Novotel London Excel

Novotel London Excel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Novotel London Excel, you immediately get that modern business hotel vibe — but in the best way possible. The lobby feels fresh and contemporary, with clean lines and plenty of natural light streaming through those floor-to-ceiling windows. What struck me right away was how efficiently everything runs here. Check-in was smooth, staff actually seemed happy to help, and honestly, the whole place just feels well-managed. It’s one of those four-star properties where you can tell they’ve thought through the details.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s the thing about staying in London‘s Docklands area — it’s not central, but it works brilliantly if you’re visiting Excel or just want something different from the usual tourist zones. The hotel sits right on Royal Victoria Dock, which means you get these lovely water views that most London hotels simply can’t offer. The DLR station is practically next door, so getting into central London takes about 20 minutes. I mean, you’re trading Covent Garden’s chaos for waterside peace, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need. Plus, there’s actual parking here — try finding that in Zone 1.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in faced the dock, and those views really do make a difference. It’s not massive, but everything feels purposeful — good desk space if you need to work, decent storage, and a bathroom that’s modern without trying too hard. The bed was properly comfortable, and you know what I appreciated? Blackout curtains that actually work. The air conditioning keeps things cool even during those unexpectedly warm London days, and the Wi-Fi never gave me trouble.

Dining & Amenities

Breakfast here is genuinely impressive — they’ve got this buffet setup that covers pretty much every dietary requirement you can think of. Full English if you want it, continental options, plus proper vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices that don’t feel like afterthoughts. The restaurant stays open for dinner too, serving decent modern European food, though honestly, I’d probably explore the area for evening meals. There’s a fitness center that’s well-equipped enough, and the bar area works well for a quiet drink while watching boats drift by on the dock.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets this place apart is how it balances business hotel efficiency with genuine comfort. The location might seem unconventional, but couples especially seem to love the waterside setting — there’s something quite romantic about those dock views, particularly in the evening. The staff consistently get things right without being overly formal, and the whole experience feels reliable in a way that’s actually quite refreshing. If you’re visiting Excel, obviously it’s perfect, but even if you’re just looking for a solid base that’s different from typical London hotels, this works really well.

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Novotel London Excel Accommodations

Reviews of Novotel London Excel

• Anna from Germany (9/10)

  Staff were excellent and I was able to check in early and combine my reservations to stay in the same room. Very good quality.

• Clare from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Location. Easy parking. Nice modern hotel.

• Lucy from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Very close to the Excel, room very clean, great staff

• Denise from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Clean and tidy room with all appropriate facilities

• Julie from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Location, right next door to ExCel
  The room was spacious & clean.
  We were pleasantly surprised by a fridge in room, complimentary toiletries & plenty of plugs/USB slots in appropriate places.
  Staff were friendly. We had previously arranged to drop our bags at reception before attending ExCel but the front desk agent checked and our room was ready, so we were able to check in, again the pleasant surprise.
  Breakfast was simple but adequate and the stations were all clean.
  I've stayed in more expensive hotels and been far less impressed. Really enjoyed our stay.

• Becky from United Kingdom (7/10)

  The staff were fabulous and helped with an earlier check on

• Tara from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Location

• Mandy from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Closeness to excellent london

• Jane from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Lovely hotel for the Excel. Clean and the staff were friendly and helpful.

• Christine from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Top quality for the price we paid.

Surroundings

Facilities