s!

Message: I am flying into Gatwick next month. I am trying to choose between the Hilton London Olympia or the Metropole. I want a nice room and easy access to the sights of London. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Brian in Atlanta

Stayed at the Olympia in 1998. We chose it because we had Hilton Honors points to use and it was the only one at which we could get 4 free nights. <BR> <BR>The hotel turned out pretty nice, with a comfortable room and nice bath. And after reading some of the horror stories on this forum regarding the nature of some of London's moderate-rate hotels, I think it's cleanliness and comfort was initially underappreciated (by us). <BR> <BR>It was a bit of a trip into the center of town, but there is a bus stop a block away and a tube stop a few blocks away (though it was cold in November). There are a few restaurants and such in the immediate vicinity. Next time, though, we'll probably stay more central.

s!

Thank you Brian.

Jayelle

I stayed at the Olympia Hilton a couple of years ago also. It is basically what I would consider a mid-range London hotel, both in terms of price and amenities. There are several London Hiltons that are top of the line in terms of luxury, but this is not one of them, so don't be disappointed. However, it is a comfortable hotel. As the previous poster mentioned, I also found it a bit out of the way for sightseeing. The nearest tube stop is probably a little less than 10 minutes walk.

s!

Thank you Jayelle. How long was your tube trip to center of town. I picked the hotel: <BR>1. for the frequent flyer miles. <BR>and <BR>2. for the price... about $110 US per night for a doubble double bedded room. Seems like a good deal in expensive London. What do you think?

Jayelle

I would say that the tube trip to the more central areas of the city was about 20 minutes or so, considering that it is necessary to change lines to reach the more touristy areas like Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, etc. One other thing to note about the tube stations. The hotel is actually closer to the Olympia tube station, but this station is not always open (I seem to recall that it wasn't open on Sunday when I was there). You'll need to check the schedule at the station for the hours. When Olympia is closed, you'll have to walk to the Kensington High Street station, which will take you around 10 minutes from the hotel. <BR>

s!

Jayelle: <BR>I read another posting which mentioned that the Olympia gets quite chilly. The Olympia visitor said she had to request a portable heater. Were you in London during winter months?... And if so, did you have a similar experience?