When thinking of Holiday Inns’, it tends to evoke images of the simplistic and functional ranging from the decor to the services offered, a venue for the overnight stay or business trip. Certainly, the Holiday Inn Regents Park seems to support this from the outside with a standard example of 60’s concrete architecture nestled near Regents Park itself.
The location of this Holiday Inn is stellar with accessible transport links nearby in abundance yet still situated on a quiet street and a short walk to London’s bustling West End with all the shops, theatres, bars, and restaurants you could ask for. Upon entering the smartly refurbished open lobby I was greeted courteously and efficiently by the smiling receptionist, Theodora, who checked me in and made me feel both welcomed and well looked after.
The room provided was clean, tastefully decorated in a pleasant style which benefitted from a recent refurbishment to a good standard. Power points were plentiful, the bed was comfortable, and the bathroom was well appointed with a walk-in shower, complimentary basic toiletries, and towels. If you are expecting a vanity pack this room will not come with one. However, there is a Sainsbury’s a stone’s throw away. Tea and coffee making facilities were also provided, as were an iron and ironing board, hair dryer and WIFI.
The hotel’s restaurant presented a comprehensive menu covering both a classic and more adventurous option. The maître d’hôtel, Alexandru, was charming and offered sagely advice as to the food and wine choices, which were plentiful. The food was swiftly delivered and to a good standard from spicy prawns, fresh salads, perfectly cooked steak, and delicate lemon chicken.
Starbucks provides the coffee for this Holiday Inn and so the post meal coffee was rich and flavoursome, as was the honeycomb cheesecake ordered…a new favourite!
Having enjoyed the local nightlife, the return to the hotel was very quick. The sleep was relaxing in the spacious bed, rising the next day for breakfast which was available from early until 11am. Extensive options abounded from continental style fruit, cold cuts, and breads to cooked breakfasts that were all well presented for guests.
Checkout was as simple as handing in the keys to the smiling receptionist before heading to one of the local tube stations and home.
To summarise, the stay at the Holiday Inn was a very pleasant one, the facilities were all recently refurbished and up to date, the staff were courteous and helpful throughout the stay and the food and drink were top notch. As a counter to its exterior the hotel was tastefully decorated in an uncluttered and modern style. If you are considering a stay in central London, this smart, efficient, and friendly hotel is perfectly situated to London’s heart and should be near the top of your list.