"Location and surroundings
The location is excellent: Waterloo station is easily reached on foot and in the immediate vicinity there is The Cut, a lively street full of restaurants of all kinds. The hotel is located along one of the main arteries of the area, almost orthogonal to the river, which makes getting around and orientation particularly simple.
A few steps away is also the Imperial War Museum park, a well-kept green area and ideal for a relaxing walk on nice days. The minimarket right next to the entrance is also very practical, where you can buy water and snacks: a convenience even more immediate than the classic Tesco Express.
Room and comfort
Solid property and excellent room for the price category. The bed, in particular, is definitely more comfortable than the standard for this range, and even better than that of more expensive hotels. The bathroom is also adequate and functional.
The property has numerous elevators, with generally minimal wait times, and the reception staff is very courteous and helpful.
The (small) aspects to consider
I am pointing out a few truly marginal details, just for the sake of completeness:
Hot water: one morning the shower was left without hot water, but it was an occasional service disruption.
Cleaning times: the housekeeping service hours are a bit unpredictable, ranging from the early afternoon until evening. It can happen that the staff knocks while you are still in the room. Practical tip: keep your pajamas handy, if you don't want to risk scaring the staff!
Nighttime noise: the hotel is located near St George's Circus (a small roundabout with an obelisk) and not far from major hospital facilities. At night, ambulances and police cars pass by with some frequency with sirens blaring. Light sleepers would do well to bring earplugs with them.
Blackout curtains: they do not guarantee total darkness, because they let light filter in at the sides. As an experienced traveler, I recommend bringing a couple of clothespins to keep them held together tightly.
Transportation and accessibility
Very convenient for taxi travel, both upon arrival and departure, especially if traveling with heavy luggage.
For those using buses, however, pay attention to the stops near the roundabout: there are several with the same name, distributed on different streets that form a sort of V and are distinguished only by different letters. It is better to check the letter of the stop carefully on the map or via Citymapper, to avoid waiting unnecessarily in the wrong place.
There are truly numerous buses to the city center, and the connection to London Liverpool Street station (from which the Stansted Express departs) is also very easy.
Value for money
The price is slightly above average, but the difference is amply justified by the location, the comfort, and the overall convenience of the stay. I did not use the dining services, so I cannot express an opinion on that.
Final verdict
I recommend the property without hesitation. The small "flaws" are completely manageable and do not affect an overall excellent experience.
Would I return? Absolutely yes, as early as next year."
