Some of the reviews horrified us, especially as we needed to stay in the area for two consecutive weekends, but for the cost involved we thought that it was worth a try.
We parked in the last available space in the front car park, between 3 foreign coaches and some white vans, which was perhaps not a good sign, especially as there is a minicab company in the hotel basement. We were greeted at check in by a charming man who was at pains to tell us that we could park round the back of the hotel in a secure car park - breathed sigh of relief!
What other reviewers have said about "the labyrinth" is indeed true, but there is no smell and the rooms are well signposted. I really could not understand the room numbering system, and thought that a room number beginning with 8 was going to be on the 8th floor. We went up and down several staircases on the way to our room, but the view from the window suggested that we were at first floor level. The building went up in 1854, and that is presumably how they did things then!
The room was small and clean with a very effective radiator, but unfortunately the bathroom was very cold as it had no heating at all, which is not good when it is -5 outside.
In general, the building is suffering from a lack of basic maintenance, and a bit more carpet vacuuming would not be out of place.
Breakfast (included) is provided in one of the many function rooms in the basement and consists of juice, cornflakes, preserves and freshly made toast (not do it yourself) and a choice of hot drinks. It may not be full English, but it starts the day.
On leaving, we were really pleased with how difficult it was to remove our car - thieves would have no chance.
For £37 per room per night including breakfast and secure parking it's a bit of a no-brainer - we will be back next weekend!
- Queens Hotel London
