Hilton HHonors - Hilton London Green Park hotel

Okay - just discovered this board and went a little crazy. Signed up for the promotion for 4 stays for 50000 points, made a reservation for a $19 room at Flamingo (I might not actually show up) for tonight, found a $430 rt fare tomorrow sfo-lhr so will go to London see a couple of plays - got rate of 59 pounds at Hilton Green Park, come back with 30-40k UA miles (due to all the bonuses - I am a 1K), 2 of my 4 Hilton stays, and thanks (I think) to all of you for alerting me to the Hilton gold upgrade, etc.
Has anyone gotten any Gold benefits (forgot to say I got lucky and got upgraded to gold when I called today) at this hotel?

[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 12-28-2000).]

I've stayed there twice, recently over Thanksgiving. Was only Silver then, and got upgraded room but nothing else. Extremely convenient location, staff very accomodating, but hotel is just ok. How in the world did you get a 59 GPB rate and for what days of the week?

Just checked the Hilton website -- now I understand -- a single is REALLY a SINGLE!!! I hope you are traveling alone. However, I have no idea what they will do re an upgrade and to what bed type/room. When I was there both times, I was with my spouse, and an upgrade as a silver was a courtesy, so I booked the least expensive room capable of truly supoorting 2 people -- a double. If you have a signifciant other with you, I would be very interested to know what they do. In any event, as I never stayed there as a Gold, I would be interested in knowing what type of room you get any how. Please file a Trip Report.



[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 03-11-2001).]

Its a special rate with all sorts of restrictions- something like one night stay - only certain nights, biggee 40 pound non refundable, but I just called Hilton and got it - they say it includes breakfast - for Dec 30. Surprise if I want to stay the next night it is a LOT more. The 59 pund rate includes a nonrefundable 40 pounds, so I originally booked a 73 pound rate until I was sure I could get the air then called back and changed to the lower rate.

Any Questions re the property that I have not discussed?

Any Questions re the property that I have not discussed?

BTW, you will pass a Starbucks on your way to the hotel from the Tube stop. Should make you feel at home!

[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 12-29-2000).]

Thanks DOc - are you in med school? See my trip report (per your request) it that section.

Dear Estnet,

I am so glad that you had a great time at the Green Park and that you saw Copenhagen. I saw it last year during the Milennium, when I first stayed at the Green Park.

Anyway I'm really glad that you had such a good time!

Happy New Year!

[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 03-11-2001).]

Thanks for the info - almost forgot about the ac (there was a big fan in the corner of the room I had so I did think about it while I was there)
Do know you are doc 2 be, but I have tendonitis so had shortened it. Anyway I went to med school in my mid 30's so can relate to your other comments!
The nice waiter I talked to mentioned his ?uncle was a concierge at the hotel - but didn't see him the next day before I left.

[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 01-01-2001).]

I stayed at the Green Park Hotel for just one night on 12-22-00.
I had the same 59 pounds rate. I showed my silver card at the front desk and I got an upgrade to a Spacious Room (I am not sure if it was Queen or King) with a separate seating area, Internet and e-mail access (keyboard, modem and the T.V.) and a bathtub that was also a whirpool. After a long flight, the whirpool is heaven. I checked in around 12:00, used the whirpool and took a nap. When I woke up it was dark, and I got ready to go out, when I heard a knock on the door. The door began to open and I asked- Who's there? The bus boy said- I'm sorry madame. I didn't mean to scare you but I'm bringing this courtesy of the manager (Mineral water, chocolates and a letter from the manager). Do they treat all the sivers like that? I'm supposed to be gold this year but I haven't received the card yet.
This rate included English breakfast. You are entitled to order some things from the menu besides the buffet.

Wow

I had no luck with ANY amenity as a gold! (except did get an upgraded room without seating area or internet acess)
Would have loved some chocolates - the manager must have really liked you.

Traveling to London for a post Valentine's holiday. Has anyone stayed at The Hilton London Green Park? My last visit to London I was able to stay at The Park Lane. Are the two comparable?

Do a search of Green Park on this thread and you will find out all you need to know. Extremely convenient to the Picadilly line.

I was there last week. A very nice place and the warmest room in London with two adjustable steam radiators in my sorta small room (420) but a huge bathroom with tub and shower. Very friendly staff, the place is newly decorated in a very nice British historical fashion, the restaurant is very good, the location excellent and I hopefully will return. No exec lounge though. The bar area and restaurant are VERY smoky at dinner. Thankfully not at breakfast though.

As for the snooty (snotty) "WE DO NOT UPGRADE HH DIAMONDS", London Hilton, I would not stay there again on a bet.......unless they change that policy. A world of difference between the two hotels especially in friendliness, price, etc. They are only 2 blocks apart in distance but a world of difference in attitude.

MisterNice

ps: I met with and strongly suggested our corporate travel agencies NOT to use the London Hilton for our company travel because of their pricing, obnoxious attitudes, upgrade policies etc. They concurred.

I checked into the Green Park today (Valentine's Day) with a colleague. Both of us are HHonors Gold. Neither of us were upgraded; the hotel is sold out for Valentine's Day. My colleague was not given the nonsmoking room he had requested when his reservation was made. He had his choice of a smoking room - which he says is very dilapidated - or a room with one single bed, which he says is little bigger than a broom closet.

We were told that the only Gold amenity is the 25% bonus we get on our points. They have no executive floor, so I asked about a comp breakfast. They said they had never heard of any UK Hilton giving such an amenity. I said it occurred just last night at the Heathrow Hilton; they said it was because that hotel has an executive floor.

My colleague has stayed at the Britannia on Grosvernor Square before. He said if he wasn't going for his Conquest Bonus, he would have moved. Another couple who just arrived were so displeased with their room, they were attempting to do so.

This is my third Hilton stay of the week (Paris Hilton; Heathrow Hilton, and now Green Park Hilton). It is the first to offer me no perks whatsoever - just that 25% bonus on my points!

May I suggest that you search the threads on this property and print these posts out and show the manager that even Silver VIPs got upgrades and other amenities and demand like treatment!!

I brought the printout from the Hilton HHonors web page on my trip. It states that for international properties, in the absence of an executive club, the hotel with either give a continental breakfast or an amenity. I took it to the front desk. After a discussion between the desk clerk and the duty manager, they have decided to give me a comp breakfast.

I have no quarrel with their failure to upgrade my room, given that the hotel is booked solid tonight. However, I do feel that my colleague's room should have been preblocked so that he at least got the non smoking room that he requested.

At European Hiltons, I usually find a bottle of wine or bowl of fruit in my room with a card from the Manager. I have always considered this to be the Amenity referred to, and never insisted on a breakfast or even use of the Executive Club if I have not been booked onto that floor, or upgraded to it. I guess I've been missing something. Wonder what to expect at the Kensington this weekend?

SanD --

I am glad that you got the breakfast -- lots of "strange" British "specialites", but I was referring to printing out various posts from THIS website to show that they had done some things for ELITES before.

Agreed, that they can't upgrade to something they just don't have. But I don't fault them for not giving your friend a N/S room if it was NOT Guaranteed as such. If they did gurantee that, then I would have a major problem, but I have had instances in Europe where I could get neither a King or a N/S guaranteed, depending on when I booked the room.

Adam if you are reading this

Something needs to be done about Green Park understanding the HH program. They did ?upgrade me when I stayed there (gold) - the reason for the question mark is that the room didn't seem an upgrade but was bigger than a broom closet. Since breakfast was included in my rate I asked about the amenity the web site says I should get - after politely pursuing this through three managers who gave me different answers (no it wasn't that important to me they kept passing the buck) I was told at check out "there was no such thing..."
This contrasts with my stays at other Hiltons (asia), where not only was I upgraded to executive and/or suite but was given fruit, chocolates and sometimes nice flavored water... all in all this does not bode well for green park - I will not stay there again- it isn't pleasant to be made to feel like a beggar just when asking for benefits which are listed. Thanks for your attention.

Doc 2 be - may I suggest that you change your standard "do a search and you will find out everything you wanted to know" to "a search may be helpful"... clearly there are more up to date info bits available as this thread amply demonstrates and I guess I find your standard response a bit condescending and maybe helpful to "newbies" but assuming that others don't know to search and then ask for more up to date info.

[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 02-14-2001).]

Originally posted by estnet:
Doc 2 be - may I suggest that you change your standard "do a search and you will find out everything you wanted to know" to "a search may be helpful"... clearly there are more up to date info bits available as this thread amply demonstrates and I guess I find your standard response a bit condescending and maybe helpful to "newbies" but assuming that others don't know to search and then ask for more up to date info.

[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 02-14-2001).]


ESTNET --


It was not meant to be condescending, and I hate to say this, but I think you are reading too much into this for as you will see below, I phrase things in many different ways. BTW, just so that I am clear, you are referring to my first post on this thread. Unfortunately, you have presented a rather one-sided picture to all those reading your comments. For example, you write:

"Doc 2 be -- may I suggest that you change your standard ...."

If you had looked at and/or remembered my second posting on this thread, dated 2/14/01 at 11:38 AM, above, you would have seen the following phrase in response to SanDiego 1K's post. It STARTS and READS as follows in its entirety:

"May I suggest that you search the threads on this property and print these posts out and show the manager that even Silver VIPs got upgrades and other amenities and demand like treatment!!"

Notice any similarity to the use of the words in both openings??? You will also note that it has not been edited, so I have not engaged in any sort of chicanery. As your beginning exactly matches mine above, I cannot help but think of that aphorism that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Thank you for the compliment!

In all sincerity, for some unknown reason, you have wanted to make an issue where I truly believe none exists, and which my writing style, as does yours, amply demonstrates.

