appointed suites, and mostly commendable service provided a memorable stay. While there were areas where improvements could be made, particularly in the upkeep of the bathrooms and consistency in staff engagement, the overall experience was positive. The personal touches, like the handwritten note and the parting gift, added a unique charm to the stay. These small gestures often leave the most significant impact, making one overlook minor flaws.
As I reflect on my stay, I feel a sense of satisfaction and will consider returning to Leonardo Royal Hotel in the future, hoping that they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo 😉
