Novotel London Stansted Airport

The rooms were clean and, best of all, quiet, which is unusual for an airport hotel. Parking and check-in were easy, and there was a good range of things at the bar. The shuttle costs £4 each way, though after midnight it stops at other hotels too, adding quite a bit of time to the trip back when it's already inconvenient. The gym was the big letdown: old equipment that didn't seem serviced, wires lying around, and a cramped, badly arranged room. It was busy during my stay, so expanding and updating it could make it a great facility.

We left our car at the hotel for our holiday and used the shuttle service, which was great. Reception gave us a warm welcome. The room was clean, with tea and coffee making facilities, and the bathroom was clean too. The bed felt a little too hard to me, though my husband slept well. The pillows were very flat.

We arrived worn out after a difficult trip, and the staff made us feel welcome and helped us out. The room was a good size and very clean. I often find hotel rooms too hot and dry, but this one was at a good temperature. The beds were comfortable, and the pillows felt just right, without being hard or lumpy. We'd happily stay again.

The professional, efficient staff and convenient location for my business travel were the only positives. The hotel itself feels old and badly needs renovation. Furniture in the rooms, lobby, bar and restaurant was worn, and the interior didn't seem well maintained. A key light switch was coming off the wall and had to be jiggled to work; most of the bathroom fixtures showed clear rust, and the bed was rock hard. The online photos make it look much nicer than it is in person. I've had positive stays at other Novotel hotels around the world, so this one was a real disappointment. There are nicer options at Stansted Airport. I hope management looks at Hampton or Radison as examples and invests soon.