Intercontinental Hotels London - The O2 By Ihg

This hotel is highly regarded for its direct access to the O2 Arena, making it an unparalleled choice for concert-goers and event attendees. Its prime location and comprehensive facilities also appeal to business travelers and couples seeking a luxurious and convenient stay. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional staff, pristine cleanliness, and comfortable accommodations as standout features. The stunning views of the Thames and Canary Wharf from many rooms and public areas further enhance the experience. To maximize your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for the best vistas, and be prepared for potentially high parking fees, which are a recurring point of feedback.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of impressive facilities designed for relaxation and convenience. Guests frequently praise the spa, which includes a pool, steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi, providing a welcome escape after a busy day. While the main pool temperature receives mixed feedback, the overall spa area is noted for its cleanliness and spaciousness. A well-equipped fitness center is also available for those wishing to maintain their workout routine. The hotel features several bars, including the popular Eighteen Sky Bar with its breathtaking panoramic views, and the Clipper Bar, though some guests note that lifts can be busy, leading to queues, especially after events. Free Wi-Fi is available, and guests appreciate the convenience of on-site coffee shops and delis.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be spacious, clean, and tastefully decorated, often boasting impressive views of the Thames, the O2 Arena, or Canary Wharf. The beds are consistently described as very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some guests found the pillows to be too soft. The bathrooms are well-appointed, featuring both a shower and a bath, along with quality toiletries. While most reviews indicate a quiet environment conducive to relaxation, some guests experienced minor issues such as air conditioning not being fully effective or occasional noise from neighboring rooms or ongoing construction. A few isolated comments mentioned minor cleanliness oversights like dust or stains in specific areas.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive widespread acclaim, particularly the breakfast buffet. Guests consistently praise the extensive variety of hot and cold selections, including fresh options like honeycomb and smoothies, all prepared to a high standard. The Market Brasserie is frequently mentioned for its excellent dinner quality and attentive service, while the Indian restaurant, Kinaara, also garners positive feedback for its delicious food and pleasant ambiance. Many guests highlight the convenience and quality of room service options. The bars within the hotel also offer a good selection of drinks and light bites, contributing positively to the overall culinary experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant draw, especially for those attending events at the O2 Arena, which offers direct access via a convenient covered walkway. This feature is highly valued for avoiding post-event crowds and ensuring a hassle-free return. The hotel is also within a short walking distance of the North Greenwich tube station, providing easy access to central London and other attractions. Proximity to the UberBoat dock and a large shopping center within the O2 complex further enhances its accessibility. While the location is ideal for events, some guests note it is a bit removed from the main tourist areas of central London. Parking is available on-site but is frequently cited as being very expensive.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, from the moment of arrival to departure. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient, though occasional queues can occur during peak times. Specific mentions include the proactive concierge service, responsive housekeeping, and the overall professional demeanor of the entire team. Many guests appreciate the hotel's use of a WhatsApp service for convenient communication and requests, further enhancing the personalized service experience.

Additional Information
A significant recurring theme in guest feedback pertains to the parking charges, which many find to be excessively high, often exceeding expectations and leading to frustration. Furthermore, there are numerous reports of issues with the deposit policy, with guests experiencing considerable delays or difficulties in receiving their refunds after check-out, sometimes requiring multiple follow-ups. Some guests have also noted ongoing construction work around the hotel, which occasionally impacts views or results in noise disturbances. While the hotel aims for a luxurious experience, these specific operational aspects, particularly the high parking fees and deposit refund delays, are frequently mentioned as areas of concern.