The Arc by Bridgestreet

The location worked really well for my stay, but the service and comfort didn't match the price. My bathroom linen wasn't clean enough, and the room hadn't been topped up as I'd requested. There also wasn't a small bar fridge, which I'd expect at this price. I arrived ten minutes before the official 3:00pm check-in. I understand the policy, but the front desk was inflexible and didn't explain things in a welcoming or helpful way. Then, exactly at 3:00pm, assistance was suddenly available, which made the earlier refusal seem arbitrary. At checkout, nobody greeted me; a seated staff member just told me to leave my key on the counter. The hotel needs more consistent service and better basic room standards.

The room was new and clean, and the train noise was minimal even though I was on level 2 facing the railway. The shower wasn't great, and WiFi costs extra, though my mobile signal worked fine. For a business trip it was perfectly adequate and good value, cheaper than the premier inn. It's about a ten-minute walk from the south side of Tower Bridge and the train station.

I wouldn't recommend staying here. The trains are audible day and night, and the poor soundproofing means you hear doors opening and closing all over the hotel, so relaxing in the room is difficult. WiFi is free for just 30 minutes, then you have to pay. Charging for basic internet access feels ridiculous these days. Between the constant railway noise, the thin insulation, and paid WiFi, it wasn't a comfortable stay. My company booked it for me.

The area right outside is basically an uninteresting back street, though there are nice places to eat nearby. The hotel itself is central, right beside London Bridge station, and surprisingly quiet despite the railway lines. Rooms were clean, the staff friendly, the beds really comfy, and there were extra pillows. It was also a good price. I'd stay again.