You know what struck me first about the Novotel London Blackfriars? Walking up from the Southwark Street entrance, it actually feels modern without trying too hard – which is honestly refreshing in a city where half the hotels are either trying to be boutique-quirky or stubbornly traditional. The lobby’s got this clean, minimalist thing going on that somehow doesn’t feel cold, probably because there’s always a decent buzz of people coming and going.
The location is where this place really shines, though. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from Blackfriars station – and I’m talking about the overground AND the Underground, which is huge if you’re planning day trips or need to get to Heathrow without the drama. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize until they’re there: you’re also right on the South Bank walking path. I’d pop out the back entrance most mornings and boom – there’s the Thames, Borough Market is maybe a fifteen-minute stroll east, and if you head west you’ll hit the Tate Modern before you know it. The rooms themselves are what you’d expect from Novotel – clean, functional, decent beds that don’t leave you with a crick in your neck. Nothing fancy, but the air conditioning actually works (not always a given in London hotels, honestly) and the blackout curtains are proper thick, which you’ll appreciate if you’re dealing with jet lag or just like sleeping in.
One small thing that impressed me – the elevators are quick. Sounds silly, but when you’re on the 8th floor and rushing to catch a train, it matters. The staff at reception were genuinely helpful too, not just going through the motions. They pointed me toward a decent pub around the corner on Stamford Street that I never would’ve found otherwise. Now, it’s not perfect – the area can get a bit quiet at night (which some people love, others find a bit dead), and if you’re expecting some grand London hotel experience with afternoon tea and all that, this isn’t it. But if you want a solid base that won’t eat your entire budget and puts you right in the middle of everything that matters? It’s hard to beat. The 8.3 rating makes total sense – it does exactly what it promises without any nasty surprises.