Marriott Bonvoy hotels in London, UK
Jul 6, 2007, 10:21 am
#826
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Some place in this wonderful world (usually at 39,000 ft in seat 1C)
Programs: CO Gold Elite / NW Gold Elite
Posts: 13,747
Can you tell me what the LPR Rate is listed under? I was able to book a few rooms with it but the rate is listed as a MANAGEMENT APPROVED RATE which makes me think it might not be publicly available and I would be stamped with a rack room rate upon check in. Do you know if this is available to the public?
Jul 6, 2007, 10:26 am
#827
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Belper, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
Programs: Marriott Rewards Silver, Starwood Preferred Guest Plus, Hilton HHonors Gold
Posts: 967
According to the Marriott website, Marriott Maida Vale is the closest to Wembley Stadium. As per the previous post, whether or not you have a car dictates how convenient a Central London hotel is.
Jul 6, 2007, 12:52 pm
#828
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: CVG
Programs: DL 3MM, US 972k (AA 0.0k), Marriott Lifetime Gold, Hertz G, Nurburgring in 8:29
Posts: 2,183
GlennTheBaker- How'd you find that? Even went to each properties page and searched for Wembley but only the one that's 20 miles to the NNE even mentioned it.
Either way, I was assuming I could take the Subway from Gatwick to the hotel, and the hotel to the stadium. (plus or minus a few blocks of walking of course.) I'll look at the Tube map and see if that's even possible. Looks like the Maida Vale it is for the time being.
Either way, I was assuming I could take the Subway from Gatwick to the hotel, and the hotel to the stadium. (plus or minus a few blocks of walking of course.) I'll look at the Tube map and see if that's even possible. Looks like the Maida Vale it is for the time being.
Jul 6, 2007, 9:18 pm
#829
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: ORD, MKE, MDW
Programs: Marriott Lifetime Platinum, AAdvantage Gold, Air Canada Elite, Avis Pref Select, Hertz Gold,
Posts: 1,844
Either way, I was assuming I could take the Subway from Gatwick to the hotel, and the hotel to the stadium. (plus or minus a few blocks of walking of course.) I'll look at the Tube map and see if that's even possible. Looks like the Maida Vale it is for the time being.
If memory serves, the Jubilee line stops at Wembley....presumably close to the stadium. I don't recall if the Jubilee line stops by the Maida Vale Marriott. I don't think it does, but I could be wrong. In any event, Maida Vale would be the closest Marriott to Wembley, and connecting to the Jubilee line shouldn't be much of a problem. It might be a bit far to walk, but Swiss Cottage would probably be the nearest Jubilee line station to Maida Vale. (And how can you go wrong with a tube station named after a pub....which is still operating!!)
Last edited by cyberdad; Jul 6, 2007 at 9:26 pm
Jul 7, 2007, 9:06 am
#830
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Belper, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
Programs: Marriott Rewards Silver, Starwood Preferred Guest Plus, Hilton HHonors Gold
Posts: 967
I've just had a quick look at the tube map. The nearest station to Marriott Maida Vale is Kilburn Park on the Bakerloo line. Wembley Central is 6 stops up on the same line. The Wembley Stadium site suggests allowing a 15 minute walk from Wembley Central to the stadium.
Jul 7, 2007, 9:38 am
#831
Suspended
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Posts: 8,243
And getting from LGW to Kilburn Park station isn't impossible, but will take some time. You get the train from Gatwick into Victoria station, and from there you can get the underground to Oxford Circus and then on to Kilburn Park, or you could just get a cab from Victoria if you have a lot of bags to carry.
Jul 7, 2007, 4:11 pm
#832
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: CVG
Programs: DL 3MM, US 972k (AA 0.0k), Marriott Lifetime Gold, Hertz G, Nurburgring in 8:29
Posts: 2,183
I'd have one rolling Pelican (1650) case that's about 50 lbs'ish. Then a small back pack with two changes of clothes and a laptop satchel. I have another thread going in another forum that I'll use to figure out the best transportation.
Jul 21, 2007, 12:32 pm
#833
Join Date: May 2004
Posts: 915
Our Renaissance Chancery Court London Experience (Warning- Lengthy)
My intention is not to compare the Ren CC to other Marriott Hotels in London or to discuss the City's attractions (other than parenthetically) but rather to provide a journal of our eight-day stay (on points).
