Travelodge London City

The staff were extraordinary, and the morning food service was excellent. That’s why I gave it three stars. I stayed for a while in April with friends, and the rooms we shared were good, with a decent amount of storage for their smaller size. The bathroom was clean, but the shower was awkward and a little grimy even on the first night. It sat high up, making it hard to get in and out, and water soaked the long curtains and floor each time. Towels got drenched trying to deal with it, so I ended up holding the curtain in place to keep water from spilling out. Maybe it was just the room we had, but it was frustrating to manage over time. I wouldn’t recommend staying unless it’s just overnight.

The room was comfortable once I finally got in, though it was missing a floor mat. It was the hottest day in May and the air-conditioning did nothing. I raised it with staff twice, but nothing changed. The room was like a furnace and I couldn’t sleep. The hallway was much cooler, so my kids sat out there now and then to keep cool. I ended up buying a fan the next day. I’d paid for early check-in for convenience, but when I arrived at 4pm the room still wasn’t ready. The woman at the desk went into the back rooms after I explained, and the manager later said the room wasn’t available. I repeated that I’d booked and paid for early check-in, but no one offered a refund or any other concession. I won’t be staying at another Travelodge any time soon.

For a few days’ holiday, this is a budget-friendly option near the Tower Bridge area, with a tube station within walking distance. Breakfast was okay. But the air-conditioning didn’t work and the windows barely opened. Internet was awful: the free access only lasts 30 minutes, while even the paid connection kept dropping. The bathtub is so high it could be a safety issue for many people. There’s no room service unless you stay more than six days. It is close to the business district.

The room was quiet at night and the bed was firm without being uncomfortable. It’s a clean, efficient hotel, handy for both Aldgate and Aldgate East metro stations, and you can start a city walk from here. I’d stay again.