THE HOTEL
In the heart of East London and a five-minute walk from both Shadwell DLR and Whitechapel underground station, London’s financial districts can be reached within 10 minutes using the Hammersmith and City or DLR. London City Airport is just 15 mins by DLR from Shadwell. The hotel is well-served by public transport but as a lone, female traveller it was not the most pleasant walk to and from either local station, so taxis are advised for late night arrivals or departures.
THE CHECK-IN
I was warmly welcomed and quickly whizzed through check-in with facilities highlighted and breakfast timings and location pointed out. I was handed two room keys, which I needed to swipe to activate the lifts or access the stairs, adding a nice level of security for a single traveller.
THE ROOM
My standard twin room (105) was located close to the lifts and was spacious at 15 square metres. The room was well-designed with floor to ceiling windows for great light, good hanging space, two 39’’ wide beds, desk, plenty of plug points, a large LG flat screen TV and complimentary tea and coffee. The bathroom featured a large rainforest style shower, high-quality products in pump dispensers, which felt more sustainable than plastic miniatures.
THE FACILITIES
The hotel has 24-hour check-in, a restaurant with an all-day menu, a well-stocked bar in a lounge area, plus a fitness centre and meetings facilities. Full English Breakfast Buffet was included with the room rate (it’s £15.95 otherwise) and there were also some nice Vegan and Vegetarian specials, which can be cooked to order.
FOR BUSINESS
A newly-refurbished co-working space had the latest technology available, lots of natural light and the flexibility to be made into smaller spaces or larger spaces (maximum 60 for theatre style). While the immediate area lacked choice for dining out in the evening, the lively St Katherine’s Dock was a short cab ride away with plenty of taxis passing by the hotel.
THE VERDICT
A super-friendly service throughout this Holiday Inn, the staff could not have done more to make me feel special and welcome. It’s a good choice for businesses in the area looking for some off-site co-working and meetings spaces and good quality accommodation for their employees.
THE DETAILS
Standard twins start at £135. ihg.com/holidayinn