PLANNING:
This trip was booked on marriott.com at the end of August, 2006 for a stay commencing 7/12/07. (I know it that was ridiculously premature but one of our dependencies was the burning of 150,000 original Delta miles in order to claim two seats in BE (which we were able to do, albei we had to do so nearly 11 months out) and the timing of the flight determined the parameters of our hotel stay.
You might remember a thread sometime back having to do with the Ren CC, for an extraordinary period of time, requiring Stay Anytime points for Mondays and Wednesdays. This was true at the time we booked; so I had a six-day Standard Award and a two-day Stay Anytime award in order to "hold" our particulart block of days.
Between August and December I "tested" the site to see if, by any chance that the same stay could be scheduled as eight consecutive "standard" Days.
Lightening struck in late December, 2006. A "dry run" resulted into complete "standard" availability, I called the Plat Line which made the point adustment on the spot (and I retained the same reservation number.
SPECIAL REQUESTS:
I made three of them via an email I sent two weeks prior to arrival to the hotel's Guest Relations Department. I set a tone that was one of requesting some special favors as opposed to waving my status around (they know damn well I was a plat - it's on the reservation) and demanding them.
!. I told that this trip to London was our first and was a birthday giift to my wife so I'd be most appreciative of their assistance.
2. I told them we'd be arriving after an overnighter and would most likely be exhausted soe, we'd be arriving hours ahead of normal check-in time. Accordingly, I asked if we could be permitted to wait out the time in the Club Lounge.
3. I requested an upgrade if one was available.
I received an email back assuring me that they could accomodate the first requests and would do what they could when we arrived with regards to the third; that the front desk had been notified and they'd have someone to situate us upon arrival.
ARRIVAL:
Two exausted and somewhat bedraggled travelers arrived at the Ren CC at approximately 11:30 in the morning on Thursday, July 12, 2007. At the desk, after I announced my name, the front desk associate said, "Oh, yes - Mr. and Mrs. Rahmanbar; welcome. And If you'll please wait a minute we'll make you more comfortable."
She picked up her phone and said to someone, "You wanted to be informed of Mr. and Mrs. Rahmanbar's arrival." She turned to me, and with a big smile, she said, "...they're on their way."
Without prompting on my part the desk associate inquired as to my Plat Arrival Gift preference (took the points)
We were escorted to the Club Lounge (3rd floor) where it was explained to us that it had been closed for the morning in order to shampoo the carpet.
Apparently they started following the breakfast service, but a refrigerator and coffee urn had been moved into the elevator lobby. We were invited to partake of anything we wanted (which was cold water, which we wanted desperately). and escorted down to the bar where are escort told us that are room was still being readied. She said she'd check and let us know.
About thirty seconds later she returned and told us she was going to escort us to our room.
ACCOMODATIONS:
We wre booked into a medium-sized, king, non-smoking room (in accordance with my profile) on the club level. Not the very biggest but absolutely compatible with our needs. The bed was equipped with Revive beddng and the three "back" pillows were standard ones instead of the usual square decorative variety. Beyond the bed was a sitting area with a couch, coffee table, easy chair, desk and two desk chairs. The TV (CRT) was enclosed in the "traditional" armoire which also hosed a small safe. (Fine for passports and other paperwork, but nothing much bigger.) We had a courtyard biew which was fine with us, but judging by the club lounge, all windows facing the street are double-glazed and noise does not penetrate.
Closet was large (a light came on when the door was opened), and adequate and in addition to to two heavy robes it contained slippers, an umbrella, iron and ironing board and varous standard sized hangars.
There are three phones (one by the bed, one on the desk and one in the bathroom).
The bathroom, which contained a double sink/vanity met our needs. We would have liked a sperate shower but it wasn't a biggie with us. Toiletries are luxe (don't remember the name, but the wife preferred them very much over the standard Lather brand toiletries found in most Rens). Towels are thick and HUGE, well beyond what's provided at North American Marriott FSs and Rens. Nightly Room Refresh is standard in the CC and while there's no turndown (how do you turn down a comforter anyway?), any used towels are replaced, if minor starightening out is required it's provided, chocolates and small vials of incense (bath oils?) are left. Oh yeah, there's an ironed cloth placed on each side of the bed to prevent your bare feet from hitting the carpet when you awake.
