If you’ve read my previous posts, you know that I am rather partial to a single hotel in London. I stayed at the Radisson Blu Portman Hotel because I was attending a conference held at the hotel. I’ve stayed at Radisson Blus before (in fact, I stayed at this Radisson Blu before, many years ago), some in London and some outside of London.
The trick with multiple chain hotels in a single city is for each to maintain its own individuality and charm, without compromising the brand. The Radisson Blu Portman, specifically caters to business travelers. However, in doing so, it misses some opportunities that its more leisure-oriented sister hotels in the city excel at providing.
As many other high end hotels, some services that you would expect to be included are fee-based, as the hotel expects guests are expensing it. Wi-Fi is free, and there is a business center. The interior of the hotel is plush and luxurious, Although a little outdated, the interior of the hotel is plush and luxurious. Read on to find out why this is a recommended hotel for business travelers.
Great location: easily accessible in the heart of Mayfair
The best part of the Radisson Blu Portman Hotel is its location. Situated in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel is walking distance from Hyde Park, Marble Arch, and Bond Street. The best of London is easily accessible by metro, cab, and Uber.
If you are looking to sightsee, run, or shop in your spare time, the Radisson Blu Portman Hotel is an ideal base. King’s Cross is also easily accessible if you have meetings outside of London and need to take day trips within the UK.
Furthermore, there are excellent cafes, bars, and restaurants in close walking distance (including some of my favorites: Mr Foggs Tavern, Nobu, Sexy Fish, Burger Lobster, amongst many others). You will eat and drink well staying at this hotel.
Standard rooms or business class rooms?
As I mentioned, I have stayed in this hotel before this visit and as such, I have stayed in both the east and west side. On this particular occasion, I also had to move rooms. If you’re staying here alone, even as a solo traveler, ensure you put 2 adults in a room or you will likely end up in a single bed. A double bed beats a single bed on any day. Period.
The rooms on the west side are pretty standard and more modern. The rooms look as though they have been refurbished, but they are no-frills. Standard, and clean.
The rooms on the east side look more traditional, but feel more luxurious. The beds are plush and cushy. These are the business class rooms and they do cost a bit more.
Facilities and amenities at Radisson Blu Portman Hotel
If you are on the east side, in the business class rooms, the bathroom floors are heated. This may be one of the best things about the rooms. You may never want to leave the heated bathroom floor on a cold February morning. The showers are acceptable, plenty of hot water, decent water pressure. Breakfast is included in some room rates and served in the lobby dining room. Breakfast is quite good, with a wide selection. If you do not opt for a room with included breakfast, there is coffee and tea in your room and there are plenty of coffee shops nearby.
The concierges are particularly helpful, friendly and nice. The front desk staff is attentive and welcoming and do their best to make your visit pleasant. Overall, this hotel is best for people who have meetings in the nearby area, are willing to pay for the business class room and do not plan on spending a significant amount of time in the hotel.
Your trip purpose matters
Ultimately, I would encourage you to think about why your are visiting a given location before deciding on staying in a particular hotel. The Radisson Blu Portman Hotel, London, has a number of good attributes, but a number of things to improve on for both business travelers and leisure travelers alike.
If you are looking for a mid-range business hotel, this will suit your needs and put you in an excellent position to explore the city in your off time.
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