The Grosvenor London: A charming 4-star hotel in the heart of London, the Grosvenor offers a convenient base for exploring the city. I landed here for a short, last-minute trip, seeking a comfortable haven with easy access to transportation. The hotel’s location next to Victoria Station perfectly fit the bill, offering seamless connections to Gatwick Airport via the Gatwick Express and National Rail services. With the London Underground’s Victoria, District, and Circle lines also at your fingertips, getting around London is a breeze. And if you prefer to walk, iconic London landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are within a 20-minute stroll.
A Welcoming Entrance and Grand Interior
The Grosvenor boasts a captivating presence, its 19th-century architecture exuding a timeless elegance. The main entrance hall is a breathtaking sight, adorned with a majestic chandelier that instantly captures your attention. This grandeur extends throughout the building, featuring soaring ceilings, ornate pillars, exquisite carvings, stained glass windows, and wide staircases. It’s a visual feast, perfect for those seeking Instagram-worthy interiors.
A Comfortable Room with a View
My single room, situated on a higher floor, offered a unique perspective overlooking the bustling Victoria bus station. The view was truly captivating, and I spent a good portion of my time simply gazing out the window. The room itself was functional and comfortable, equipped with a desk, a wardrobe with a safe, a kettle and cups, and a cozy Hypnos bed. I slept soundly throughout the night. While the bathroom fixtures showed their age, they were fully functional. The only minor drawback was the TV’s poor reception, which made watching programs a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, free Wi-Fi was readily available, and the hotel’s thoughtful touch of providing complimentary still and sparkling water bottles was much appreciated.
Afternoon Tea Delights
The Grosvenor’s afternoon tea, served in the ground floor lounge, was a delightful experience. My table by the window offered a panoramic view of this elegant space, which mirrored the main entrance hall with its high ceiling, pillars, and chandeliers. It was a truly charming setting to enjoy a selection of scones and cakes. The price of afternoon tea at the Grosvenor is surprisingly reasonable, especially considering the quality and ambiance. While the tea itself is served in teabags rather than loose-leaf, it’s still flavorful and enjoyable. The menu features a tempting array of savory and sweet treats, with my personal favorites being the pistachio meringue and the coronation chicken cone. The savory scone with tomato and horseradish chutney was a delightful surprise, and the cherry jam served with the sweet scones was undeniably delicious. However, I learned a valuable lesson: don’t attempt to devour everything. I overindulged, leaving me feeling uncomfortably full for the rest of the day. A doggy bag would have been a much better option.
Friendly Service and a Memorable Stay
From the moment I arrived at the hotel to my departure, the staff consistently demonstrated exceptional friendliness and helpfulness. One particular interaction left a lasting impression. I witnessed a receptionist not only explaining directions to an elderly couple but also going the extra mile to carry one of their suitcases and personally escort them to the right location. Such dedication to service is truly commendable.
Overall, my stay at the Grosvenor London was delightful. The hotel’s combination of charm, convenience, and excellent service ensured a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a comfortable and well-located base for exploring London, the Grosvenor is definitely worth considering.