Would we have liked that separate shower (and what goes with it, such as a bigger room)?
Certainly - but they told us that hotel truly was packed and we didn't doubt it for a minute.
Side Note-
I saw a thread was started regarding the practice of three days as being the standard for linen changes. I don't remember exactly how it came up, but I was talking to one of the front desk associates (when I went down to raid their bowl of Toberlone chocolates) and she asked me as to the differences I've seen in North American properities as compared with their's.
I mentioned the no-smoking rule and $250 chargeback for violating it. She told me that they too expected to go completely NS but in the meantime reserved a small number of rooms (5%, I think) as 'Smoking'. Their "fine" for smoking in a non-smoking room is 300 GBP which translate into something over $600!
I also told her about the "green room" program and three-days (other than new occupant) between linen changes and it blew her mind. She said "You mean to tell me they don't replace the linen every day? We couldn't possibly get away with that, not that we'd want to in the first place.!"
Astoundingly, not onlly do they replace sheets and pillow cases daily, but also the linen-like cover that encloses the comforter! (And like everything else, it's ironed - can you believe that? Added: Their linen is of higher quality than I've experienced in NA Marriott/Ren FS hotels.
CLUB LOUNGE:
Open every workday at 6:30 and weekend day at 7:00. Breakfast is "elaborate" continental with cold cereals, juice, coffees (they'll even fix you a latte on request), breakfast meats, cheeses, breads, rolls, pastries, fresh fuits and juices and three kinds of smoked fish (the salmon is to die for).
During the day the coffee is brewing and cold soft drinks and waters and cookies are available as well as spirits and beers (for alcohol they charge - sorry).
Evening service is three hot and three cold canapes/hor'douveres(sp), and the desserts (which are decadent) are the product of what has to be a pastry master.
BTW, when you go in for a meal or dessert service you'll find that linen napkins and utensils are already on the tables.
THE WIFE'S BIRTHDAY:
My wife responds to a knock at the door ear; on our first night and there's a room-service attendant with an absolutely gorgeous birthday cake, a bowl with lit candles floating in it and a card from "the staff."
The wife was very touched (and I was a big hero).
LOCATION:
No question - Holborn's a business district, not a tourist mecca. OTOH there are many options as to dining. (BTW, grab some takeout and head for Lincoln's Inn Fields a charming little park, for an early-evening picnic. (There's a restaurant in the park as well - we didn't try it.)
Holborn Tube Station (Picadilly and Central Lines): It's not "right next door to the Ren CC - I'd say about a block and a half if you count walking through the hotel courtyard and entranceway plus a city block to the entrance (from the hotel walk to the corner of High Holborn and Kingsway, take a left and the entrance is a couple of doors down. We found the Piccadilly Line as being a very good one to use inasmuch as usually with a single connection you can bet where ou want to in any of the tourist areas. Adding: Six bus routes stop just outside the hotel's driveway on High Holborn.
Note: not to be construed as a knock at Marriott County Hall or any other Marriott property - in the real touristy areas the congestion is incredible. We had a hell of a time negotiating our way from the "Eye" and across Westminster Bridge to get to the Cabinet War Rooms. Frankly, when the day's over, we want to relax in as non-busy an ambiance as possible. I certainly agree that if you luck out and get the right room in County Hall the view is to die for.
ONE MINOR SNAFU:
The folder for the "Hopper" (Big Bus Company") indicates on its map that their nearest pickup point to the Ren CC is at the corner of Kingway and Aldwyn.
When we booked our tickets (via one of the concierges - official type; gold keys on his lapels and all), we showed him the map, pointed to the indicated pickup point (intersection of Kingsway and Aldwyn), and confirmed, ("So we just follow the map?")
He replied with an unqualifed "Yes.."
(Actually, it's a couple of blocks off the intersection, on Aldwyn just past the Waldorf Hilton.)
Turned out that this is the concierge I'd read about somewhere else. He'll answer any question, but his answer will reflect exactly what's been asked, like he's unable to contemplate an "out of the box" reply.
I cannot for a moment believe that he wasn't aware of the location of the pickup point. (Had I asked if there was a landmark/building/establishment to look out for he would have answered that and we wouldn't have been walikng around for an extra half-hour.)