But, I will nonetheless, attempt to phrase my words in a manner that will not give offense to you in the future.

With kind regards,


D2B

Originally posted by estnet:
Adam if you are reading this

Something needs to be done about Green Park understanding the HH program. They did ?upgrade me when I stayed there (gold) - the reason for the question mark is that the room didn't seem an upgrade but was bigger than a broom closet. Since breakfast was included in my rate I asked about the amenity the web site says I should get - after politely pursuing this through three managers who gave me different answers (no it wasn't that important to me they kept passing the buck) I was told at check out "there was no such thing..."
This contrasts with my stays at other Hiltons (asia), where not only was I upgraded to executive and/or suite but was given fruit, chocolates and sometimes nice flavored water... all in all this does not bode well for green park - I will not stay there again- it isn't pleasant to be made to feel like a beggar just when asking for benefits which are listed. Thanks for your attention.


[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 02-14-2001).]


ESTNET --

I will attempt to answer your question on behalf of Adam, so that he will not have to take any time from his busy schedule. I agree with you that it is not pleasant to be made to feel that you are a beggar when you are asking for something that you are rightfully entitled to, hence my assistance, above, this very day, to SanDiego 1K, that you evidently overlooked in both form, as well as substance.

That having been said, I feel it incumbent to inform you that NO Hilton hotel is ever required to upgrade you to a suite. Further, you misapprehend the requirements that the International Hiltons (which, you no doubt do not know, are a separate company from the US Hiltons and Conrads) are required to conform to. I list the relevant passage stating those requirements below:


"At Hilton hotels outside the U.S. with Executive Floors, Gold VIPs will be provided with a guest room on the Executive Floor, whenever possible. In cases when there are no Executive Floors or where Executive Floor accommodations have been fully booked, Gold VIP members will be offered a complimentary continental breakfast each morning or an alternative special amenity."


As you have correctly noted, the Green Park has no Executive Floor, and therefore, they are required to provide you with either a breakfast or other such amenity. Inasmuch as you were receiving breakfast in your rate, I agree with you that you also had a right to receive a special amenity. However, you are neglecting the fact that the Green Park management, did, indeed, provide you with such a special amenity.

On 01-01-2001, at 05:57 PM you filed a Trip Report regarding your stay at the Green Park. In fact, among other things, you wrote the following:


"London Hilton Green Park had a special single rate of 73 pounds and one of 53 with a huge cancellation penalty so I booked the 73."

I agree with your decision to do so, as I have just had to cancel my own President's Day plans in London because of the flu. Fortunately, I did not book a nonrefundable rate, as well.

You went on to note, however, that it was a:

"nice hotel - they give me an u[p]g[rade] to a double room (regular price 210 pounds - I asked), but no extra amenity for being gold since breakfast is included in the rate."

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your "special amenity," could very well be interpreted as the room upgrade that the management generously gave you, when they moved you from a single bedded room to one with a larger double bed. I have no doubt, having stayed there many times before, and having seen many of the rooms at the hotel, that the room that you were lodged in, was much larger by far than that with the single bed. Furthermore, the difference in the room rates was quite significant, as it amounted to 137 GBP before the 17.5% VAT; with that added in, the rate that you paid was discounted by an extraordinary 161 GBP! At today's exchange rate that is an astounding $235 in savings, PER NIGHT!!

I do not know about your finances, but I would call that a VERY SPECIAL AMENITY. Therefore, in the scope of things, IMHO, you received quite a nice gift from the management of the Green Park and that they lived up to their obligations to you in every respect.

In addition, you also had taken me somewhat to task by asserting that my advice to ORD to perform a search was somehow incomplete, as you wrote that as a result of the statements made in this thread, there "clearly ... are more up to date info bits available as this thread amply demonstrates ."

With all due respect, Estnet, my suggestion preceded those postings of MrNice and San Diego 1K, above, but it obviously encompassed every other bit of information on file with regard to the Green Park when I made it. Therefore, I am at a total loss as to the import of your assertion.

I might hazard that somehow you have become disenchanted with my postings, for a reason known entirely to yourself, as your criticism of me does not comport with the help that I had rendered to you prior to your sojourn at the Green Park. Indeed, my advice to both ORD as well as San Diego, has been consonant with my attempts to render assistance to those where I may do the most good.

Therefore, I feel that you have been misguided in both your understanding of my writings, as well as those requirements that a hotel's management must abide by under the HHonors VIP rules.

Doc 2 be

I did not intend offence, in fact your pointing out that the green park did not have a/c vs Mews did (in a previous post) was very helpful and I believe I thanked you - if I didn't I meant to.

I in no way EXPECTED a suite or an upgrade, I meant to point out that it is hard to tell what is an upgrade at some hotels (usually an upgrade and an amenity(mineral water, chocolates, etc) are separate items - the "double" room I had was what I have had for standard rooms at many hotels where I have no status and would not have known it was an upgrade had I not been told (in my previous post the rate I said they told me was the rack rate I don't know who pays rack rates for a London hotel on Dec 30 but there is NO WAY I would have paid this for this room - but clearly that is my value system) had I - didn't know their regular singles were the size of a broom closet.
While the rate I paid at the Green Park was a good rate (it was the night before New Years a very low time for the hotel, had I stayed the next night it would have been more than 5x the rate) - the rates I paid where I was upgraded to better accomodations were even lower - so I just felt very lucky- I do truely understand upgrades are an amenity NOT
a right.

I may have confused US and out of US hotels
" And in hotels at which a complimentary breakfast is a benefit for all guests, Gold VIPs will be offered a special amenity as an expression of our appreciation." The wording for international hotels is more ambigious - my belief was that if breakfast was included in the rate or included for everyone gold's would get another amenity - I could have been wrong. Perhaps the asian hotels were just especially nice giving me an upgrade AND fruit and chocolate as well as free food and drinks in the lounge - but you (and Adam) can BET I will go out of my way to stay in those hotels again, even though I am not guaranteed such nice treatment next time just BECAUSE they were so nice to me.
I do not appreciate your answering for Adam, but perhaps I was not clear about my concern. It is the inconsistency with which elite members are treated within the Hilton family (eg while at the Green Park I went to check on a future AWARD stay at the Mews and the response I got was "oh I'll be sure to note that you should get an upgrade" (which is more than I expected on an award but it certainly made me feel special)It is really about the courtesy with which we are treated that makes or breaks it for me and others.
There have been MANY reports about inconsistencies of treatment of elite members at Green Park, and at London Hilton (which others have noted and even changed their corporate policies) and I simply meant to call it to Adams attention since so many different people have had problems. He has expressed interest and concern about these kind of issues in the past.

I by no means wanted to start a flame war -if you have any other personal issues with me why don't you address them to me in email? Hope this clarifies things for you.

[This message has been edited by estnet (edited 02-15-2001).]

Estnet --

It is not I who have personal issues with you, but you who have expressed personal issues with me, and the way I have crafted my response to various posters. By replying to your post in a deliberate, but non emotional manner, I have attempted to do nothing more than indicate to you where I think you have been erroneous in your assessment. Indeed, in your reply above, you have not even discussed my rebuttal to the very point that you had brought to my and everybody's else's attention -- your admonishing me, albeit gently, for the way I seemingly replied to ORD. It is my fervent hope that inasmuch as you have made no reply to this argument, that you may now perhaps concede that you were mistaken in your belief. I have done nothing more than to attempt to point out to you that your issue with my phrasing and its seeming effect upon you, emanates solely from within yourself, and not from without, for you cannot argue with the fact that the very words that I have used in a post to assist another FTer, are the very ones that you, yourself, have used. I am the first to accept responsibility for something I may have done in an improper manner, but in this instance, I think your criticism is very much misplaced.

With respect to your understanding of the Hilton rules, I am glad that I could have been of assistance to you in clarifying them. One of the benefits of being an attorney is one's ability to ATTEMPT to decipher various rules, regulations and contractual terms -- I guess it goes with the territory.

With respect to your concern that many hotels are not following the rules of the HHonors program, I am totally sympathetic to your concern and in agreement with you. In fact, that is why I immediately posted my reply to SanDiego 1K, when I read of his problem. However, aside from SanDiego 1K's circumstance, where the management was clearly in the wrong, I cannot think of another time where the Green Park was at fault. As I have attempted to discuss above, I think the Green Park was under the legitimate impression that they had satisfied their obligation to you under the HHonors program. I think, although I could be wrong, that your calling attention to the Green Park was in part motivated by your being upset by the fact that other Elites, such as MrNice, appear to have received better VIP treatment, whereas you felt you did not. Indeed, you wrote as much in your reply of 1/5/01 to Viajera's posting that although she was but a Silver VIP, she was grateful to the Green Park management for having upgraded her to a King or Queen room with a whirlpool bath, and that she was also given a box of chocolates and some mineral water by the staff. In reply you stated:

"Wow I had no luck with ANY amenity as a gold! (except did get an upgraded room without seating area or Internet access) Would have loved some chocolates -- the manager must have really liked you."

I, too, do not much like it when it appears that another guest has been favored by some staff member and had perhaps received a slightly larger room or other such amenity, but that is just the luck of the draw, and it is very much dependent upon the interplay of the personalities of those in the drama. Indeed, the one hotel that appears to be a constant violator of these rules is the London Hilton, and I have no objection to having them taken to task. However, you are clearly in the wrong if you think that no American Hilton is a transgressor, for if you were to read about the Alexandria Old Town Hilton, as well as certain others properties in the DC area, you would see that they often flout these rules, as well. In point of fact, they are much more likely not to honor these rules than has the Green Park. Therefore, your singling out the Green Park I think was premature, especially since SanDiego 1K was eventually successful in persuading them to live up to their obligations.


