London's Hidden Gem: Great Northern Hotel - A Tribute Portfolio Escape
London's Hidden Gem: The Great Northern Hotel - A Tribute Portfolio Escape - My Honest-to-Goodness, Messy Review!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea (and maybe a bit of Earl Grey on the carpet, whoops!) on the Great Northern Hotel. This isn’t your slick, perfectly-polished hotel review. This is real life, with all the spills, thrills, and occasional existential crises that come with a stay in a swanky London hotel. So grab a cuppa, because you're in for a ride.
First Impressions & Pre-Arrival Chaos (and a tiny accessibility rant)
Finding the Great Northern is, well, easy peasy. Right inside King's Cross station, you couldn't miss it, except, you know… if you're me, and habitually wander the wrong way. The iconic facade is gorgeous – proper Victorian elegance, promising a haven from the London bustle. Let's be honest, from those initial looks, I had high hopes.
Now, about Accessibility: I poked around, and the hotel says it's accessible. Elevators? Yep. But listen, I'm not in a wheelchair myself but I believe them when I see them. And I didn't, on the ground, see anything like a proper ramp right on the streets. Be sure to check the specific details if you have mobility needs. This is a MAJOR point, and frankly, it's something I feel hotels are still getting wrong.
Check-In: Smooth Sailing (Mostly!)
The check-in was thankfully a breeze. (Thank god, after my directional mishaps.) Contactless check-in/out? Check! The staff were friendly, not robotically so, but actually friendly. They even cracked a smile when I fumbled with the key card (it's a classic me move, okay?).
The Room: A Room of My Own (and a Few Quirks)
I landed in a room. Wi-Fi? Free and blazing fast! (Praise be!) Air conditioning? Yup, and blessedly functioning, which is a godsend in a London heatwave. The room itself? Beautiful. Seriously. Think plush carpets, a comfy bed with extra-long bed (because I'm a lankey giraffe), a seating area perfect for sprawling with a book, and blackout curtains that actually do what they're supposed to–a miracle.
The small details that I noticed, that I'm a bit of a sucker for:
- The Mirror! - I had a perfect mirror. And I'm not exaggerating.
- The Bathroom, which was another highlight. Seriously, the bathrobes were like a hug in fabric form. Bathrobes? Yes, and they were fluffy. Slippers? Oh, the slippers!
- Coffee/tea maker? Yup. I needed that!
Now for the Quirks: The bathroom, while gorgeous, had a slightly wonky shower pressure. And, being the paranoid person I am, I checked all the smoke alarms and fire extinguishers (because, you know, safety first!).
Dining: From Breakfast Bliss to Midnight Munchies
This is where the Great Northern truly shines. The breakfast [buffet] was a masterpiece. Full English? Check. Pastries to die for? Double check. Asian breakfast? Surprisingly, yes! They even had the most amazing coffee. I'm not a coffee snob, but even I could taste the deliciousness.
Restaurants? A few, including the Plum + Spilt Milk restaurant. It's worth the visit, even if just for the decor (think stunning chandeliers and velvet everything). Room service [24-hour]? Yes! And, crucially, it arrived quickly and wasn't overly greasy or tragic, as room service can often be. I'm talking a life-saving midnight snack bar moment.
Things To Do & Ways To Relax (Because London is Exhausting!)
Oh boy, London. This hotel is right inside Kings Cross, and its a major travel hub, and I had a full itinerary. But you could have a Fitness center, but I didn't. I went exploring! And you could also have a Spa/sauna and more if you need a break. But I didn't.
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Safe(ish)
This is huge for me, especially post-pandemic. The hotel seemed meticulous. Hand sanitizer was everywhere. Staff trained in safety protocol. Rooms sanitized between stays. Anti-viral cleaning products. They were seriously on top of it. They have a lot of features to take care of you.
Services & Conveniences: Little Things that Matter
Concierge? Brilliant! They helped me navigate the labyrinthine tube system. Daily housekeeping? Spotless. Laundry service? Pricy, but worth it for an outfit emergency. Food delivery? Absolutely, and a lifesaver on a rainy evening. Cashless payment service? Yes.
For The Kids: A Family-Friendly Haven?
I don't have kids, but the hotel seemed definitely family-friendly, with babysitting service and a kids meal. They didn't have a pool, which is a bummer, but they did have the rest.
The Verdict: Worth the Splurge?
Look, the Great Northern Hotel is not cheap. It's a splurge. But, and this is a big but, it’s worth it. It's a perfect base to explore London, offers luxurious comfort, efficient service, and, most importantly, a vibe of genuine care.
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Escape to the Great Northern Hotel: Your Perfect London Getaway at King's Cross!
Tired of the usual travel grind? Craving a London experience that's both luxurious and convenient? Look no further than the Great Northern Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Escape! Nestled within the iconic King's Cross St. Pancras station, this hidden gem offers unparalleled access to all the best London has to offer, from world-class museums and theaters to charming pubs and historic landmarks.