CONCLUSION:
The Renaissance Chancery Court has become one of my favorite hotels and the wife has made me promise that we'll return. The building is beautiful and is maintained with pride and attention to details so as to assure it remains that way. The staff does not regard themselves as anything less than those being entrusted with the running of of a five-star establishment. (When I told someone I saw the CC as something beyond a JW, the response was that they see themselves at the top niche of London hotels. That's pretty heady company, beyond a JW and it's a fair subject for discussion.
I think what has come together in this property is the combining of a wonderful physical plant with a devoted staff who take pride in what they're doing - and it shows.
I understand that Mr. M. was in London a few months ago but didn't have the time to stop by. The people I talked to (which ranged from Front Desk Associates to Managers, to Room Attendants to Lounge Attendants, to Bellman), are eager to show him what they can do.
I hope they do -- we found them to be the consistently nicest, eager-to-please employees of the Marriott-franchised properties in which we have been guests..
PS - This hotel, which of course is a franchise is managed by Marriott International.
PLANNING:
This trip was booked on marriott.com at the end of August, 2006 for a stay commencing 7/12/07. (I know it that was ridiculously premature but one of our dependencies was the burning of 150,000 original Delta miles in order to claim two seats in BE (which we were able to do, albei we had to do so nearly 11 months out) and the timing of the flight determined the parameters of our hotel stay.
You might remember a thread sometime back having to do with the Ren CC, for an extraordinary period of time, requiring Stay Anytime points for Mondays and Wednesdays. This was true at the time we booked; so I had a six-day Standard Award and a two-day Stay Anytime award in order to "hold" our particulart block of days.
Between August and December I "tested" the site to see if, by any chance that the same stay could be scheduled as eight consecutive "standard" Days.
Lightening struck in late December, 2006. A "dry run" resulted into complete "standard" availability, I called the Plat Line which made the point adustment on the spot (and I retained the same reservation number.
SPECIAL REQUESTS:
I made three of them via an email I sent two weeks prior to arrival to the hotel's Guest Relations Department. I set a tone that was one of requesting some special favors as opposed to waving my status around (they know damn well I was a plat - it's on the reservation) and demanding them.
!. I told that this trip to London was our first and was a birthday giift to my wife so I'd be most appreciative of their assistance.
2. I told them we'd be arriving after an overnighter and would most likely be exhausted soe, we'd be arriving hours ahead of normal check-in time. Accordingly, I asked if we could be permitted to wait out the time in the Club Lounge.
3. I requested an upgrade if one was available.
I received an email back assuring me that they could accomodate the first requests and would do what they could when we arrived with regards to the third; that the front desk had been notified and they'd have someone to situate us upon arrival.
ARRIVAL:
Two exausted and somewhat bedraggled travelers arrived at the Ren CC at approximately 11:30 in the morning on Thursday, July 12, 2007. At the desk, after I announced my name, the front desk associate said, "Oh, yes - Mr. and Mrs. Rahmanbar; welcome. And If you'll please wait a minute we'll make you more comfortable."
She picked up her phone and said to someone, "You wanted to be informed of Mr. and Mrs. Rahmanbar's arrival." She turned to me, and with a big smile, she said, "...they're on their way."
Without prompting on my part the desk associate inquired as to my Plat Arrival Gift preference (took the points)
We were escorted to the Club Lounge (3rd floor) where it was explained to us that it had been closed for the morning in order to shampoo the carpet.
Apparently they started following the breakfast service, but a refrigerator and coffee urn had been moved into the elevator lobby. We were invited to partake of anything we wanted (which was cold water, which we wanted desperately). and escorted down to the bar where are escort told us that are room was still being readied. She said she'd check and let us know.
About thirty seconds later she returned and told us she was going to escort us to our room.
ACCOMODATIONS:
We wre booked into a medium-sized, king, non-smoking room (in accordance with my profile) on the club level. Not the very biggest but absolutely compatible with our needs. The bed was equipped with Revive beddng and the three "back" pillows were standard ones instead of the usual square decorative variety. Beyond the bed was a sitting area with a couch, coffee table, easy chair, desk and two desk chairs. The TV (CRT) was enclosed in the "traditional" armoire which also hosed a small safe. (Fine for passports and other paperwork, but nothing much bigger.) We had a courtyard biew which was fine with us, but judging by the club lounge, all windows facing the street are double-glazed and noise does not penetrate.