I have no problem with Adam looking into the matter of certain hotels not honoring their commitments under the HHonors program. I do, however, disagree with you that the Green Park is a hotel that presents an especial cause for concern.

doc 2 be

I don't know if I am not clear or if you can't understand my points - since you have chosen not to reply by email this is my last attempt to clarify to this thread

1)"Indeed, in your reply above, you have not even discussed my rebuttal to the very point that you had brought to my and everybody's else's attention"- I have no idea what you are referring to. I do not need be right all the time, nor to be "more correct than you" I was just expressing my opinion

2) My "wow" comment that you quote ( where do you find the time to do this stuff or maybe you have a photographic memory http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ) was not jealousy but just a friendly statement. I do not begrude someone great stuff - sometimes I'm lucky sometimes they are - and that is as it should be. In general I have been treated very well (by Hilton and the world)

3) I was not "picking" on Green Park - it's a nice place and there are nice people working there - it's just that that was where I had my experience and others have amply commented on their inconsistent experiences both in US and non US locations.

I don't think you have "helped" me imo understand Hiltons rules, they are somewhat ambiguous in regard to the non US hotels. An upgrade is a type of amenity, but separate from what I believe they mean as an amenity (as opposed to the general usage of the word) on the website ...but it is not a big deal

I find it interesting that you take offence to my comments but urge another FT to print out .... and "demand like treatment" - should I have done this about the FTer who got whirlpool, etc.? I wouldn't even THINK of that - good for him/her and I have certainly have had my share of luck. I'm glad when good things happen to other people.

Do I expect/insist on a suite when I return to the hotel where I had received it as a "gift" - NO - I will go out of my way to return there because I appreciate what they did and how I was treated and believe in showing my appreciation by giving them more business if I possibly can.

Again, I am not sure why you took offense - none was intended. I personally find info offered besides just "do a search" very nice and helpful (even if it is a repeat) - you did offer the helpful info on the Picadilly line.
Lighten up... there are much more important problems in the world. Enough of this http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Originally posted by estnet:
doc 2 be


"1)"Indeed, in your reply above, you have not even discussed my rebuttal to the very point that you had brought to my and everybody's else's attention"- I have no idea what you are referring to.""

Estnet -- I am referring to your statement that my response to ORD was a "bit condescending."

I do not need be right all the time, nor to be "more correct than you" I was just expressing my opinion"[/QUOTE]"

Estnet -- I do not need to be correct all the time, as well; however, when your opinion is a comment about my actions, and I feel that it unfairly mischaracterizes them, I will certainly point that out to you. I would hope that you would do the same in a like situation.

2) My "wow" comment that you quote ( where do you find the time to do this stuff or maybe you have a photographic memory http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ) was not jealousy but just a friendly statement. I do not begrude someone great stuff - sometimes I'm lucky sometimes they are - and that is as it should be. In general I have been treated very well (by Hilton and the world)"[/QUOTE]"

Estnet -- In point of fact, I do have a very good memory, although it is nowhere near photographic, and with age, and continued imbibing of ETOH, I lose more grey cells every day!

3) I was not "picking" on Green Park - it's a nice place and there are nice people working there - it's just that that was where I had my experience and others have amply commented on their inconsistent experiences both in US and non US locations."[/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- I guess we disagree as to the import of your writings. In one post you state that it was a nice place, and then, after learning of other people getting certain other perks, you state that you will never stay there again. Now, immediately above, you once again write that it is a "nice place." I cannot keep up with you! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif


I don't think you have "helped" me imo understand Hiltons rules, they are somewhat ambiguous in regard to the non US hotels. An upgrade is a type of amenity, but separate from what I believe they mean as an amenity (as opposed to the general usage of the word) on the website ...but it is not a big deal"[/QUOTE]"

Estnet -- Well, I tried.


I find it interesting that you take offence to my comments but urge another FT to print out .... and "demand like treatment" - should I have done this about the FTer who got whirlpool, etc.? I wouldn't even THINK of that - good for him/her and I have certainly have had my share of luck. I'm glad when good things happen to other people."[/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- Your knowledge of the whirlpool came from Viajera, who stayed at the Green Park, AFTER you did, so unless you are clairvoyant, you would not have known about it.

With respect to demanding "like treatment," my reference to the other posts was for SanDiego 1 K, in the face of his not getting ANYTHING he deserved under the HHonors rules, was for him to simply present and show to the management, that they had, indeed, provided such benefits in the past, nothing more. Luckily for him, he was carrying a copy of the rules with him, a tactic that I think everyone, here, should likewise follow.

Do I expect/insist on a suite when I return to the hotel where I had received it as a "gift" - NO - I will go out of my way to return there because I appreciate what they did and how I was treated and believe in showing my appreciation by giving them more business if I possibly can."[/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- I heartily agree with you.


Again, I am not sure why you took offense - none was intended."[/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- As noted above, your statement that I was a bit condescending is what I found offensive.


I personally find info offered besides just "do a search" very nice and helpful (even if it is a repeat) - you did offer the helpful info on the Picadilly line."[/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- Thank you. I try my best.


Lighten up... there are much more important problems in the world. Enough of this http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif [/QUOTE]"


Estnet -- I am as light as a feather, and I agree that there are many more pressing concerns, but when I feel that my actions have been mischaracterized, I will always respond so that the record is set straight. I feel no more need to post a response as I think you now get the gist of my disagreement with you.



[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 02-15-2001).]

(Sorry, I inadvertanly posted this elsewhere)...
.... .. ..
(1) I do not know of any European Hilton, Conrad Hotels etc which will guarantee a nice "NONSMOKING" room. I personally really wish they did (actually the same policy is in effect for the USA). You can "request" but no guarantee will be actually be given.
(2) I checked in late and was bushed. I did not ask for and probably was not upgraded at the Hilton Green Park (HH Platinum did not appear on the reservation). My room was approx 18 ft x 14 ft, one comfy king bed and about 1/3 of that space being a huge bathroom. IMHO the room was larger than most European hotels. A full breakfast WAS included in my nice rate. It was excellent except the eggs were somewhat watery. No amenity was given or asked for.
(3) I have never received an amenity at the Hilton Kensington. The Metropole gives a small box of really nice yummy chocolates and the Conrad gives a nice big fruit basket.......both occurred only about 50% of the time.
(4) I probably have been the loudest voice on the Hilton board regarding missed, not-given, not-entitled-to upgrades, free breakfasts etc. Some really big strides have been made by Hilton, but it aint 100% by a long shot. I do not wish to claim any credit for it either. I gotta enough problems.
(5) I usually start my trip with six (6) printed copies of the HH T&C and return with 1-2 copies. , the rest being left with the various managers (for enlightenment) at the hotels. Please, everybody do this and maybe the promises will keep being forfilled in a more timely fashion.
(6) The rooms at the Green Park appear to stretch over about 4-6 adjoining buildings. I would bet they encompass a huge range of types and sizes.
MisterNice
*HH T&C

MrNice --


Totally in agreement with you! I ALWAYS carry a copy of the T & C with me, and your leaving them with the managers is a very nice touch. I would just hasten to add, that small rooms are a way of life at most London hotels, and they are even more so, at "old" hotels that were built prior to WW II.

Therefore, there is a tremendous variation in room type in these hotels, as they do not have a standard "cookie-cutter" layout. Finally, it should be noted, as you have alluded to, that the Green Park is actually a collection of converted townhouses from the early 18th Century, and it strains credulity to expect them to have rooms that are all nearly the same size.

With all due respect to my UK colleagues, the sizes of some of the rooms in these older hotels, may be a holdover from the infamous "class system" so prevalent in the UK before WW II, and which is now fading, albeit slowly, away.

Further, with all due respect to my fellow US colleagues, one should not expect the types of large rooms, overseas, that we have here at home. And my biggest peeve, one should DEFINITELY NOT EXPECT EUROPEAN A/C TO APPROXIMATE THAT OF OURS HERE IN THE GOOD OL' USA!!

Hello,

I was just last night in Hilton Green Park in London - I have never been so angry. I am Diamond VIP, so I am expecting some extras.

At check in they told once again (like so often lately in Hiltons) that they cannot provede any special room. Or actually what they said was that they have upgraded me to a double room (I am travelling alone so I have booked a single room). Anyway in most of the hotels I know, they have only double room, but you can book it as a single one.

I have extra notices in my reservation that I would appreciate an upgrade. The guy in the check in anyway told me that some other VIPs arrived earlier and they got the best room.

I was waiting like 10 minutes to get into check in. So designated area for VIP at check in like in some other locations.

My room was SO SMALL. Normally my bathroom is bigger than that one. I was told at reception that there are some extras like mineral water etc. in the room, but there was nothing!!!

This hotel does not have an executive floor, neither lounge, so actually no benefits for VIPs. I finally called to check in and asked are they going to send fruits or something to me and they promised to do so. THey told that it has not been done, since they thought I am a blue card member (I made the reservation at Hilton homepage in the internet stating my card number and I showed it at check in, so I guess people working in that hotel are blind).

Well, after waiting like 40 minutes, I was already so angry about waiting these extras that I called to the duty manager and asked what are the extras they provide to Diamond VIPs. Do you guess what she replies...possible room upgrade, mineral water and a newspaper. THAT'S IT!!! Nothing extra...I guess normally you get that water and newspapers as blue or at least Silver member.

Well, in the morning when I left the hotel...I did not got a newspaper. I am just asking myself, why to use Hiltons, since their hhonors programs really stinks. Even as Diamond you do not get real extras. I am also a Starwood Platinum and normally always get a suite without any fights. Am I the only one having these problems or what do you think?

