citizenM London Bankside

Breakfast was good, with everything I needed, and I liked being able to order unlimited coffee. The location is handy, opposite an M&S Food, and the busy street outside didn’t make the hotel noisy. It feels overpriced for the service, which doesn’t meet a 4-star standard. Check-in is fully automated, and the courtyard-facing rooms look straight into other rooms’ windows. There’s only one lift for five floors, so it gets slow and crowded at busy times. The room is small, maybe manageable alone but uncomfortable for two. The bed is right against the window, leaving very little space to move. With three sides next to a wall or window, getting in and out is awkward, and the person on the window side has to climb over the other. The frosted glass toilet door offers little sound privacy. Most things are controlled by an iPad. There’s no kettle, coffee, bottled water or glasses, so you can’t have a drink unless you buy your own water and cup. That’s unacceptable at this price and category.

The lobby has a relaxed, sociable feel, more like a cool living room, and the staff seem happy to be there. The room was small but cleverly set up, with a seriously comfortable bed and lights I could control without getting up. The location is spot on, near the river and Tate Modern, with easy transport in every direction. Having an M&S right outside the front door was an unexpected bonus for late night snacks and emergency meals. Stylish and practical, just right for a London stay.

Citizen M is my usual choice for business trips. Their rooms are compact, quiet and efficiently arranged, the beds are comfortable, and the service is reliably first-rate. It’s a good chain when you want somewhere peaceful to sleep and a comfortable place to work or relax. Shauni was amazing and always such fun to chat with.

Borough market nearby was a big plus, and the downstairs work and dining areas were nicely decorated and organized. I was impressed by the breakfast range and food quality. The room was small, and Bonvoy eligible customers don’t have an upgrade option. Still, the bed was very big and comfortable. My only inconvenience was the tiny washbasin. A good choice for business trips.