Closet was large (a light came on when the door was opened), and adequate and in addition to to two heavy robes it contained slippers, an umbrella, iron and ironing board and varous standard sized hangars.
There are three phones (one by the bed, one on the desk and one in the bathroom).
The bathroom, which contained a double sink/vanity met our needs. We would have liked a sperate shower but it wasn't a biggie with us. Toiletries are luxe (don't remember the name, but the wife preferred them very much over the standard Lather brand toiletries found in most Rens). Towels are thick and HUGE, well beyond what's provided at North American Marriott FSs and Rens. Nightly Room Refresh is standard in the CC and while there's no turndown (how do you turn down a comforter anyway?), any used towels are replaced, if minor starightening out is required it's provided, chocolates and small vials of incense (bath oils?) are left. Oh yeah, there's an ironed cloth placed on each side of the bed to prevent your bare feet from hitting the carpet when you awake.
Would we have liked that separate shower (and what goes with it, such as a bigger room)?
Certainly - but they told us that hotel truly was packed and we didn't doubt it for a minute.
Side Note-
I saw a thread was started regarding the practice of three days as being the standard for linen changes. I don't remember exactly how it came up, but I was talking to one of the front desk associates (when I went down to raid their bowl of Toberlone chocolates) and she asked me as to the differences I've seen in North American properities as compared with their's.
I mentioned the no-smoking rule and $250 chargeback for violating it. She told me that they too expected to go completely NS but in the meantime reserved a small number of rooms (5%, I think) as 'Smoking'. Their "fine" for smoking in a non-smoking room is 300 GBP which translate into something over $600!
I also told her about the "green room" program and three-days (other than new occupant) between linen changes and it blew her mind. She said "You mean to tell me they don't replace the linen every day? We couldn't possibly get away with that, not that we'd want to in the first place.!"
Astoundingly, not onlly do they replace sheets and pillow cases daily, but also the linen-like cover that encloses the comforter! (And like everything else, it's ironed - can you believe that? Added: Their linen is of higher quality than I've experienced in NA Marriott/Ren FS hotels.
CLUB LOUNGE:
Open every workday at 6:30 and weekend day at 7:00. Breakfast is "elaborate" continental with cold cereals, juice, coffees (they'll even fix you a latte on request), breakfast meats, cheeses, breads, rolls, pastries, fresh fuits and juices and three kinds of smoked fish (the salmon is to die for).
During the day the coffee is brewing and cold soft drinks and waters and cookies are available as well as spirits and beers (for alcohol they charge - sorry).
Evening service is three hot and three cold canapes/hor'douveres(sp), and the desserts (which are decadent) are the product of what has to be a pastry master.
BTW, when you go in for a meal or dessert service you'll find that linen napkins and utensils are already on the tables.
THE WIFE'S BIRTHDAY:
My wife responds to a knock at the door ear; on our first night and there's a room-service attendant with an absolutely gorgeous birthday cake, a bowl with lit candles floating in it and a card from "the staff."
The wife was very touched (and I was a big hero).
LOCATION:
No question - Holborn's a business district, not a tourist mecca. OTOH there are many options as to dining. (BTW, grab some takeout and head for Lincoln's Inn Fields a charming little park, for an early-evening picnic. (There's a restaurant in the park as well - we didn't try it.)
Holborn Tube Station (Picadilly and Central Lines): It's not "right next door to the Ren CC - I'd say about a block and a half if you count walking through the hotel courtyard and entranceway plus a city block to the entrance (from the hotel walk to the corner of High Holborn and Kingsway, take a left and the entrance is a couple of doors down. We found the Piccadilly Line as being a very good one to use inasmuch as usually with a single connection you can bet where ou want to in any of the tourist areas. Adding: Six bus routes stop just outside the hotel's driveway on High Holborn.
Note: not to be construed as a knock at Marriott County Hall or any other Marriott property - in the real touristy areas the congestion is incredible. We had a hell of a time negotiating our way from the "Eye" and across Westminster Bridge to get to the Cabinet War Rooms. Frankly, when the day's over, we want to relax in as non-busy an ambiance as possible. I certainly agree that if you luck out and get the right room in County Hall the view is to die for.
ONE MINOR SNAFU:
The folder for the "Hopper" (Big Bus Company") indicates on its map that their nearest pickup point to the Ren CC is at the corner of Kingway and Aldwyn.