Originally posted by hmattila:
Am I the only one having these problems or what do you think?[/B]

You don´t seem to be alone. I stayed in Brussels Residence last Tuesday and they completely ignored my gold status. I asked nicely about an upgrade which they couldn´t provide since they were fully booked. Fine. I went to the room expecting maybe a box of chocolates, fruit, mineral water basically just something to say welcome and thanks for business. Nada.

Next morning I had a disappointing continental breakfast at the lobby which according to the hilton.com was complimentary. I checked out and found an extra 700 BEF (USD 15) on my bill. Breakfast. Just perfect. Now there were some problems. First of all, the lousy breakfast was supposed to be free. Secondly, according to the HHonors membership guide if they can´t provide un upgraded room to gold and diamond members they are supposed to offer a free breakfast. I naturally asked about it and they said that they haven´t even heard of any complimentary breakfasts offered to gold/diamond members and they were not aware that hilton.com offers free breakfasts... I was first one to ask for a free breakkie.

Me being a lowly gold I wasn´t expecting much, just little something would have made happy...

hmattila,

I stayed at the Hilton Green Park on Monday and Tuesday evenings of this week. I had reserved a suite under the Winter Breaks promotion.

While the room itself was okay, I was rather disappointed to open the curtains and find myself staring at an airshaft. Hardly what I had expected to find.

I too spoke the night duty manager, but was told there were no other room available unless I wanted to downgrade myself to a regular room.

I declined the downgrade, thank you very much.

------------------
danville 1K

Hmattila --

I wish you had done a search of this board for the Green Park and read the comments about it, especially mine, before you had stayed there. You would have found out that although they could have sent you some fruit, etc., that was not assured.



[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 03-11-2001).]

Well, to explain my reaction to you DOC 2 BE. What I was mostly angry about was the attitude. Why Hilton gives out different VIP cards, if the staff totally ignores them. I think mineral water and free newspaper are part of the benefits in all the hotels and even for Silver VIP. I had to call them 3 times, before they told that ok you can get your Diamond Benefits = 1 bottle of mineral water.

I am also Starwood Platinum and Hyatt Diamond, so I am all the time comparing the different chains. So far I have always got a suite in Starwood properties...something you can just dream about at Hiltons.

I am travelling on business, so the price is not the issue, when selecting hotel. Anyway, I am interested to test different hotels. I just wanted to send my message as a warning (like I guess you did before) for other passangers (or at leasts Golds and Diamonds) to avoid Green park.

Hilton Metropol in London for instance gives upgrades, has a nice location and staff, have a lounge and gives water, chocolate etc. without fighting an hour with duty manager...

Hmattila --

I certainly understand your frustration with an unresponsive hotel staff. It is just a function of expectations concerning the room. I had nice stays at the property as I felt that the price of the rooms that I paid for considering the location was worth it.

[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 03-11-2001).]

IMHO, the Green Park is what it is....a basic hotel with a good location. We just returned from the hotel 2/16-19. I do not have status with Hilton, just saw that the hotel had the best rates for my dates while I checked on line. Booked their Valentine's & Winter Break Packages for about 100gbp and we got a basic room and breakfast. I think if you are looking for more thank that,one of the other Hiltons in town would be better suited.

Be forewarned if you're booked at the Hilton Green Park this week......

In London today the temperature is hovering right at 90, which is as warm as it is in Greece (or so I've been told).

As it turns out there is one Hilton in London that isn't air conditioned...... and guess which one it is http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif I'm not making many points with my boss, her boss, or the really big boss (my dear wife), as I'm the person who made the reservations http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/eek.gif

------------------
danville 1K

Ah yes London in the heat. Was once there in 90 degree weather. Hotel room had no ac nor cross-ventilation. Impossible to sleep. People were dying (literally) in London. Theatres were unbearable. I much preferred winter weather there, believe it or not.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by Eastbay1K:
Ah yes London in the heat. Was once there in 90 degree weather. Hotel room had no ac nor cross-ventilation. Impossible to sleep. People were dying (literally) in London. Theatres were unbearable. I much preferred winter weather there, believe it or not.</font>


Since the Hilton Hyde Park is an "old hotel," unless the hotel website says that it does have a/c, I would not plan on it be there either! Further, I think that someone also had reported by way of their misery, that the Edinburgh Caledonian Hilton also had no a/c.

One word of cation when checking this or any other hotel. When the description says a/c public rooms -- that mean there is a/c in the reception lounge or similar areas, but NOT in your hotel room!

Be warned!

In this hotel there is one suite with AC, and even there the entire suite is not air conditioned, just the bedroom.

The public areas are not air conditioned either.

------------------
danville 1K

I just woke up here in London, at the Millennium Knightsbridge, which DOES have A/C, and it WENT OUT at3:30 am. It seems that London and Hot Weather just don't mix.

Hopefully, it'll be fixed by tonite. Otherwise it's back to Hilton for me tonite (but Islington is the only one with a cheap rate. Green Park wants L260 for no A/C!

Hilton Islingotn --

Nice hotel, fairly large rooms, all with a/c, funky area, funky hotel lounge/breakfast area.

Enjoy!

Even when there is air conditioning provided in UK hotels including Hiltons it is seldom as effective as A/C in US hotels. London Metropole (New Tower) is an exception. UK A/C feels more like a draft than anything else..

A/C is useless in London.
There are 3 sunny days per year http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

Yep, each Green Park room comes with an old fan and with windows impossible to open. I now only stay there in the winter. The steam radiators are nostalgic and nicely wonderful.

MisterNice

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by Sylvest941:
A/C is useless in London.
There are 3 sunny days per year http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif</font>

Well we found all three of them.........



------------------
danville 1K

Remember that almost all the "Hiltons" in the UK are owned by Stakis, an organization
renowned for their Scottish frugality. You should not expect much more than their corporate tradition!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by 1k4ver:
Remember that almost all the "Hiltons" in the UK are owned by Stakis, an organization
renowned for their Scottish frugality. You should not expect much more than their corporate tradition! </font>


This is not quite accurate, for Hilton had a fairly large presence in the UK through its' "regular" Hilton brand, as well as its' Hilton National properties. Although the latter were by no mean luxurious, they usually had A/C (albeit the weaker European variety).

Another inaccuracy is that Stakis presently owns the hotels, for it is Hilton that does so. Finally, if I am wrong please correct me, but I think the Hilton London Islington was a former Stakis property, and it most certainly does have A/C as it is quite new.

Therefore, although it is certainly true that older hotels might not have A/C and other amenities (health clubs, etc.), it is by no means accurate to paint all the former Stakis properties with so broad a brush.

[This message has been edited by DOC 2 BE (edited 06-29-2001).]

I know there are multiple threads concerning the Hilton Green Park on Half Moon Street in London.

I am having a heck of a time deciding whether or not to stay there in November and was wondering if anyone had any recent experience (say the last six weeks) with staying there and, if so, if you could share them.

Thanks http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

lele, what are you hoping to learn from experience in the past six weeks? I mean that with all respect. I have known this hotel for the past 15 years; I have stayed there a couple times, the last time in February - and time moves on very slowly at this property. To the best of my knowledge, the hotel hasn't been renovated this summer - so what do you hope to learn from someone who stayed there in the past six weeks that might differ from an earlier post?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SanDiego1K:
lele, what are you hoping to learn from experience in the past six weeks? I mean that with all respect. I have known this hotel for the past 15 years; I have stayed there a couple times, the last time in February - and time moves on very slowly at this property. To the best of my knowledge, the hotel hasn't been renovated this summer - so what do you hope to learn from someone who stayed there in the past six weeks that might differ from an earlier post?</font>

San, with all due respect.....the previous posts all referred to problems with the A/C - obviously, in the past six weeks the climate has changed in London and I am hoping to learn that the hotel fares better in the heat department than it apparently did in the a/c department.

I'm well aware things move slowly in London - I personally think it is part of the charm but, it never hurts to get recent opinions.

IMHO, Green Park is one of the worst Hilton properties I have ever had the misfortune to stay at. I stayed just 2 months ago; refurbishment due to start in March next year, apparently. I found plaster falling from the ceilings, peeling and chipped paint, filthy sofas, broken windows, poor service....and no aircon (!)
FWIW, I would strongly suggest that you stay ANYWHERE else in London. I can thoroughly recommend the Trafalgar, Hilton Kensington and Conrad at Chelsea Harbour.

The Langham, too, is a good choice (although I'm still waiting for ANY reply to my complaint that they didn't hhonor my Gold VIP upgrade or breakfast benefit.)

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SST:
The Langham, too, is a good choice (although I'm still waiting for ANY reply to my complaint that they didn't hhonor my Gold VIP upgrade or breakfast benefit.)</font>

You liked the Langham? I only stayed once; IMO, great location, smart public areas, but I was seriously unimpressed with the room I had, which was WAY too small, even by European standards and the general decor and ambience was pretty poor. Now, if they'd honoured my Gold status and given me an upgrade, maybe things would've been better, but they didn't...and I've received no response to my complaint about that either.

I'm disappointed to say that the situation has not improved in many months. I stayed there using points in November for one night-- absymal stay for all the reasons hmattila enumerated. I'm fighting now to have my points refunded-- I received a letter from the staff basically admitting they're not as nice a property as I've should come to have expected from Hilton.

This was very timely. I am planning to go to London in January. I've stayed at the Green Park which I call my hole in the wall hotel. I hate the hotel but love the location and rates. In one tube stop you are at Herrods, two stops its the theatre district. Across the street, the hop on hop off bus stops. So sometimes I stay there. They have great rates 59GBP for Jan 17-20, but found a 74GBP at the Paddington and decided to go with this.

