Novotel London Excel vs Similar Hotels

Issues with room cleanliness and comfort reported.

Some issues with maintenance and cleanliness detracted from the overall experience.

Some reviews mentioned that rooms were small and uncomfortable with poor bedding.

Rooms are described as small with compact bathrooms, thin walls and privacy issues (frosted/glass shower doors, no lock), but beds are comfortable and decor/uniqueness are often praised.

Many reviews complain about unsanitary conditions and dirty rooms.

Cleanliness was mentioned negatively due to issues like unclean rooms and maintenance problems.

There were mentions of dirty rooms and issues with bedding.

Generally described as very clean in multiple reviews, though isolated incidents reported (overflowing bins, dirty public toilets) that lower the score slightly.

Convenient location close to local attractions and transport.

Consistently noted as excellent with proximity to attractions and transport.

The hotel is conveniently located near the Excel Centre, making it ideal for events.

Multiple positive mentions: excellent Docklands location, close to Royal Victoria DLR, good transport links to central London, nearby shopping and restaurants; river views are a highlight.

Guests mention friendly and helpful staff multiple times.

Numerous positive comments about helpful and friendly staff.

Guests praised the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, particularly Azzy and Claude.

Consistently praised: outstanding reception staff, friendly/helpful team, staff often went above and beyond — one of the hotel's strongest points.

Mixed reviews on food quality and breakfast service efficiency.

Breakfast options received positive remarks, contributing to a good experience.

Breakfast options received positive feedback for variety and quality.

Breakfast is commonly praised as very good, but some complaints about repetition, items running out, timing/capacity issues and limited vegetarian/vegan options.

Facilities available but some amenities like coffee in room need improvement.

Facilities like the pool were not available, impacting the overall availability of amenities.

Amenities like coffee pods and bathrobes were a pleasant surprise.

Rooftop bar and some facilities are well-liked, but guests note dull lighting, lack of shelving in bathrooms, limited parking and some operational/stocking issues in busy periods.

Breakfast deemed overpriced, affecting overall value perception.

Higher prices noted, but somewhat justified by location and other factors.

Guests felt they got good value for their budget.

Mixed signals: several guests find the price acceptable and the concept innovative, but small rooms, breakfast/service hiccups and noise issues temper perceived value.