When we booked our tickets (via one of the concierges - official type; gold keys on his lapels and all), we showed him the map, pointed to the indicated pickup point (intersection of Kingsway and Aldwyn), and confirmed, ("So we just follow the map?")
He replied with an unqualifed "Yes.."
(Actually, it's a couple of blocks off the intersection, on Aldwyn just past the Waldorf Hilton.)
Turned out that this is the concierge I'd read about somewhere else. He'll answer any question, but his answer will reflect exactly what's been asked, like he's unable to contemplate an "out of the box" reply.
I cannot for a moment believe that he wasn't aware of the location of the pickup point. (Had I asked if there was a landmark/building/establishment to look out for he would have answered that and we wouldn't have been walikng around for an extra half-hour.)
CONCLUSION:
The Renaissance Chancery Court has become one of my favorite hotels and the wife has made me promise that we'll return. The building is beautiful and is maintained with pride and attention to details so as to assure it remains that way. The staff does not regard themselves as anything less than those being entrusted with the running of of a five-star establishment. (When I told someone I saw the CC as something beyond a JW, the response was that they see themselves at the top niche of London hotels. That's pretty heady company, beyond a JW and it's a fair subject for discussion.
I think what has come together in this property is the combining of a wonderful physical plant with a devoted staff who take pride in what they're doing - and it shows.
I understand that Mr. M. was in London a few months ago but didn't have the time to stop by. The people I talked to (which ranged from Front Desk Associates to Managers, to Room Attendants to Lounge Attendants, to Bellman), are eager to show him what they can do.
I hope they do -- we found them to be the consistently nicest, eager-to-please employees of the Marriott-franchised properties in which we have been guests..
PS - This hotel, which of course is a franchise is managed by Marriott International.
Last edited by rahmanbar; Jul 22, 2007 at 6:10 am Reason: Correcting (way too many) typos -hope I don't miss any
Jul 21, 2007, 4:24 pm
#835
Join Date: May 2004
Programs: UA2mm,HGPdiamond, AAExPlat, MarriottGold
Posts: 335
I agree! I find the Chancery Court to be one of my favorite hotels in London. I like the fact that its close to the Tube (especially the Blue line for easy LHR access). Also, being a walker, the location offers a pleasant walk to the west end, past Covent Garden and an aray of shops. Quick bus rides to Southbank and Waterloo as well as Oxford shopping.
The hotel has ALWAYS made me feel welcome and I've enjoyed my stays.
(my former favorite hotel was the former Hyatt Carlton Tower- great location, excellent rooms, views, health club) but when Hyatt lost the management, I switched to the London Marriotts. Park Lane is nothing special from my experience. However, the Marble Arch Marriott has a very pleasant staff, espepcially in the Con. Lounge, but very small rooms!
Ren Chancery Court is the BEST!!!
The hotel has ALWAYS made me feel welcome and I've enjoyed my stays.
(my former favorite hotel was the former Hyatt Carlton Tower- great location, excellent rooms, views, health club) but when Hyatt lost the management, I switched to the London Marriotts. Park Lane is nothing special from my experience. However, the Marble Arch Marriott has a very pleasant staff, espepcially in the Con. Lounge, but very small rooms!
Ren Chancery Court is the BEST!!!
Jul 21, 2007, 5:18 pm
#836
Join Date: Apr 2005
Programs: AA Plat
Posts: 50
Thanks for the detailed post. I too agree that the Chancery Court cannot be beat...particularly for couples or single travelers. Location is absolutely workable. And they have excellent breakfast which was part of my deal by paying with Visa. Terrific hotel!
Jul 21, 2007, 7:26 pm
#837
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: ORD, MKE, MDW
Programs: Marriott Lifetime Platinum, AAdvantage Gold, Air Canada Elite, Avis Pref Select, Hertz Gold,
Posts: 1,844
Rahmanbar....
Great Post. "Spot on" accurate.
Grosvenor Square, for a variety of personal reasons, is the favorite of Mrs. Cyberdad and me, but CC is definitely a close second. A couple of notes that I'd add...
My daughter teaches about three blocks away from CC. She'd be the first to tell you that despite the "business district" location, there still is a distinct "local neighborhood feel" to the area, which may not be apparent at first. As you mentioned, there are a number of dining options nearby. On top of that, there are several pubs within a block or two that serve as popular local gathering places.