Just to reinforce that, while the Green Park isn't the Trafalgar or Paddington, it's not a bad choice.

I posted more details in the London summary thread, but, even with no upgrade available because the hotel was fully booked (as verified by the web site), I found the staff friendly and helpful and the room adequate.

The location is great with easy access to transportation. Several decent restaurants close by. Breakfast is ok. Room was quiet and clean. Good temperature control when I visited in March. Hallways are run down. No high speed Internet or Wi-Fi. I'd stay there again on a cheap rate.
Rich

[This message has been edited by rjh (edited 03-12-2003).]

Yeah but no air conditioning in a 4 star hotel? Even the cheapest motels in the US have AC. A major issue because I was in London in August. Just my thoughts.

just got back yesterday, they gave me a funky small room the 1st night but "upgraded" me to a decent room the rest of the stay (5 nights) the staff was friendly, the location is great and the price was right at 59GBP

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Hilton Green Park in Mayfair is please to announce it has embarked on a multi-million pound refurbishment programme. The refit, which is due to be completed in the autumn of 2003, will cover the hotel's 163 guestrooms, bathrooms and corridors. The project is due for completion in the autumn of 2003 and will be undertaken in phases so as to ensure that the many regular guests can still enjoy the great location and facilities that the hotel has to offer. Please note that the hotel restaurant will be closed for dinner for the period 29th May to 30th June, the hotel Concierge will however be more than happy to recommend alternative excellent local restaurants. </font>

I've got a GLON 6 nighter booked here in Decmber so I hope the work is finished by then! This property has a GREAT location but many posters have given it less than stellar reviews. Perhaps the updates will serve it well!

If only they'd toss in the Westin Heavenly Bed... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

I hope they add air conditioning. I've stayed at the Green Park in the winter, due to its stellar location. I would never take the risk on summer weather being cool enough to not require AC.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SanDiego1K:
I hope they add air conditioning. I've stayed at the Green Park in the winter, due to its stellar location. I would never take the risk on summer weather being cool enough to not require AC.</font>

Found this out the hard way last August. Funny thing is, I called several weeks before to ask if they had air-conditioning in the rooms. They told me yes. I guess a floor-stand fan is considered AC in the UK http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif
Ended up staying at the Hilton Park Lane down a little ways at a rate 3X the one at Green Park. But I needed my AC in the summer.

Several folks have alluded to construction and remodeling taking place at this hotel this summer; has anyone stayed there in the last month who can comment on whether this situation makes the hotel unbearable? I've got an upcoming London trip in 3 weeks; the 82-pound rate is hard to beat, but not, of course, if you can't sleep past 6:30.

I stayed there for all of 20 minutes last August before moving on over to the Park Lane. I would think that they would need to do a complete teardown to fix all the issues that they have. The fact that there are so many Hiltons in the vicinity should give them enough reason to do a good job redoing the Green Park. The location is great though.

Here is a bump...

Anyone have any late summer update on how the renovations are progressing at the Green Park Hilton?

The website still says completion by the fall of this year. I'll be there late this year and hope all's well by then...

geo1005:

There is NO A/C in the building.

You have been warned!

PS -- Some rooms in the Docklands are not air conditioned, as well.

No Air Conditioning in any of the rooms at the Hilton Mews either. I just avoid London hotels without AC in the summer. That town may have a cold and drizzly reputation with many, but let me tell you...it's can be sweltering there!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by PremEx:
No Air Conditioning in any of the rooms at the Hilton Mews either. I just avoid London hotels without AC in the summer. That town may have a cold and drizzly reputation with many, but let me tell you...it's can be sweltering there!</font>

I have stayed there and it does have A/C. It may be that you were there on a very hot day and it was ineffective as many A/C units in Europe are.

Please see:


[quote]All 72 rooms reflect the traditional atmosphere of our unique townhouse hotel. Incorporated in all our guest rooms are indivdual climate control....

http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/hotels/accommodations_detail_std.jhtml?ctyhocn=LONMWTW

Moreover, amond the amenities listed is " Air Conditioning."

Well the 3 times I've been there the rooms had no air conditioning and unfortunately there was only "Climate Control" which I found out the hard way meant you could only turn the heat on or off. I even walked over there with Catman this past January to show him the hotel, and the manager again pointed out to us that there was no air conditioning. I assumed he meant the whole hotel, but I suppose he could have meant only the single rooms on the top floor that we were showing Catman (which is the only type of room I've been in there).

I'd definitely be interested in this hotel for Summer months if I knew I could get an air conditioned room here. I'll try contacting them to find out what the skinny is.

And BTW, the web site also lists Room Service as 24 hours at The Mews. This also is not correct from my experience.

"Incorporated in all our guest rooms are indivdual climate control" (sic) .. does climate control mean cold air conditioning?

Given the UK climate is predominately wet and cold, except for a few short weeks/months, this statement could reflect room temperature controlled heating.

Both of you are correct in your skepticism, that is why I also noted that under the listed room amenities is the statement about air conditioned rooms.

If they don't have any, or even a limited supply, then I certainly think that Hilton owes you a refund if you are placed in a non-a/c room as the website clearly states that the rooms do have a/c.

Of course, that is quite different that inadequately air conditioned rooms that I have found to be mostly the case throughout Europe, as compared to what we Americans have come to expect.

One exception -- I do seem to recall that my stay in the fairly new West Tower of the Metropole was great and the room had a very good A/C unit functioning. In addition, when I used their small health club to do a jog on the treadmill, I found that it was absolutely fantastic, as they had a constant stream of very cold air coming into the club to cool one off while they were exercising.

PS -- Among its other failings noted on this board, I certainly would not be surprised if the Hilton Hyde Park also lacks A/C, as it is an older hotel.

[This message has been edited by NJUPINTHEAIR (edited 08-10-2003).]

Agree. The Hilton Metropole has full-on "Central" Air Conditioning in all it's rooms. That's where we often stay in the Summer for that very reason (well...and the fact that we get our HHonors stay and points credit, of course). We've never had a problem getting our room to chillin in the Summer there.

But...on the down side, it lacks that certain local charm and old London flavor that some of the older hotels have. Like The Mews, which I think is wonderful in this regards (not to mention a great location) even with the sometimes smallish rooms there. Just a few feet behind The Mews is a quiet and charming local city "village" (sorry, forgot the name of it) with great little shops, restaurants, pubs, cafés, etc galore! Hard to imagine when you're tucked in there, that you're just one block away from the crowds at St. James!

[This message has been edited by PremEx (edited 08-10-2003).]

Agreed, but I usually like modern and the Metropole's rooms and health club, not to mention pool are great. Moreover, their Executive Lounge is also fabulous and something that the Mews does not have.

Stayed at the Mews before the Metropole and the other Stakis properties came into the fold. Behind the Mews is a great Turkish Restaurant -- part of a small chain -- named Sofra. It is very good and it is open quite late for London.

Enjoy!

Meanwhile - back at the Hilton Green Park - the renovations continue... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif


As I'll be there (remember everyone, we are talking the Green Park now...) in DECEMBER, I'm not too worried about air conditioning (central or otherwise). http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif


I agree with PremEx on the excellent location of both the Mews and Green Park.

As for the progress of the renovations at the Green Park?????? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by geo1005 (edited 08-12-2003).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Behind the Mews is a great Turkish Restaurant -- part of a small chain -- named Sofra.</font>


Thanks NJUPINTHEAIR - I'll give it a try!

geo1005:


One of the concierges at the Green Park is Turkish and knows the resto very well. IMHO, the Green Park is even better located than the Mews, b/c it is literally 500 yards from the GP tube stop.

I'd be interested in a report on the renovations as well, as a # of folk will be staying at GPH for the Nov London Do.

------------------
Sharon

SST- Where did you get that 82 pound rate? I tried to get a good price for a double for the last part of this month but couldn't. Stayed there last Aug. in a tiny room with a peculiar arrangement-the bathroom was 4 steps down from the bedroom, off the tiny entrance hall. What a room to put seniors in! I was afraid we'd forget and break our necks in the middle of the night. I hate to waste electricity but I had to leave the bathroom light on all night. Hope that they can redesign these rooms somehow.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SkiAdcock:
I'd be interested in a report on the renovations as well, as a # of folk will be staying at GPH for the Nov London Do.
</font>


Things that go BUMP in the night....


Any updates on the renovations???

I got the L82 rate off the Hilton website, believe it or not. But we stayed only one night of the planned few, because conditions at this hotel stunk..... literally. Apparently there had been some sort of pipe breakage, and the second floor carpeting was "sort of" cleaned (according to our bellboy, who was really nice), and we demanded another room on a higher floor. In any case, they had a serious problem there a few weeks ago.

And the bedroom we got upstairs was renovated: it was night and day different than the one we were assigned at first, even as Diamond VIPs (both of us). OTOH, there was NO air conditioning, it was hot, and we decided after an unannounced walk-in by the maid (despite the do not disturb sign) that this hotel is just not serious.

It cost a mint to move to the Park Lane down the street, but we did it.

Perhaps this hotel would be a fair value if it were £84 all the time, and you stayed in the winter, and the sign said "Hampton Inn". IF you got the renovated room. It's just not up to Hilton standards.

(Haven't tried the Mews, but it looks much nicer).

Anyone been here lately? Can you please tell me about internet access. Thanks

They have wireless hi-speed Wi-Fi in the downstairs public areas (lobby, restaurant, bar) for a fee through some provider. Don't recall what if any options they have in the guestrooms.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by RTWSTARALLIANCE:
Anyone been here lately? Can you please tell me about internet access. Thanks</font>

The last time I stayed there no high speed internet access was available. To boot the place is a dump. I'd avoid it at all costs.

