THE PROPERTY: This aparthotel is one half of a dual development from Cycas Hospitality which sees it reside alongside a fellow IHG brand, a Holiday Inn, at Westfield Stratford City. The Staybridge aparthotel has 162 studio and one-bedroom suites.
THE CHECK-IN: The aparthotel was reasonably well signposted as I made my way through the crowds of shoppers to the elevators that whisk guests up to the reception floor. I was checked in by a friendly member of staff – there’s an almost informal atmosphere about this aparthotel – after a short wait behind a couple of overseas visitors.
THE SUITE: A kitchenette and small lounge area (with sofa, desk and TV) gave way to the bedroom and bathroom – all tastefully decorated and enhanced with mirrors, lamps and photographs of London. The kitchenette was cleverly laid out and contained a fridge, hob, oven, dishwasher, coffee machine, plenty of crockery and utensils, and a couple of recipe cards.
THE FACILITIES: All guests can take advantage of the complimentary hot and cold breakfast buffet, while evening social receptions for guests to meet and mingle and enjoy complimentary drinks and nibbles are held three times a week. There’s also a fitness room, laundry facilities, 24-hour reception and a Pantry, Lounge, Den and roof terrace – with fine city views – which all appeared well used by guests as social and relaxation spaces. Guests can also make use of the neighbouring Holiday Inn’s restaurant, bar and meeting room facilities, and can also order room service from the sister property. Wifi access if free.
THE VERDICT: Its location within Westfield Stratford City means it welcomes plenty of shoppers, but its strategic position between Stratford and Stratford International stations and proximity to Canary Wharf and London City Airport appears to ensure there’s a steady stream of business guests too. The suites are perfectly equipped for longer stays, with the compact kitchens containing all that a self-caterer needs, while there’s a good range of facilities here too.
THE DETAILS: 10b Chestnut Plaza, Westfield Stratford City, Montfichet Road, London, E20 1GL. Rooms start from £95 per night (plus VAT). Nightly rates drop for stays of seven nights or more. See: staybridgesuites.com.
Reviewed by Andy Hoskins (2019)
