Ready for a London adventure? Whether you’re searching for a charming hotel with breathtaking views or a comfortable base for exploring the city, let me share my experience at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City. I spent a delightful few days here, discovering both its strengths and areas for improvement.
A Welcoming Arrival and a Suite with a View
Stepping into the hotel at 2pm, an hour before the standard check-in time, I was greeted with warmth and efficiency. The spacious, elegantly designed lobby offered comfortable seating options, perfect for settling in after a long journey. Check-in was a breeze, and the staff member promptly provided my key card and all the necessary information.
My home for the next few days was Room 1207, a suite on the 12th floor. The suite’s entrance opened to a small kitchenette, leading to a living room bathed in natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of iconic landmarks: the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The living room was comfortably furnished with two sofas, a coffee table, a television, London-inspired artwork, and a stunning chandelier.
The bedroom, adjacent to the living room, featured a large king-sized bed (2m x 2m) against a similar backdrop of stunning views. The room was well-equipped with two wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and numerous power outlets with USB charging ports – a thoughtful touch for the modern traveler.
Luxurious Amenities with a Touch of Personalized Charm
The suite was overflowing with amenities designed to cater to every need. A flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron, and ironing board were just a few of the comforts available. Complimentary toiletries, a choice of a bathtub or shower, a hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner added to the luxurious feel.
Other perks included a free newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee & tea maker, and a telephone. A handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat were a delightful surprise. This thoughtful gesture added a personal touch, making me feel truly welcome.
A Spacious Bathroom with a Touch of Wear and Tear
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, I noticed signs of wear and tear. 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 suite’s otherwise high standards.
A Breakfast Buffet with a Mixed Service Experience
Breakfast at Leo’s, the hotel’s restaurant, was an expansive affair. The buffet offered a diverse selection to suit every taste, from traditional English breakfast items to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and an assortment of bread. However, my first experience at breakfast was slightly marred by a staff member who seemed disengaged. This was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues, showcasing a slight inconsistency in staff engagement.
Attentive Service with Room for Improvement
For the most part, the staff was attentive and helpful. However, there were instances where the level of engagement could have been more consistent, particularly in the lobby area. This discrepancy highlighted the difference between the service expected in a 5-star establishment like the Shangri-La and a 4-star hotel like Leonardo Royal. It speaks volumes if the staff is more engaged in talking to each other while ignoring the guests greeting them.
A Memorable Dinner at Leo’s
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight. Kostas, the amiable staff member, not only found me a great table but also engaged in lively conversations, switching between English and German. The fish and chips I ordered were exceptional, as was the service. Kostas deserves a special mention for making the evening memorable.
A Heartwarming Farewell Gift
On the day of my checkout, I received a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Though I couldn’t indulge in it due to my travel constraints, this gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay. It left a lasting positive impression, overshadowing some of the minor issues I encountered.
Overall Impression: A Positive Experience with Room for Growth
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 😉
Remember, this is just my experience. Everyone’s travel preferences are different. Hopefully, my review gives you a helpful glimpse into the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City. Would you consider staying here? Let me know in the comments!