The Hilton Paddington is much nicer, although I'm not sure of the high speed internet access.

------------------
danville 1K

The place WAS a dump. I recntly got "walked" there (kicking and screaming, as I remember the bad old days). Got a very nice suite. While the hallways are still narrow and the lobby is still crap, the rooms are done in modern minimalist style. That being said there was no broadband, just the tv access junky kind.

Too bad, in a way, that the renovation took place. The location is great and I found that a few pints made the elevation changes in the hallways quite tolerable.

I assume we won't see a lot of £59 rooms anymore, either.

Let's hope that they didn't replicate the Trafalgar's lobby/bar ventilation system with the other minimalist improvements.
Rich

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by RTWSTARALLIANCE:
Anyone been here lately? Can you please tell me about internet access. Thanks</font>

I think I have a little bit of an idea for the type of properties you like. That being said, stay away from this place. Try the Hilton Park Lane or the many others in LON.

Thanks. Just came back from the Park Lane. I have lost a little sleep over this reservation but have decided to stick with it. Rate is great, close to Green Park tube stop from LHR, need the Hilton stay and we took a look from outside when last there. So I will give it a shot. Thanks for implying my intended standard.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by RTWSTARALLIANCE:
Thanks. Just came back from the Park Lane. I have lost a little sleep over this reservation but have decided to stick with it. Rate is great, close to Green Park tube stop from LHR, need the Hilton stay and we took a look from outside when last there. So I will give it a shot. Thanks for implying my intended standard.</font>

Never judge a book by it's cover! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Good Luck! At least you won't be in need of air conditioning.

Stayed at the Kensington Hilton recently. W-Lan in Lobby was BT (same as LHR airport) and the concergie gave me two partially used scratchcards for free. It worked fine, but in the room or lounge would have been better.
As gold got exec lounge and exec floor. On weekend night, could opt for breakfast downstairs. English BF, but no salmon like the had in the lounge.
Small room, location so-so, rate so-so, not all too bad treatment. An OK stay.

BUT: My brother hates it now, since he had to go down three times until they got his key card right.

bump. since some of us are heading over this weekend for the london do & staying here, thought i'd get an update on the renovations. anyone stayed here RECENTLY? comments?

also (i think the answer is no) - do they have a health club, or will i be doing my walking outside instead of on the treadmill? (not averse to walking outside but my fragile Calif body isn't used to Nov London weather http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif).

------------------
Sharon

Check the Pizza and Pasta restaurant BEHIND the Green Park Hilton on a very narrow street. Had two wonderful meals there. Do not know the proper street name, sorry.

This was in a July 2003. Did not stay at the Hilton Green Park that time. Had to stay at Sheraton Green Park, due to prior business plans. Decent place, just do not get forced to take one of their NON air conditioned rooms. Talk about hot!! Plus noise from external reovation work that went on seven days a week, starting at 6:45 am.

[This message has been edited by Brandy (edited 11-10-2003).]

brandy, does that mean you stayed recently? what was it like post-renovation?

------------------
Sharon

A bump now that we are post-London Doo:

Did anyone stay here? SkiAdock?

Can anyone give an update on the status of the renovations?

Thanks! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Nobody stayed at the Hilton GP??? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

Full report/update here:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum57/HTML/009154.html

------------------
Sharon

I did a search but didn't get definitive answers:

* Does the GP Hilton actually have a health club, and if not, are there arrangements with any health clubs in the area (and free or charge)?

* If you've booked a single Hilton guestroom (which I understand is a single bed), will they upgrade you to a double bed if you're a Gold?

* Someone mentioned previously there's a Kinko's nearby that offers cheap internet access (I don't have wi-fi so I can't use that open zone mentioned by another poster). Does anyone have details on the Kinko's?

BTW - this hotel was showing high rates - except for 1, which I've just booked for the London Do. Right now the Hilton Saver BB rate is 70.50GPB, includes breakfast AND tax. 2-day cancel policy. Single guestroom.

Given it's location for what we're doing for the London Do & w/ the exchange rate in gen, this is a pretty good rate. And it's not even a pre-paid one either.

Cheers. Sharon

Sharon,

I've stayed there a couple of times. Great location, lousy hotel. Not sure of the difference in rates, but London Paddington is a much better hotel.

Danville 1K

i) the green park does not really have any health club (a while back they did have a small room with a treadmill at one point, but even that closed up i believe). not sure about access to another facility nearby.

ii) i often book a single room and am almost always upgraded. but, even as a goldmember with a good rapport with the staff, on one occasion i was stuck in the small room because the hotel was at full capacity.

iii) there is a kinko's right around the corner from the hotel (on curzon st., i believe).

iv) 70 GBP is an outstanding rate for london, especially in that location.

v) i'm not familiar with the paddington, but compared to the hilton hyde park and hilton mews, the green park is rungs above.

finally, in case you didn't see it, this thread might be of interest :
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=345727

Sharon,

I've stayed there a couple of times. Great location, lousy hotel. Not sure of the difference in rates, but London Paddington is a much better hotel.

Danville 1K
Not sure how this reply addresses ANY of the three very specific questions asked by the OP. :confused:

In case you didn't realize it, there are already dozens (if not hundreds) of threads on the London Hilton/HHonors hotels in this forum. The Green Park, the Paddington and all the other dozen or so hotels are covered in those threads. I believe the OP was asking specific questions on a specific hotel rather than attempting to start London Hilton thread # 69,578. :D

The Hilton is about a 15 minute walk to Trafalgar Square. I was there in May and I didn't find a gym anywhere. The rooms can be smallish. I'd suggest that you call the hotel ahead of time and see if they have indeed upgraded you to a room with a double bed.

Not sure how this reply addresses ANY of the three very specific questions asked by the OP. :confused:


Yikes, that's a bit harsh, Kathy. Danville 1k is one of our nicest FTers. I've benefited from his generosity. He doesn't know that Ski has stayed at the Green Park before and is simply giving his perspective. I know what I'm getting into at the Green Park, and yet I had a horrid stay this summer. If I were staying at a hotel that has wildly varying reactions, and i didn't know it, I'd be happy someone threw a caution flag.

Ski, another poster above is correct that the Kinkos is on Curzon. When you leave the hotel, turn left. Go one half block to Curzon. Turn right. Kinkos is on the left, beyond the Washington Hotel. It is open 7/24 and has great rates.

Actually I'm w/ Kathy on this one (and she did put a :D in her response). I was asking specific questions that I wanted answers to, and mentioned I'd already booked GPH because of the rate/proximity to London Do stuff.

So Danville's answer wasn't helpful in terms of my questions. I do, however, appreciate Danville suggesting another hotel based on his experience, but the others are much more expensive or out of the way & this will be the one I'm staying at.

Thanks for the details on the Kinko's sandiego1k. I thought I remembered you'd been there before.

I'll just assume that if I want to do a workout it will have to be outside, and bring along some warm clothes. I don't think the 2-minute walk to Ye Olde Grapes to hoist a few will count as a work-out ;) .

I'll check w/ hotel re: upgrade to a double bed before going over & hope for the best.

Cheers. Sharon

I'm putting this into Green Park vs other. Renovation done.

No health club. Have to go to Park Lane where they're schmucks about allowing access. If they're feeling good, 10quid vs 20 - nothing for gold or diamond & i had front desk of gph call & beg on my behalf. So even park lane offers a good rate they're off my list - think about that - it was such a minor thing to allow - jerks. btw - i was trying to access at 3:00pm - not high time.

on the down side - unless you're doing wi-fi - 15quid for hi-speed internet - i don't think so! so am about 4 blocks down the street at kinko's. it's on curzon about 2 blocks past washington hotel on the left side. not a big sign. keep going round the curve to find the place. btw- it's 3.50quid/hour - not 1 as reported earlier.

cheers. sharon

I have stayed at most of the Hiltons in central London and none of them has a really good gym. The Langham Hilton is by far my favourite and has a reasonable gym, small pool, steam room, sauna and spa. You can pay a guest membership if you are not staying in the hotel which is 25 GBP.

Personally I would run around Hyde Park for my exercise. It is free and gets you outdoors.

The Metropole has a tiny gym which is hardly worth the effort.

I have been upgraded as Gold on the two occasions I stayed at Green Park. Although the room was very odd indeed (a small suite with a massive bed which I nearly tripped over when I opened the door). It also had a very theatrical dressing room and a minging bathroom with yellow marks all over the tub.

The restaurant food is vile but the staff are very friendly - its a great location and good value.

Cowboy

Stayed at the Green Park Hilton (still wish I was there; had to switch to Kensington when stay was extended & rate changed).

I was able to get Room 115 (which can access BTOpenZone from what ChrisAtlanta says). Room small (as they all are), but king-size bed (very comfy; lots of big soft pillows) & renovated room. All the renovations are done except for an elevator I believe. Bathroom ok size (in contrast to what I have at Kensington Hilton). Fresh fruit & water in my room upon arrival for Gold.

There is no health club (bummer). They called Park Lane Hilton & tried to get them to let me in for free, but no dice. They had warned me PLH is a bit hard-core & doesn't even let Diamonds for free. The best PLH would do is lower their rate from 20 to 10GPB. I decided to walk in the park since the weather wasn't too bad (if it had been colder, no dice for this California gal).

The Kinko's is on Curzon, but it's about 2 blocks past the Washington Hotel around the curve on the left side & not readily identifiable until you get close to it. Wanted to clarify this since everyone says around the corner & some of us took that literally. Fee is 3.20GPB/hour, but they charge by the minute & you don't have to do pre-paid like you do at some of the other inet connections.

