Radisson Edwardian, London

A weekend in the capital was just what we needed. Unfortunately everywhere we wanted to stay was booked. We finally, and reluctantly, chose the new Radisson Edwardian in the Docklands. I say reluctantly because our belief was that it was miles out of town. So as well as extra time travelling, we presumed the tubes and taxi fares would be more expense.

As you have probably gathered by now, we were incorrect on most points. The tube was East India, which is still in zone two, so no extra cost there. Also East India was only four or five extra stops away from the normal stops, this only increased our travelling time by about eight or nine minutes.

On arrival we were amazed. For the price in the city we would have been staying in some two star hovel. The front entrance has fountains and overlooks the Millennium Dome. We were suitably impressed, and furthermore very happy with the choice (which was now ‘my’ choice, not ‘ours’).

The reception was very welcoming if a little ‘corporate’ and the staff were particularly friendly, much more than you normally get in a London hotel; and they were English!

Our room was a mini suite; again we were well suited. Behold the giant bed, great decor and all the mod cons. The bathroom was fantastic. A total wet room including a TV in the wall. To top it off, we overlooked the Dome. Oh yes, we were happy.

We decided to dine in the hotel that evening, again the right decision. Yes, it was a little hotel-y however the food was indicative of any top London restaurant. I can imagine dining here in the summer with the open plan windows and the fantastic views would be outstanding. Indeed, I can imagine not wanting to bother with the city and just to relax al fresco with a few drinks and soak in the scenery. Who needs London City?

Saturday morning, bright and breezy, we headed off to the magnificent spa for a Swedish massage. Both in the same room, we were pampered for an hour. The masseurs were as good as you get. Both of the ladies were lovely however, they both had grips like gorillas! By eleven thirty we were refreshed, content and ready to max out our credit cards. We did a good job; I can tell you.

Once back at the hotel we decided to relax our feet, have a drink and contemplate how we were going to pay our credit cards. The bar area is very contemporary and really cool, but not so stuffy that you feel uncomfortable in your casual gear. The staff were very friendly and knew their stuff. We had a few drinks whilst people watching; then had a few more. We were relaxed, and I have to say, felt very decadent, even though it was all so reasonably priced.

After getting ready we headed out to Nobu in the city for a meal. We missed the last tube home so got a cab. This I can say was the only thing wrong with staying slightly out of the centre, a £27.00 fare, compared to about £5.60 for a full day’s travel pass in zone one and two on the underground.

Whenever I stay in London from now on, I will always stay in this wonderful hotel. We both stay away a lot and never really expect good service or decadent surroundings when visiting the capital; however the Radisson Edwardian offers all that and much, much more.

If you travel to London from time to time, or indeed are just visiting and want all of the above, don’t bother with the city centre hotels. This hotel will really add to your visit and very probably cost a lot less.

My one tip would be visit the spa. It really added to our visit and if you get up early enough it will not affect your sight seeing or shopping time.

Review Summary

Atmosphere ♦♦♦
Food ♦♦♦♦♦
Service ♦♦♦♦♦
Value ♦♦♦♦

Contact Details

Radisson Edwardian
New Providence Wharf
5 Fairmont Avenue
Canary Wharf
London E14 9PQ

Tel: 020 7987 2050
Fax: 020 7987 8424
Email: resnpw@radisson.com
Website: radissonedwardian.co.uk