Novotel London Excel

The hotel stands out for its prime location adjacent to the Excel exhibition center and its exceptional connectivity to London's public transport network, making it an ideal choice for business travelers attending events and sightseers exploring the city. Its modern design and inviting atmosphere are frequently highlighted, alongside the consistently praised friendly staff and spacious rooms. The hotel is also well-suited for families, with amenities like complimentary breakfast for children, and offers a comfortable base for couples seeking a quiet retreat with good access to attractions. To enhance your stay, guests recommend confirming the functionality of the in-room air conditioning upon arrival and being aware of the limited and often problematic parking situation, especially during events.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a well-regarded gym for those looking to stay active and maintain their fitness routines while traveling. The bar and lounge areas are frequently mentioned as pleasant, inviting spaces for relaxation and socializing, offering a comfortable ambiance for guests. Many enjoy the terrace which provides scenic waterfront views, perfect for enjoying drinks or a meal outdoors. While Wi-Fi is generally available and reliable, a few guests experienced temporary outages. The elevator system, which requires a two-stage process to reach residential floors, can be a minor inconvenience, particularly for guests with significant luggage or young children. The availability of a digital key is a modern convenience that streamlines access and check-in.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be spacious and generally clean, though some have noted inconsistencies, including stained carpets or issues with initial room cleanliness. The comfort of the beds receives mixed feedback; while many find them comfortable, some describe them as too firm, and sofa beds are frequently reported as uncomfortable and lacking sufficient padding. A recurring concern is the air conditioning, which many guests found to be ineffective, leading to hot rooms and disturbed sleep. The design of the bathroom also draws comment, particularly the separate toilet without a sink, which many find inconvenient and unhygienic. Some rooms feature a translucent glass wall between the bathroom and bedroom, which can compromise privacy and allow light to disturb sleep. Issues with shower drainage and mouldy shower heads have also been reported.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives high praise for its quality and variety, with many guests highlighting that kids eat free, making it a great value for families. While the breakfast buffet is generally well-regarded, some guests noted that hot items could be cold or that options were occasionally limited, particularly for specific dietary needs. The restaurant is commended for its good food and often features a fantastic view, enhancing the dining experience. The bar is described as a pleasant spot for drinks and light meals, with guests enjoying the fresh offerings like burgers and late-night pizza. However, some guests found the overall dining options to be somewhat limited, and room service was noted to have a restricted menu.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, especially for those attending events at the Excel exhibition center, which is just a short walk away. Its proximity to the Custom House Elizabeth Line and DLR stations provides seamless and rapid access to central London, Heathrow Airport, and other key areas, including the O2 Arena via the nearby cable car. The surrounding area is described as quiet and pleasant, offering opportunities for waterfront walks. However, parking is a significant point of contention; spaces are limited, often full, and the system can be frustrating, sometimes requiring a fee even when no space is available. Despite being outside the congestion zone, the cost of parking is frequently mentioned as high.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, consistently described as friendly, helpful, and attentive. Guests appreciate the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, including complimentary room upgrades. Many specific interactions highlight the staff's dedication to providing excellent service. However, there are some instances of mixed feedback regarding the reception staff, with a few guests finding them uninviting or less accommodating. Similarly, while many praise the bar staff, some reviews mention instances of unhelpful or rude service. Housekeeping consistency is also a point of concern, with some guests reporting rooms not being cleaned or, in rare cases, doors being left ajar.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their furry companions, which is a significant advantage for many travelers seeking accommodation with their pets. Guests should be aware that certain basic amenities, such as complimentary bottled water, dental kits, robes, and slippers, are not routinely provided in rooms and must be requested from the front desk, which some found inconvenient. The hotel also has a policy against consuming outside food within its premises, a point of contention for some guests. For those needing to extend their stay, late checkout options are generally available, often with an additional charge, providing flexibility for travel plans. The hotel's modern aesthetic and pleasant scent upon entry contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.