Get ready to discover a London hotel with mesmerizing vistas and a touch of warmth! From December 19th to 22nd, I had the pleasure of staying at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, an experience that was both enjoyable and insightful. As a traveler who appreciates excellent hospitality, I was excited to see what this renowned hotel had to offer.
A Welcoming Lobby and a Suite With a View
Upon arriving an hour before the standard check-in time (thanks to my early check-in and late check-out booking), I was greeted with a friendly smile at the reception. The lobby’s spacious and stylish design, featuring comfortable seating areas, immediately caught my eye. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff member efficiently provided me with all the necessary information and my key card.
Room 1207, a suite on the 12th floor, became my temporary home. As I stepped into the suite, I was greeted by a compact but functional kitchenette, which led to a living room boasting floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The living room was comfortably furnished with two sofas, a coffee table, a TV, London-inspired artwork, and a beautiful chandelier.
Next to the living room was the bedroom, featuring a grand king-sized bed (2m x 2m) set against the backdrop of those stunning views. The room was well-equipped with two wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and plenty of power outlets with USB charging ports – a thoughtful touch for the modern traveler.
Luxury Amenities and Thoughtful Touches
The suite was brimming with amenities designed to cater to every need: a flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron, ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice between a bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner. Additional perks included a free newspaper, unlimited Wi-Fi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee & tea maker, and a telephone.
A delightful surprise awaited me: a handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat. This thoughtful gesture added a personal touch to my stay. How did they know I absolutely adore cake?
A Touch of Refinement With Room for Improvement
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, the 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 suite’s otherwise high standards.
A Breakfast Buffet and Staff Encounters
Breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, was an expansive affair featuring a buffet that catered to diverse tastes. From traditional English breakfast items to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and a variety of bread, the selection was impressive. However, my first breakfast experience was slightly marred by a staff member who seemed disinterested. Thankfully, this was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues.
The staff, for the most part, 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 in attentiveness highlighted the difference between the service expected in a 5-star establishment and a 4-star hotel. It speaks volumes when staff members are more engaged in conversations with each other while ignoring guests greeting them.
An Evening to Remember at Leo’s
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight. Kostas, the friendly 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 special recognition for making the evening memorable.
A Heartwarming Farewell and Lasting Impressions
On my checkout day, I received a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Although I couldn’t enjoy it due to my travel arrangements, this gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues encountered.
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 have the biggest 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 they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo 😉
