Leonardo Royal Hotel London City – The Review

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From December 19th to the 22nd, I had the pleasure of staying at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City*, a stay that was both delightful and revealing in various aspects. As a traveler who appreciates the finer details of hospitality, I was eager to experience what this renowned Hotel had to offer,

Arrival and First Impressions

Upon my arrival at 2 pm, an hour before the standard check-in time (I booked the early check-in and late check-out option), I was greeted warmly at the reception. The lobby’s spacious and elegantly designed area, replete with comfortable seating options, immediately caught my attention. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff member efficiently provided me with all the necessary information along with my key card.

The Suite: A Room with a View

Room 1207, a suite located on the 12th floor, was my home for these days. The suite’s entrance opened to a small yet functional kitchenette, leading to a living room adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view 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 an impressive chandelier. 

Adjacent to the living room was the bedroom, featuring a large king-sized bed (2m x 2m) placed against a backdrop of similar stunning views. The room was well-equipped with two wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and numerous power outlets with USB charging ports – a thoughtful touch for the modern traveler.

Suite Amenities

The suite was replete with amenities that catered to every need: a flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron, and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice of a bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner. Additional perks included a free newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee & tea maker, and a telephone.

A delightful surprise was the handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat. This thoughtful gesture added a personal touch to my stay. How did the Hotel know I looooved cake? 

The Bathroom: Elegance Meets Wear

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 evident. 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 otherwise high standards of the suite.

Breakfast

Breakfast at the Hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, was an expansive affair with a buffet that catered to a variety of tastes. From the traditional English breakfast items to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and an assortment of bread, the selection was impressive. However, my first experience at breakfast was slightly marred by a staff member who seemed disengaged, though this was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues.

Staff Interaction: A Mixed Bag

The staff, for the most part, were 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 like the Shangri-La and a 4-star hotel like Leonardo Royal. It speaks volumes if the staff is more engaged in talking to each other while ignoring the guests greeting them. 

Dining at Leo’s: An Evening to Remember

My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight. Kostas, the amiable 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 a special mention for making the evening memorable.

Departure: A Thoughtful Farewell

On the day of my checkout, I received a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Although I couldn’t indulge in it due to my travel constraints, this gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues encountered.

Conclusion

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 leave the most significant 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 that they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo 😉

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Experience Elegance and History at Leonardo Royal Hotel London City – Your Gateway to London's Icons!

Nestled in the heart of Tower Hamlets, Leonardo Royal Hotel London City on Cooper's Row is more than just a stay; it's an experience steeped in elegance and history. Overlooking iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, the hotel offers luxurious suites and rooms with great views. Indulge in an extensive breakfast buffet, enjoy impeccable service at Leo's, and unwind in the chic, marble-tiled bathrooms and spa. With modern amenities, personal touches, and a location that puts London at your doorstep, Leonardo Royal Hotel London City is the perfect choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in a historic setting.

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