Rubens At The Palace

Location, location, location, and nothing else...

I travel overseas a few times a year. But, this was my first trip to London and I wanted to stay somewhere close to a major landmark. Other then being across the street from Buckingham Palace, this hotel was lacking. When we checked into the hotel the front desk staff informed us that they would gladly exchange money for us. I found out later that they meant they would gladly give me directions to the nearest Bureau of Change in order to change money. I asked the front desk staff on three different occasions to change money from US to Pounds Sterling and once from Pounds Sterling to Euros; each time I was directed to the nearest Bureau of Change. The Concierge was useless. None of the many people working this desk were able to direct us to any local spots including, decent restaurants, bars, spas, or anything else. Each time we were told that they were not sure and that we should look it up on-line. The only thing they were able to do was hail a cab. The rooms are small but, expected for European hotels. The rooms were clean and well kept by the maid staff. I would not stay here again and have already told a few friends planning on a London vacation that they should not stay here. This was a crappy hotel and the only thing going for it was that its’ location made my 3am walk home from the bars rather simple. Everyone in London knows where the Palace is located.

Traveler's tip

Stay somewhere else!

Nice Hotel!

We selected this hotel based on Location and others reviews. We were not disappointed. The room was quite small, however, was nicely decorated. The resturant, bar area was nice, and the nightly piano guy was fun and entertaining. Excellent location across from the Royal Mews, made for fun people watching. The Queen was in town and was having tea with the "commoners" so seeing the goofy dress/hats was entertaining. A block or so walking distance to Victoria station- it was excellent for navigating around town. The conceierge helped get us 4th row tickets to Wicked at the Apollo theater, as well as set up a day tour to Windsor castle, stonehenge and bath. The entire staff was very friendly and accomodating.....even gave us a coverter plug for our electronic items. I would definately stay here again, location and ammenities were great!!

London,s best location

Across the street from Buckingham Palace. Walking distance or a short cab ride to almost everything you would care to see. The price is worth the location. Saves time and aggravation. Surrounded by Pubs for low cost eating and drinking.

Traveler's tip on local attractions

Walking distance: Harrods, Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Sq, Changing of the Guard, St. James Park, Whitehall, Victoria Station.