Norfolk Towers Paddington Hotel

Paddington Station is only five minutes away, connecting you to the subway and the rest of the city. There’s also a hop-on hop-off stop nearby. Given London hotel prices downtown, this felt like good value for the quality. We booked a twin room. It was fine, though two people didn’t have much space for clothes and luggage. Getting there meant going through a door, along a back alleyway, then into another part of the hotel. Odd, but not a deal breaker. Housekeeping did a good job changing towels and shampoo bottles daily, unless you asked them to skip. We arrived too early to check in, but they stored our bags so we could explore the area.

The room was small but comfortable, and breakfast was adequate. The mattresses were very uncomfortable, the bathroom felt too cramped, and cleanliness needs attention. We left a wrapped pastry on the desk and later found little ants all over it. Getting around is easy from here. Paddington Station is close, and bus 23 stops outside, going directly to Notting Hill and Piccadilly. There are also plenty of nearby cafés and restaurants for meals.

Hyde Park is a pleasant 10-minute walk away, St Mary's bus station is about a minute from the hotel, and Paddington Station, including the Heathrow Express, is around 10 minutes away. The room is basic and compact, but has thoughtful touches like a heated bathroom mirror, a decent shower, an EU outlet, and a TV. There’s a bar and restaurant, though it was already closed when we got back yesterday evening. Check the hours if you’re counting on it late at night. We heard everything through the thin walls, including neighbors slamming doors at what felt like 6am. The room is snug, the climate control only turns down rather than fully off, and the window doesn’t open, which felt claustrophobic if you like fresh air. We also had a false fire alarm just after going to bed, and had to evacuate for about 10 minutes before returning. The location makes it worth considering, as long as your expectations are realistic.

The room and bathroom, No 315, were spotless, and the towels and linen were good quality. Staff were polite, breakfast was good, and the place felt neat, tidy, and well looked after. I’ve stayed in many London hotels, and Norfolk Towers Hotel is one that stands out. I was pleasantly surprised and would definitely stay again.