I'm a regular at this hotel - c. 75 nights per year. I know the staff well, and they treat me well. I love this place. They are very good with their upgrades: I usually book the cheapest room and get a King Studio. I am a smoker so this is particularly good as hotels with smoking rooms are rare in London these days.

Anyway, I booked on Monday for a 3 night stay, starting the same day. I emailed guest relations telling them to expect me (especially as I prefer a smoking room) and the reply said that my usual room was not available but I could have a smoking suite if I paid £50 per night extra.

Just seems a bit steep for a regular guest who is also a Spire member... I'm sure I read somewhere that the hotel has an 'obligation' (?) to upgrade to the best category of room on a complimentary basis regardless....

Anyway if anyone has any thoughts, I'd be interested to hear them.

Cheers

RB