Hilton Hyde Park Review:
Stayed here recently and wanted to see which hotel was better, the Hilton Hyde Park or the Doubletree Hyde Park. No contest, go to the Doubletree.
This Hilton is unfortunately not up to the standard that almost all other London Hilton (or Hilton chain hotels are).
The location is very convenient for the tube station Queensway on the Central line. ^ (you come up out of the tube station and turn right and only need to go 10 steps to be at the front door to the Hilton.
The reception is not a reception but rather a small lobby area with two small desks placed on the left hand side as you enter the building. On the right is a small seating area. The restaurant and bar is down a few stairs and towards the back right hand side from the entrance. Elevators are straight in front of you and there are stairs that people can use to get to the bedroom floors as well. ^
The staff were fairly friendly but I wasn't really getting any feeling of welcome during check in I have to say which was a shame as the rest of the staff seem genuinely friendly and helpful.
We had booked a room on points and received a one category upgrade during check in.
The elevators are very old and slow, if you can, take the stairs as it will be quicker if you are on the first two floors with bedrooms and don't have much luggage.
The corridors are in very poor state and I was starting to get concerned about what the rooms would look like I have to admit.
Luckily the room, once we entered it, was okay, I think they were recently renovated and the room we received was quite large. The window presents a real security concern though as the original window didn't close properly and so anyone that could get to the back of the property and climb up the first floor roof could break in…there was a secondary window installed but it had no lock so although it blocked sound very well…it was a bit unnerving to go to sleep not knowing if we would have any visitors…
Another issue is the bathroom…it was bypassed for the renovation and looks like something you would find in a shared flat or student accommodation. Shame really. I have attached two pictures to show this but it doesn't really come out as much as you would see in person.
Everything was functional but just really outdated and in need of replacement or a damn good clean.
The bathroom did have a small opening window at least which is nice to get some fresh air in that room as well.
The bathroom was very small and only suitable for one person at a time.
Below is a picture of the rather poor towel rack heating element below the sink…too low and useless.
H HP Aunties Bathroom by
BA_pics, on Flickr
Below is the bathtub showing some rust and stains as well as mould on the tiles. At least there was lots of hot water and pressure.
H HP Bathtub by
BA_pics, on Flickr
We used the internet and it worked okay during our stay for two devices (we were told only two would be allowed).
Breakfast is very good here as others have posted and again the staff were very helpful and friendly. ^
The hotel entrance and hallways really need a refresh, the serious concern about the window needs addressing in that room and the bathroom really needs gutting and replacement.
Otherwise a reasonable hotel in general but not up to London Hilton standards unfortunately.
I would not recommend staying here personally due to the very, very good DT Hyde Park just down the block about 200m away. (see that thread for a review as well).
This place is convenient to get to and is less touristy than other locations so for those wanting to get a bit of distance from the rest of the tourists but still be very convenient, this is a possible choice.
There were several food places nearby and we ate at a small take away Thai restaurant around the corner about 400m from the hotel which was very good and inexpensive. ^
There is a nice coffee shop and Italian ice cream place right beside the hotel which was very popular and worth checking out if you like 'gelato' or a proper coffee.
There is no lounge and breakfast was free for diamonds and golds (full range).
We did not get any water in the room (except the large bottle that you have to pay for)…I couldn't be bothered to ask for any so not sure if they would normally provide any.
We did find bathrobes and slippers in the wardrobe which was nice. (and an ironing board, iron and safe if you needed one).
The room has air conditioning and worked quite well.
Hope this review is of use and interest.