As part of a relaxing weekend in the English capital, I stayed at the Marriott London Marble Arch. The equation was pretty simple: with a late booking, all of the Starwood hotels in central London were already at a premium rate, so I decided to take advantage of the recent announcement that Marriott Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest would be integrated on August 1, and thus the number of nights would be merged for the 2018 qualification, to stay at a Marriott brand.
Booking
I made the reservation through the Marriott app, which makes it easy to search for hotels around a geographic location. This Marriott, located near Marble Arch, came out with a rock-bottom rate of £120 a night, unbeatable even on weekends for a property in this category.
Shortly before my arrival, I do a Mobile check-in, a feature offered by the Marriott app in two clicks.
Arrival
I arrive at the hotel from London Heathrow airport by tube. Long but cheap and we are rather well installed. The property is located 500m from the station. And it only takes me a few minutes to reach the hotel, which is easy to spot because of its height.
The view is likely to deteriorate in the coming years, as a building is under construction right in front of the hotel.
I was taken care of immediately by a receptionist who confirmed the information provided in the mobile check-in, as well as an upgrade to a superior Executive room, with lounge area.
It also indicates me the possibility of taking advantage of the Club Lounge located on the 12th floor of the hotel.
Room
My room was located on the 11th floor of the hotel, with a beautiful, unobstructed view of the city of London, including nearby Hyde Park. It is quite typical of an American Marriott room: the entrance leads immediately to the bathroom which is quite small and equipped with a bathtub (which I do not particularly appreciate) but with quality products and a beautiful orchid.
Back in the room with a well-made bed (but poorly tucked in), a large television, a comfortable and tasteful lounge area and a very large desk with all the necessary connections.
The view is magnificent as I said, but the fact of being able to only half-open the window is rather embarrassing and causes significant condensation.
To finish, a short video visit:
Restaurants
I did not try the hotel’s restaurant or its bar, although they were heavily promoted in the rooms and in the common areas.
On the other hand, I did spend some time in the Club Lounge, both for breakfast service and during the evening drink service.
As for breakfast, the offer is basic but good, with a hot buffet and an elaborate coffee machine that does the job.
As for the drink service in the evening, the staff is very attentive but no cocktails or “hard” drinks, only wine or beer. But of good quality. And the kindness of the staff makes up for it all. Too bad there are no snacks to accompany the Happy Hour.
Hotel facilities
The hotel has a fitness room in the basement of the property, which I would describe as undersized for the size of the hotel although the equipment is of good quality.
On the other hand, the fact that an indoor pool is available is really a positive point, especially since it is perfectly heated, and a Jacuzzi and a sauna are also available. Very good point even if it isn’t in the usual luxury of the middle-eastern or asian spas!
Departure
The departure formalities were simple since I used the mobile check-out and left directly, leaving the key in my room. I received the final bill only 15 minutes after my departure from the hotel by e-mail.
Bottom line
Even if the hotel is not luxurious, it is an excellent value for money: to have a full service hotel in the heart of London for £120 a night, even on weekends, is a rare thing. So go for it!
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