CC is also handy to at least one local attraction. You can walk to Covent Gardens in a matter of about 10-15 minutes. Dozens, if not hundreds, of dining, entertainment, and shopping venues in Covent Gardens and immediate vacinity.
Finally, another plus, IMHO, is the Sainsbury's "mini-supermarket" up the street. Great for picking up toiletry items, snacks, beverages, etc.
Glad you had a great trip....and here's wishing JohnB50 a safe, pleasant journey along with congratulations on you and your bride's 34th anniversary.
Great Post. "Spot on" accurate.
Grosvenor Square, for a variety of personal reasons, is the favorite of Mrs. Cyberdad and me, but CC is definitely a close second. A couple of notes that I'd add...
My daughter teaches about three blocks away from CC. She'd be the first to tell you that despite the "business district" location, there still is a distinct "local neighborhood feel" to the area, which may not be apparent at first. As you mentioned, there are a number of dining options nearby. On top of that, there are several pubs within a block or two that serve as popular local gathering places.
CC is also handy to at least one local attraction. You can walk to Covent Gardens in a matter of about 10-15 minutes. Dozens, if not hundreds, of dining, entertainment, and shopping venues in Covent Gardens and immediate vacinity.
Finally, another plus, IMHO, is the Sainsbury's "mini-supermarket" up the street. Great for picking up toiletry items, snacks, beverages, etc.
Glad you had a great trip....and here's wishing JohnB50 a safe, pleasant journey along with congratulations on you and your bride's 34th anniversary.
Jul 22, 2007, 10:17 am
#838
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Belper, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
Programs: Marriott Rewards Silver, Starwood Preferred Guest Plus, Hilton HHonors Gold
Posts: 967
I have a one-night stay coming up on 11 August. We had a meal for 2 at the Blueprint Cafe as a wedding gift so decided to stay at the Ren CC. I'm only a Silver so not expecting any special treatment but emailed Guest Relations and asked about the possibility of any upgrades. I got a lovely reply from a young lady called Jessie who said that the hotel was very busy that weekend but she'd put a note on my profile and see what she could do. The next time I logged into my MR account I see that my reservation has changed from a Quality Room to an Executive Room - a really nice touch. If the stay is as good as the communications I have had with the hotel staff, it should be excellent.
Thanks for the report.
Thanks for the report.
Jul 22, 2007, 4:50 pm
#840
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: USA
Programs: AA MARRIOTT Lifetime Plat Premier ; Marriott Vacation Club
Posts: 1,650
Nice review. The CC is indeed a very nice property.
... not to be construed as a knock at Marriott County Hall or any other Marriott property - in the real touristy areas the congestion is incredible. We had a hell of a time negotiating our way from the "Eye" and across Westminster Bridge to get to the Cabinet War Rooms. Frankly, when the day's over, we want to relax in as non-busy an ambiance as possible. . .
Agree completely. CH is a fine property. But we too got worn down navigating that damned bridge when it's jammed with tourists and vendors who take up space and slow the flow. It's by no means a deal breaker, but the more one travels, the more they notice "little things".
CC's location is actually very good, although until one gets more familiar with walking London you do feel a bit out in the boonies in terms of restaurants etc. ( and remember London is indeed a walking city ). It's a 15 minute walk to west end & the British Museum is very close. Or head out the doore & the Tube to venture further.
After you've been out and about walking London all day, the CC is a nice place to lay back and recollect your day.
Barry
... not to be construed as a knock at Marriott County Hall or any other Marriott property - in the real touristy areas the congestion is incredible. We had a hell of a time negotiating our way from the "Eye" and across Westminster Bridge to get to the Cabinet War Rooms. Frankly, when the day's over, we want to relax in as non-busy an ambiance as possible. . .
Agree completely. CH is a fine property. But we too got worn down navigating that damned bridge when it's jammed with tourists and vendors who take up space and slow the flow. It's by no means a deal breaker, but the more one travels, the more they notice "little things".
CC's location is actually very good, although until one gets more familiar with walking London you do feel a bit out in the boonies in terms of restaurants etc. ( and remember London is indeed a walking city ). It's a 15 minute walk to west end & the British Museum is very close. Or head out the doore & the Tube to venture further.
After you've been out and about walking London all day, the CC is a nice place to lay back and recollect your day.
Barry