Gem Langham Court

Getting around was easy from this spot, and everything was a short walk away. The room, though, wasn’t great. Our window looked straight at a huge brick wall about a metre away, and the toilet was fitted sideways so it was hard to sit on properly. The seat seemed broken and stuck at an angle, perhaps because previous guests had the same problem. The staff were fine, but the food was bland and only warm. Breakfast was uninspiring, so I wouldn’t pay for it if I stayed again. The location was what made the stay worthwhile.

The hotel’s only real advantage is its location, near good restaurants and a short walk from the tube. The price felt excessive, perhaps because of December surge pricing. The room was extremely hot, and the mattress was so hard that we had one of the worst nights’ sleep I can remember. We couldn’t adjust the temperature and had to open a window, which let in more street noise. The lift was out of order. We managed the stairs to the third floor, but that won’t work well for every guest. Breakfast was included, with fruit and cheese as well as a cooked buffet that looked very unappealing. I wouldn’t return or recommend it.

The bathroom seemed recently updated, which was good, and the breakfast we were given as an apology was excellent. But at £25 per person, I’d consider it far too expensive if I were paying. The hotel isn’t worth the price, and I wouldn’t recommend it. We arrived to find an untidy, uninspiring reception, with things piled on the shelving behind the desk. Our first room was number 5 in the lower basement. It was tiny and dark, with old brown furniture, no suitcase rack, no fridge, and a view of a brick wall and the back of the dining room and kitchen. The only bit of sky was visible if you looked up. I’d booked twin beds but was given a double, and the window wouldn’t open. The aircon controls were taped around the edges and didn’t work. A staff member eventually opened the window and explained that the system was under maintenance. Reception later said a fan was in the cupboard. There was no bottled water, and the kettle was fixed inside a small wall cupboard with instant coffee sachets. For a four star hotel, I’d expect a coffee machine. I complained about the room and compared it unfavorably to a Travelodge. We were moved to a room on the third floor, but it was still small and had the same dated furniture. The complimentary breakfast was offered as an apology. The poor first room spoiled our arrival day.

The room was clean and lovely, with a modern bathroom, a comfortable bed, and tea and coffee facilities. Great location and friendly staff. Really spot on, and I’d stay again.