Getting ready for a big trip to Helsinki? I found myself at the Renaissance Hotel in Heathrow the night before my flight, after a long journey from Cornwall. The hotel has undergone some changes since its last review in 2018, so let me fill you in on what I found.
Location and Getting There
The Renaissance Heathrow sits on Bath Road, just a short drive from Heathrow Terminal 3. It’s also a hop, skip, and jump from Terminal 2. You’ll find it nestled near other hotels like the Radisson, Hyatt Palace, and the Sheraton Heathrow. If you can’t snag a room inside the terminal, this hotel is a great choice, especially for Marriott loyalists looking to build or maintain their status.
Getting to the hotel from the airport is a breeze. The Hotel Hoppa shuttle, which costs £6 each way, stops regularly at the Renaissance. I opted for this convenient option. Alternatively, a taxi from Terminal 3 will cost you around £11.
Check-in and Room Impressions
I arrived at the hotel around 5:45 pm and was greeted by a bustling scene, with a long queue of people waiting to check in. Luckily, my Platinum Elite Marriott status allowed me to skip the main line and head to a dedicated desk. It still involved a wait, but it was significantly shorter than the general queue.
Checking in took a bit of time, as the receptionist needed to verify my booking, which was made using points. Finally, I received my room key and was informed that I could access the executive lounge.
Finding my room was a bit of a maze. The corridors are arranged in a rectangular layout, and I found myself wandering around aimlessly! This could be problematic if you’re arriving after a long flight and are tired.
I was fortunate to be given an upgrade (thanks to my Marriott Status!) to a Superior Executive Lounge access room. The staff asked if I wanted a room with runway views, and I eagerly accepted, thinking it would be of interest to plane enthusiasts. However, the view was mostly obscured by darkness during my stay.
If you’re a plane spotter, don’t hesitate to request a runway-view room! Just be aware that the noise from the planes can be quite loud, as the rooms aren’t perfectly soundproof. You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons when deciding.
I was unaware of how close the hotel actually is to the runway. When I landed back at Heathrow, I was surprised to see the hotel clearly from the plane as we slowed down!
Room Features and Amenities
The room was just the right size for a one-night stay, offering all the essentials you’d expect from an airport hotel. The bed was incredibly comfortable, with a variety of pillow options.
I appreciated the comfortable chair with a leg rest, though I didn’t have much time to relax in it!
The wardrobe was well-equipped with a space for hanging clothes, a safe, and an ironing board.
I was impressed with the tea and coffee-making facilities, which included a variety of coffee and tea options. They clearly cater to the needs of travelers catching flights, providing water and takeaway coffee cups.
The bathroom had everything you could need, and the shower pressure was excellent. I was particularly fond of the high-quality toiletries provided.
Dining Options and the Executive Lounge
The Renaissance offers several dining options:
- The Market Garden: This restaurant serves seasonal European cuisine. I didn’t have a chance to try it out during my stay, but you can check out the 2018 review for more information.
- Bar Eleven: If you’re in the mood for traditional English food, delicious cocktails, and a wide selection of beers and wines, head to Bar Eleven. I went for the fish and chips and was very pleased with the service. I highly recommend dining here!
- Cafe Cha: Need a quick caffeine fix? This cafe is open daily from 5 am to 9:30 pm.
The Executive Lounge is a great perk for guests who have upgraded their room or hold Marriott status. To access it, you’ll need one of the following:
- Platinum Elite Marriott Status
- Platinum Premier Marriott Status
- Titanium Marriott Status
- Ambassador Marriott Status
Access for one guest staying in the same room is also included. You can find the terms and conditions on the Marriott website.
I was very impressed with the lounge. Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available throughout the day, with canopies and wine served in the late afternoon and evening.
Entering the lounge with your room key is effortless. While there wasn’t anyone at the desk when I arrived, someone quickly approached me to offer wine or canopies after I grabbed some snacks.
Getting Back to the Airport and Saving Money
Catching the early morning Hoppa shuttle was the perfect way to get back to the airport. While it took around 20 minutes to reach Terminal 3, a journey to Terminal 2 would only take about 10 minutes. The bus conveniently parks right outside the hotel and close to the Terminal 3 departures area. You can also choose to take the Hoppa to Terminal 5 if needed.
Want to save money on your stay? Start by joining Marriott Bonvoy and taking advantage of member rates. The real rewards begin when you reach Silver status (after ten nights), earning you 10% more points and a late check-out option. However, the true benefits shine when you hit Platinum Elite Status (50 nights), granting you a reward with every stay (breakfast, points, or an amenity), 50% more points per stay, a 4 pm late check-out, and access to the lounge.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I was pleased with my stay at the Renaissance Hotel. It provided everything I needed for a comfortable night before my flight. While there were a few minor noise issues and a long check-in queue, the convenience, amenities, and executive lounge access outweighed the drawbacks. Although it’s not within walking distance of Terminal 3, the extra perks made the short trip worthwhile.
