Hotel feature of the week
TravelMole managing director Graham McKenzie checked into the Doubletree by Hilton in London's Southampton Row and reports on his findings.
We recently ran a story that highlighted standards within the domestic hospitality industry, which was entitled ‘UK customer service lacking as 2012 approaches’. I am sure you will all agree that even the finest hotel in the world can be spoilt by poor, slow and at its worst surly service. Something none of us in the industry would consider distinctly unusual, often depressing and not restricted to the United Kingdom. It is therefore such a pleasure to find an oasis of supreme client care in the heart of our capital city. The Doubletree by Hilton in Southampton Row is such a place. From the moment you walk in and are greeted with a smile, recognition and, as in the case in all Doubletree hotels, a warm chocolate cookie.
The Doubletree by Hilton London – West End, some of you may be more familiar with its former name the Bonnington, has recently been refurbished and quite frankly it shows. The reception area, dining room, bar area and rooms all smack of a tasteful modern theme with the emphasis on relaxation. The hotel itself is ideally placed for leisure and business tourism. A short hop skip and a jump to the city. A mere stroll to the British Museum and all that the West End has to offer.
I was lucky enough to have an Executive room that comes with its own breakfast room and dedicated lift but quite frankly I am not sure it matters that much. I have stayed before and based upon the two rooms I have stayed in both offer all that you would expect by way of flat screen television, access to wireless internet, clean and roomy bath facilities plus large comfortable beds.
The extensive meeting and event facilities, which from personal experience at the TravelMole Web Awards I can vouch for, are second to none in a hotel of this size and once again are all new and sparkly. A varying size of room can be hired and they all come with modern connectivity built in.
The catering is also adequate. It’s not Michelin star but equally it’s not a greasy spoon. For my requirements and taste in a city centre hotel it’s ideal with food being chosen from an extensive menu that is served quickly with a smile and a conversation.
If its service that you’re looking for look no further than the Doubletree by Hilton in Southampton Row.
From left, Amrita and Lourdes of the Doubletree
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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