When I made the booking, the Expedia website stated that check-in was from 12:00 noon. Before travelling, I sent a message to the hotel advising that I expected to arrive at approximately 12:00 noon. The hotel replied, confirming that this would not be a problem.
I arrived at the hotel at approximately 12:15 pm on 11 August. I was then informed by the member of staff that I could not check in until 2:00 pm unless I paid an additional £20 for an early check-in.
I explained that Expedia stated check-in began at 12:00 noon and that I had also received written confirmation from the hotel that my arrival time was acceptable.
I waited for approximately 30 minutes, hoping the situation could be resolved. However, I became increasingly concerned that I was being asked to pay an additional charge despite both Expedia's advertised check-in time and the hotel's own written confirmation. Combined with what I considered to be an unprofessional atmosphere, I no longer felt comfortable staying at the property.
I therefore left the hotel, returned to Heathrow, and booked alternative accommodation at my own expense.