Why choose the Great Northern Hotel?
- Unbeatable Location: Step outside your door and you're minutes from the tube, trains, and buses, making exploring London a breeze.
- Luxurious Comfort: Indulge in beautifully appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, plush furnishings, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
- Exceptional Dining: Savor delicious meals at the hotel's restaurants, from quick bites to gourmet experiences.
- Stress-Free Travel: Take advantage of convenient services, including 24-hour room service, a concierge, and daily housekeeping.
- Perfect for… well, everything!
- Unforgettable London experience: The Great Northern Hotel is more than just a place to sleep – it's a destination.
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Book your stay at the Great Northern Hotel today and discover a London escape like no other!
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Villa Awaits in Spain's Es Coral
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. We're not just planning a trip to the Great Northern Hotel, we're living it. This isn't your glossy brochure, this is raw, unfiltered… me. I'm already a little stressed just thinking about the Eurostar. London, here we come.
DAY 1: Arrival, Awkward Train Encounters, and the Great Northern's Grandeur (and Possible Overwhelm)
- Morning - The Great Train Escape (and a near-catastrophe):
- 6:00 AM: Groaning. Literally. My alarm's gone off, and I'm convinced I'm still dreaming of fluffy kittens. Reality check: I'm late. Again. I wrestle my suitcase (which is definitely judging my packing skills) onto the train. The Eurostar to London… glorious. Or at least, it should be.
- 7:00 AM: Arrive at the platform, only to realize I left my passport. Panic sets in. Cue frantic phone calls, begging and praying to the travel gods. (They're usually asleep at this hour, I think). Thank the heavens I found my passport, but not without a panic attack and a near heart attack.
- 9:00 AM: The Eurostar. Finally. Okay, all I have on mind is a strong coffee. I can feel this is going to be a long journey.
- 9:30 AM: The worst travel companion - a woman with a booming laugh and a penchant for talking loudly about her ex-husband. (And his… questionable hygiene habits, apparently). My headphones are my new best friend.
- 12:00 PM (ish): Arrive at St Pancras International. The architecture is breathtaking. Seriously, I’m actually slack jawing. I mean, it's not a bad way to arrive in London.
- 12:30 PM: Check-in at the Great Northern. OMFG, this place is stunning. High ceilings, plush velvet, a vibe that screams "refined badassery." I’m feeling a little underdressed. I think I have to learn how to be classy.
- Afternoon - The Hotel, the Hanger, and a Moment with a Martini:
- 1:00 PM: Checking in, or more like being received. The staff? Utterly charming. I need a hotel where I can wear comfortable clothes and feel classy.
- 2:00 PM: The room. Okay, it's not a room, it's a bloody sanctuary. Huge windows overlooking the station, art on the walls, and a bed begging you to just melt into it. Tempting, very tempting.
- 2:30 PM: I'm torn, my clothes are a mess. Should I sit in the lobby, feeling like a slob, or should I change? Hmmm.
- 3:00 PM: Explore the hotel. I'm now in the the bar. I am surrounded by stylish elegance, and I am in desperate need of a martini. The ice clinking in the glass… pure bliss. That first sip? Heaven.
- 4:00 PM: I want to get rid of this hanger and eat something. I am at the hotel restaurant, and I am ordering some delicious food. I am going to savor every bite.
- Evening - Dinner, Possibly Regret, and Bed (the true destination):
- 7:00 PM: I had the best dinner. I am going to go full-on gluttony. I am here to be fully present, and not regret anything.
- 8:00 PM: The bar is calling my name. I am here for fun. I'm going to drink until I'm silly.
- 10:00 PM: I will regret this tomorrow.
DAY 2: High Culture, Hidden Alleys, and a Fight with a Pastry
- Morning - Art, Architecture, and Avoidable Arguments:
- 9:00 AM: Ugh. I am hungover. But hey, the hotel breakfast is waiting. Or should I get a greasy meal from a restaurant near the hotel? I am thinking about it. The pastries are going to tempt me.
- 10:00 AM: I am walking around and discovering King's Cross. I realize I am not alone in the city. A street performer. I don't know what I feel about it.
- Afternoon - Street Art, Hidden Lanes, and a Bit of a Stumble:
- 1:00 PM: I am walking around the city. I am loving it. I am also looking for a place to eat.
- 2:00 PM: I am drinking a coffee and taking in the scenery. I am not too sure where to go.
- Evening - A Pub, a Pint, and Questionable Late-Night Decisions:
- 7:00 PM: I am going to a pub.
- 8:00 PM: I am going back to the hotel. I think I need sleep.
DAY 3: Departure, a Sad Goodbye, and Vowing to Return (Much Sooner Next Time)
- Morning - One Last Breakfast, Reluctant Checkout:
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast again! The breakfast spread is a masterpiece of deliciousness. I'm loading up. Gotta soak up all the goodness before reality hits.
