I stayed here with my wife from 25th to 27th August. The stay was at the Ambassador weekend rate. This weekend was simply superb. I have stayed here several times, and without doubt this was the best.

I had booked a King Classic, Canary Wharf View with Club Lounge Access. We were upgraded to One Bedroom Suite, on a corner on the 11th Floor, with views up the Thames to the Royal Observatory from one aspect, and over the O2 from the other.

Check-in at main reception was friendly and efficient. Of course we opted for the 4pm checkout. I was offered a drinks voucher or welcome points – went for the drinks but in fact received points as well. When redeeming the voucher later had no problem in getting a glass of Malbec for my wife, and a Spitfire for myself.

The suite was superb with large lounge and bedroom divides by envelope door, which we kept open, giving a very bright and airy ambience. The lounge had a large sofa, a table with seating for four, and a very comfortable armchair and footstool looking up the river. There was a desk in the link between the bedroom and bathroom. The only weakness on the suite was the somewhat small wardrobe. We had the turn down service, which I find a great touch.

The bathrooms here are always good, with separate bath and shower. My only niggle, as with all IHG hotels, is the bulk toiletries. I know that EU commission has proposed banning the individual mini plastic bottles, but I really don’t want to think about how the bottles may have been previously handled. And, of course, the UK is no longer in the EU!

As a birthday surprise a complimentary bottle of chilled Prosecco and gateau was delivered to the room, with some panache.

The club lounge exceeded expectations – it was my first time in the lounge here, and we used it for breakfast, afternoon tea, and early evening drinks and canapes. Yes, breakfast was slow on the first day, but Aayush did keep us informed, and apologise. Both he and Adil were excellent hosts. The evening drinks range was good, including wine, Prosecco and spirits. My wife was particularly pleased to find Disaronno on offer.

There was no problem in crediting the £15 credit to the minibar, and checkout was efficient. The bill was exactly as expected. I found all the hotel staff to be ultra-friendly.

I really think that this is one of the best value hotels in London (sometimes less expensive than some HIs or HIEXs. At the Ambassador weekend rate I was over the moon.