There is both a Marks & Spencer (on Picadilly) & a Tessco (on Curzon) if you want to buy bottled water or soda etc. Shepard's Market is literally around the corner & has some restaurants - and of course YeGrapes pub.

Housekeeping called me the first aft when I was sleeping to say we noticed you had the do not disturb sign on your door & we hate to bother you, but would you like your room cleaned? Grrr - do not disturb means don't disturb - slip a note under the door like Marriott does.

The staff was quite friendly & helpful. I didn't eat at the restaurant (my room includes bkfst, but I've never made it to one when attending a do), but did have a sparkling water in the bar which looked nice.

Cheers. Sharon

I despise this hotel, yet tried it again a year or so ago. Since it was still warm, the room was uncomfortable, and of course the room was tiny. Although it was renovated, which was nice, somehow not letting the windows open fully seemed pretty unfriendly in terms of improving the creature comforts to this Non-Air-Conditioned hotel. In my room, I got about a 4" opening, not exactly ventilation. They brought me a fan when I complained. Good thing I was on the £70 rate.

No breakfast, no elite recognition at all. And I, too, had trouble with the cleaning staff walking in on us, around 9:30am, with the Do Not Disturb sign still on the door.

Splendid property, this. I have no idea why Hilton keeps their name on it.

Obviously you had a bad experience SST, but I've been there 2x & not really that many complaints other than housekeeping calling & some of the folk staying there slamming their doors. I'd certainly stay there again if I could get a decent rate; great location.

When I checked in room 115 wasn't quite ready cuz other person had checked out late, but hotel staff brought me bottled water & a newspaper to read for the 30 minutes I was in the lobby. And I appreciated them going to bat for me (even though it didn't work) w/ PLH health club.

Cheers. Sharon

Sharon:

I can't fathom why, without a lounge, this property doesn't just comp breakfast to Diamond members! That would change my mind in some respects. But refusal to upgrade your room, provide breakfast or a lounge, or anything other than small, substandard rooms makes this a bad bet for somebody like me at the Diamond level.

The Trafalgar, Kensington, Olympia, Islington, and Langham all give you breakfast, no hassle. I haven't tried the Metropole or Waldorf yet, but either sounds better. The Mews is always too much fric for me, but the same manager handles this and the Green Park, so I'm not too eager to try it. The Hyde Park, like Green Park, has a terrible reputation, so I've always gone out to Kensington, which is satisfactory. Looking forward to trying the new Euston location. But Green Park in the summer is *definitely* out (ask anyone who's been there when it's hot), and for my money, the Park Lane and SPG is much better for an older property in Mayfair. So is the I-C. And the I-C is regularly bookable via PriceLine, if you don't need the stay credit.

Green Park could remedy this, as I say, by a breakfast and at least TRYING to upgrade your room (if you've got some status with Hilton) but if you ask, you're doomed. It's as if they don't want to hear it, and they're not a Hilton property. Again, how Hilton tolerates this is beyond me. It's either a Hilton property and compliant with Hhonors, or it's not...

SST writes: The Trafalgar, Kensington, Olympia, Islington, and Langham all give you breakfast, no hassle. I haven't tried the Metropole or Waldorf yet, but either sounds better.

SST...FYI, Metropole allows Golds and Diamonds use of their fine Executive Lounge with complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails and snacks (which with the price of food and booze in London, can save you a pretty penny right there!). Rather nice lounge, IMHO. You can check-in there as well if you're a Gold or Diamond, bypassing any lines downstairs.

We're just Golds but always get great upgrades at the Metropole. With just a small and friendly mooch, we lowly Golds even got a great Suite upgrade (ftp://members.aol.com/premexfiles/hilLONmetro243.jpg) not too long ago. They really fulfill their HHonors responsibilities, in my many experiences. It's a big impersonal business hotel, but the location is fine with easy tube access to everything. You can walk to it from Heathrow Express at Paddington if you just have carry-on.

And I find it's rates are almost always less than Green Park or even Mews most of the time! Probably due to their huge size that they seem to have more rooms to sell/discount. Especially on those Leisure Break deals that include dinner the first night of your stay and breakfast in the restaurant every day of your stay, in the 85 to 99 GBP range.

And no half-sized rooms for singles at this one. Nice sized rooms for all.

But you miss out on the charm and character of a small old hotel, if that's important to your experience. We're big fans of the Mews and Green Park for that reason. There is something about their smallness that adds charm to the stay experience. But I find it increasingly hard to justify staying at those with such benefits and opportunities (often at lower prices) at the Metropole. So we stay there most of the time. And it really is soooooo nice on arrival and departure day to be so close to Paddington Station and the Heathrow Express too.

SST, I switched to Kensington from Green Park & was NOT impressed (see my write-up on the KH thread). If I can get a comparable rate, Green Park will always win (even w/o bkfst) - which I did in neither place (my room rate at GP included bkfst). You mentioned you hadn't been there in a year or so; might want to try it again. But if not, no worries - obviously there are others on your list you can stay at.

BTW - my rate for GPH was 70GPB which included VAT AND Bkfst. My rate at KH was 69pre-paid & did not include VAT OR Bkfst (although obviously I could have gotten something at the exec lounge, which I thought was rather ho-hum). I'm not a fan of KH & would probably only stay there again if it had the cheapest rate of the various Hiltons. Premex, Metropole was a lot higher on this trip or I might have tried that.

Cheers. Sharon

There's a review in the London Tiimes on line of the latest metamorphosis of this hotel. Has anyone stayed there since it's been redecorated? I imagine that they had to keep all those funny old stairs in the rooms. How is the new restaurant and bar?

I have found that only the Deluxe rooms are stylish -- the other rooms have an IKEA feel to them with lots of faux blonde woods. However, for me, rooms were comfortable (no AC, just portable fan units in, at least, all the rooms I have been in so in sweltering summer heat like this year it is torture) and I like the location.

The restaurant and bar are fairly non-descript especially considering some fantasticly designed restaurants in London.

Portable fan units in a Hilton?! :eek:

I must say, I am very surprised!

The Green Park is a tragedy if you're staying there when London heats up to the 80s or more. A very uncomfortable stay. Also, at least two years ago they weren't giving Diamonds any recognition other than a questionable upgrade to one of the renovated rooms (about 1/4 were done at that time). You'll find plenty of threads here on it. I won't stay there again, unless it were really, really on an attractive rate.

I have stayed here several times. The best upgrade I got was when I was HH Silver from a single guest room to a Deluxe room. As a Gold, I have never been upgraded to a Deluxe room......

We will be in London in a couple of weeks staying at the Hilton Green Park. We will be arriving via Gatwick Express at Victoria Station. How difficult is it to take the underground from Victoria Station to Green Park with each of us having a medium sized suitcase? I would appreciate any information on the cost of a taxi for 2 with 2 suitcases and 2 carryons from Victoria Station to the Hilton Green Park. We arrive midmorning on a weekday if this makes a difference and will be slightly jet lagged from the flight from Texas. Thanks in advance for any advice or tips. Texas Traveler

Green Park Hilton is in Half Moon Street, about 5-10 minutes walk from Green Park underground station. But if you have baggage and are a bit jetlagged, get a cab. It's not far, only a few minutes (after all it's only one stop on the Underground), so will not be expensive. There are normally plenty of cabs at Victoria.

With bags it is quite a hike down to the Underground platform and up again. It is much deeper than any transit system you may have encountered in the US.

After checking in get a Travelcard at Green Park station and enjoy London by bus and Underground. Once you are unencumbered it's the best way to go.

For the taxi, probably about £5 +10% tip. No charge for second passenger.

WHM, Thanks for the advice. It sounds like a taxi will be the way to go. I had found some info on the Green Park tube stop and it sounds like there are no escalators there - just stairs. That would be pretty inconvenient with suitcases even if they are on rollers. We plan to use the underground and bus for our touring while we are there and have purchased a 7 day pass online for zones 1 and 2. Looking forward to our first trip to England!!

Hi folks

There are certainly escalators, plenty of them, at Green Park (otherwise half the passengers would emerge with heart attacks !), except that the final ascent from the ticketing level to the street is stairs only, possibly what the material you have seen refers to. But they are still all a nuisance with your volume of baggage. The Piccadilly is 60 feet below ground, the Victoria (your one in this case) is 80 feet below, and the Jubilee is 100 feet below. If you are staying nearby you will get used to all of these !

I second the recommendation for the taxi: further, since your companion(s) will want to try out the black cabs at some point, this is certainly one of the cheap fares you could take--- and the route from Victoria to Mayfair is interesting, too.

Any time I can avoid schlepping luggage up 10-15 stairs, and be dropped with the luggage door-to-door for a bill of less than £10, I'm happy. But the tube and the buses are certainly the way to get around for your stay; Green Park is a great location for using them, getting yourself a day travelcard each morning (after the peak fare period); have a good time. And try to insist on the renovated rooms at the Green Park, and pray that the temperature stays reasonable---- there's no A/C, and the windows don't all open. Let us know how it goes, too. A number of us have had crummy experiences at the hotel, but it's so well located, it's unfortunate to avoid it.

Taxi is definitely the way to go, but in my experience, there's usually a long line. Taxi's moved pretty quickly, so in the worst case scenario, you might be hanging around for 15 minutes in a "queue." Some taxis accept credit cards--some, but no all--I found it's generally better to carry cash. When I was there towards the end of last year, there was a rather enterprising young gentleman providing international currency exchange services :) He charged $30 for ten British pounds. I was surprised at the number of people that couldn't figure out that it wasn't a good deal. He did admit to people that he was 'making a small profit.' He told me that he cleared between two to three hundred pounds a day. You get a better dealing exchanging money at the airport!

