Staying here with family four nights in April, and would appreciate any updated comments on facilities and amenities (traveling with older teenager). Thanks to an FT'er (forgot where I read it) I found out you get a fifth night free with a 4 night award. I extended my reservation on the front end to guarantee "red-eye" availability when we arrive in the morning, which should be useful.

I was surprised to hear the lounge is closed all day Friday and through the weekend until Sunday evening, when it reopens. I can understanding closing after breakfast, but I'm not sure I'd be happy staying here for business on a Thursday evening. The phone agent did say I would get a coupon for breakfast that morning, though.

Requested upgrade was noted but won't know until checkin.

The agent also said there's no shuttle or other LHR airport transportation and recommended the Piccadilly line (impractical with luggage and time consuming) or a taxi (expensive). I'm assuming Heathrow Express, then a taxi from Paddington, but other suggestions appreciated.

Also, planning a (long-promised) trip to the Harry Potter studio and understand there's a bus from central London not far from the hotel, which would be a better experience than train + shuttle. Any experiences there?