Thanks again to everyone for the consensus on a taxi as the best way to get from Victoria Station to Hilton Green Park. SST, we'll follow your advice and try to get a newly renovated room. If I can find an email address for the hotel I will email our request ahead of time. That has worked when we were in Hawaii at the HWV. I had thought that all of the Hilton Green Park rooms had AC (maybe not up to our Texas AC standards but still cool air!) but hopefully it won't be too warm there in a few weeks.

Now another question for those of you who have been to London before. When we leave the Hilton Green Park we will be taking the train from Paddington Station to Bath. Would the cost for a taxi to Paddington Station be fairly reasonable or outrageous? It's hard to tell just by looking on a may how far this distance is. However, it seems like it would be quite a nuisance to try to lug suitcases on a bus or the underground. Again, any advice or tips are appreciated.

14 days to go until we leave!!

Hello again.

And taxi again ! Paddington is not that far from the GP Hilton, a bit further than Victoria but on the right side of town. About £10 or so. If I was walking, unencumbered, it would take me about 45 minutes.

Don't worry too much about the room AC, we are currently having the coldest and wettest May for a long time. I hope you have great weather when you are here, but just to give an idea, in our office we have turned the central heating furnace back on.

Did you mention Hawaii ? You did. Now where's that Envy icon ?

. I had thought that all of the Hilton Green Park rooms had AC (maybe not up to our Texas AC standards but still cool air!) but hopefully it won't be too warm there in a few weeks.

Now another question for those of you who have been to London before. When we leave the Hilton Green Park we will be taking the train from Paddington Station to Bath. Would the cost for a taxi to Paddington Station be fairly reasonable or outrageous? It's hard to tell just by looking on a may how far this distance is. However, it seems like it would be quite a nuisance to try to lug suitcases on a bus or the underground. Again, any advice or tips are appreciated.

14 days to go until we leave!!

No, the Green Park Hilton rooms do NOT all have a/c. In fact, I don't think ANY of the rooms have a/c. If it's not hot, no problem. If it gets REAL HOT, then we found that the room windows only open about 4 inches. Ugh. One evening was absolutely intolerable. We moved to the Sheraton Park Lane and haven't been back to the GP. I later got given 20k Hilton points, after about three letters to Hilton HQ. There was also no elite recognition for a Diamond, which was irritating. But YMMV, as they say.

And do take a cab to Paddington, too. I agree: about 9-10 pounds. Well worth it, for the same reasons. It's hell trying to get suitcases on the bus, and while dragging suitcases DOWN the stairs at Green Park is certainly within this cheapskate's M.O., you have to make a transfer on the tube to get to Paddington, and that's just too much logistics. The $16-18 is well spent, especially since you're unlikely to want to spend the corresponding unreasonable sum that TfL will separate from you for two single tube tix. My guess is you're out $5 in difference for the convenience of door-to-door again (note that it's 3 pounds for the cash fare for one single tube journey. Disgraceful. If there's three of you, a cab is cheaper.)

Again, have a great trip to one of the most wonderful travel destinations in the world! (Regrettably, one of the most expensive, too. )

No, the Green Park Hilton rooms do NOT all have a/c. In fact, I don't think ANY of the rooms have a/c. If it's not hot, no problem. If it gets REAL HOT, then we found that the room windows only open about 4 inches. Ugh. One evening was absolutely intolerable. We moved to the Sheraton Park Lane and haven't been back to the GP. I later got given 20k Hilton points, after about three letters to Hilton HQ. There was also no elite recognition for a Diamond, which was irritating. But YMMV, as they say.



Hilton Green Park has some portable AC units they can bring to the rooms, but if you are in need of U.S.-style AC, don't stay there in hot weather.

And my experience is the opposite on Diamond recognition. Upgrade or free breakfast (even if not in the rate).

Just booked a reward stay for Saturday. We plan to see Alegria at the Royal Albert Hall. Can we walk as in a short walk not a marathon?

I've walked it, but depending on the weather and your time schedule, I'd probably spring for a few quid for a cab.

It's about a 2 mile walk, so count on about 30-45 minutes depending on how fast you walk. Fairly straight shot down Piccadilly continuing onto Knightsbridge and Kensington Road. There's a bus that runs from Green Park and stops right in front of the Hall. I think it's Bus 9, but I'm not sure.

It's about a 2 mile walk, so count on about 30-45 minutes depending on how fast you walk. Fairly straight shot down Piccadilly continuing onto Knightsbridge and Kensington Road. There's a bus that runs from Green Park and stops right in front of the Hall. I think it's Bus 9, but I'm not sure.

stanj is right, it is no 9. Which is also one of two 'heritage' routes, which means that it has London's last few Routemasters (http://www.routemaster.org.uk/) running on it. Well worth a trip to try some history, but be careful of Ken's latest pricing... I think that if you don't have an Oyster card it could cost £2 for a 2 mile journey. :(

Don't count on the 9 being a Routemaster :( . It operates as a RM to a limited timetable, and whenever I've taken a 9 recently, it's been the one-person-operated service. From TfL: 'Heritage Routemasters will run every 15 minutes, every day between about 09:30 and 18:30'.

Having said that, the bus is the interesting way to go: 9 from Piccadilly; 9, 10 or 52 from Hyde Park Corner after a short walk (through Green Park) from Piccadilly.

More info on the Heritage 9:
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/buses/ini-heritage-buses.asp

If you're planning more journeys than this, it probably is worth getting an Oystercard to benefit from cheaper fares (make that less expensive ...).

Oystercard: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/fares-tickets/2007/fare-finder/

News item yesterday on 10,000,000th Oystercard: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/press-centre/press-releases/press-releases-content.asp?prID=1037

And if the weather is nice, forget the bus and walk. You'll pass the Duke of Wellington's house, and with just a bit of curiosity you could walk past Harrods, the Museum of Natural History (a spectacular building, even though the museum is a disappointment), and the Victoria & Albert. It's a really nice walk on a nice day, plan to take a couple hours and a cup of coffee along the way and you won't regret it - a great feel for London, for free!

Thanks for the replies. We did walk to the Hall and took a cab back. Stopped for dinner about halfway there. We didn't get into London as early as we expected so we didn't have time to do more sightseeing. The weather was mild. The only time it rained was when we were inside watching the show.

Been a full year with no update on Green Park thread! Any developments of note? Still recommended?

Been a full year with no update on Green Park thread! Any developments of note? Still recommended?

OK, another year. Anyone stayed at Green Park recently?

I stayed at the Hilton Green Park twice this year: once in January and then again in June.

The January stay was in a single room I booked a January Sale rate of GBP54.50 a night plus tax. The room was pleasant enough except for a very strong stench of raw sewage that blanketed not only the hotel but an entire block of Mayfair. I'm guessing the sewage system in that part of the city is really old and needs repair. The hotel staff apologized, saying it was external to the hotel and beyond their control. I was there three days. The odor lasted for only one day.

The June stay was in a twin room (~01), which overlooked a leafy green tree in the courtyard. A very nice fruit and chocolate plate, along with a bottle of wine and welcome card were waiting for us in the room. The staff was fantastic, especially when they found out my uncle had passed away in London the day before.

On both occasions, everything in the room worked as it should, the restaurant served very nice breakfasts, and the bar staff at night was friendly. I'd happily stay there again but I think the rates are quite steep for what you get, but hey -- that's London!

I stayed at the Hilton Green Park twice this year: once in January and then again in June.

The January stay was in a single room I booked a January Sale rate of GBP54.50 a night plus tax. The room was pleasant enough except for a very strong stench of raw sewage that blanketed not only the hotel but an entire block of Mayfair. I'm guessing the sewage system in that part of the city is really old and needs repair. The hotel staff apologized, saying it was external to the hotel and beyond their control. I was there three days. The odor lasted for only one day.

The June stay was in a twin room (~01), which overlooked a leafy green tree in the courtyard. A very nice fruit and chocolate plate, along with a bottle of wine and welcome card were waiting for us in the room. The staff was fantastic, especially when they found out my uncle had passed away in London the day before.

On both occasions, everything in the room worked as it should, the restaurant served very nice breakfasts, and the bar staff at night was friendly. I'd happily stay there again but I think the rates are quite steep for what you get, but hey -- that's London!


THanks for the update.

I stayed in Green Park about 4 times this year. I travel to London a lot on business and have stayed also at Euston, Waldorf, Trafalgar, as well as Holiday Inns and some boutique hotels.
I really like Green Park and it is my preferred stay. If I could afford the Trafalgar, that would probably be my preferred stay.
Why Green Park- central location to where my meeting is. Pleasant walk through city (I usually walk down from Euston and enjoy walking around the city streets).
Hotel itself is close to Shepherds Market which has lovely atmosphere for restaurants and pubs.
There is a Tesco metro close by.
While it has a gym, I nip out and have a run around Green Park- I need to get more adventurous and got onto the next park as well to stretch my legs.
The room I have been in has always been comfortable, I am a Silver member but as a frequent customer, they have upgraded me on one occasion
The staff are very responsive. I always fill out customer feedback whereever I go and the Green park is the ONLY one that acknowledges it, regardless of good or bad feedback.
To put it in perspective, I am taking my family there in Dec. It would have been a small amount more to go to the Trafalgar BUT Green Park management have offered me an upgrade (as a frequent customer) and also guaranteed me adjoining rooms- I have young kids.
So it is the good service that keeps me coming back. I also love breakfast- always give me omelettes without a raised eyebrow and sometimes have the Irish Times- a real treat!
The Air con thing was no issue for me as it was never that hot when I was there. All in all, I keep going back and will make it my major stay hotel as long as I can afford it