- 10:00 AM: Time to say goodbye to the Great Northern. This hotel is a slice of heaven.
- 11:00 AM: I am going to the airport.
- 12:00 AM: Plane time.
Final Thoughts:
Okay, so this trip wasn't perfect. There were hiccups, embarrassing moments, and more carbs than my body probably appreciated. But it was real. That's what made it special. And the Great Northern Hotel? Absolutely worth every penny. I'm already plotting my return. And this time, I'm packing a better suitcase. And more coffee. And maybe, just maybe, I won't talk to the loud woman on the train.
Escape to Fairytale Germany: Wasserschloß Hotel Awaits!
Great Northern Hotel: The Hidden Gem... or Just a Pretty Room? FAQs (My Honesty Hour)
So, Is the Great Northern REALLY a "hidden gem?" I keep seeing that everywhere...
Ugh, "hidden gem." It's a marketing cliché, right? Look, I'll be honest. Depends what you're after. If you want a beautifully renovated, *stunning*, Victorian hotel, yes. Gem-like. The architecture? Seriously, it’s ridiculous how gorgeous it is. Light streams in... you feel like you're in a fancy film set. If you're expecting some secret, undiscovered hole-in-the-wall with cheap beer and dodgy karaoke...nope. Wrong address. It's *nicely* hidden, sure. Right inside King's Cross Station. Smart, actually. Genius. But "hidden"? Not really. More like… elegantly positioned. 😉
Okay, fine, it's not *that* hidden. But is it worth the price tag? Are the rooms any good?
Right. The rooms. Okay, here's where I got REAL feelings. I stayed in one of the "Couchette" rooms once (hey, I'm not made of money!). Tiny, right? Like, could barely swing a cat (not that I *would*). But! It was SO well-designed. Everything... the space, the little details, the smart use of every inch. Honestly, I found it charming. Really loved it! I'm also a sucker for a good shower, it was perfect.
And then the next time... Well, I splurged. Because, hey, life! I went for a bigger room with a view. And it was… well, it honestly made me feel a little bit emotional. I got to watch the trains come and go, the way they did it nearly a century ago with all the noise, but from a warm and dry place. Stupid, I know, but it was lovely. The beds? Cloud-like. Price? On the higher side, yeah. But honestly? Sometimes, it's worth it for that feeling of a tiny bit of luxury. Unless you're a total budget-conscious traveler, in which case... maybe not. (There are *definitely* cheaper options, I'm not saying it's the ONLY place to stay.)
Tell me about the food. The reviews say the restaurant, Plum + Spilt Milk, is good. Is it *actually* good, or just… Pretty Good for a Hotel Restaurant?
Right. Plum + Spilt Milk. Here's the thing. The interior is unbelievably gorgeous. Like, jaw-dropping. Seriously, you'll walk in and instantly feel fancy. The light fixtures, the decor… It's pure Instagram fodder, really. And the food? Alright, alright, I'll fess up. I've had a mixed bag. Some dishes were *amazing*. Like, "I could eat this every day" amazing. Others... well, they fell a bit flat. Overhyped? Maybe. The service can be a bit… formal. A little stuffy, even? Like, “Do you know who I am?” vibes, and I am just a person who is paying for my meal. But, overall, it’s a very pleasant experience. Go with an open mind and order the scallops; trust me, those were divine. Otherwise, just go for the atmosphere! That's always on point.
What's the vibe like? Is it a party hotel? (I'm old and tired of loud noises!)
Nope. *Definitely* not a party hotel. Thank God. Thank the Lord. It's elegant, refined, and generally pretty quiet. Mostly, it attracts couples, tourists, and business travelers. The kind of people who appreciate a good night's sleep. I mean, it *could* get loud, because it's in King's Cross station and all, but in my experience, the hotel is well-soundproofed. I've always found it peaceful. Except that one time with the rowdy Americans in the Couchette next door... but that's on them, not the hotel!
The location, though… being *in* King's Cross Station. Is that annoying? Is it loud?
Okay, this is a huge selling point, actually. Utter genius. Seriously, you step out of your room and… boom. You're in the station. The Eurostar, the Tube, trains going everywhere. Fantastic for travel. Lugging suitcase across town is a nightmare, so this is the best. And the noise? Well, like I said, they've done a pretty good job of soundproofing. It is a station. There is ambient noise. But it’s a *very* convenient location. And you get used to the announcements. After a while they just fade in the background - unless your train leaves in five minutes, then you’ll be stressed and running.
Anything I should absolutely *not* do at the Great Northern? Any warnings?
Okay, here's a little pro-tip: Don’t forget to pack an adapter if you're coming from abroad! Seriously, I've made that mistake twice now. Humiliating, particularly with a phone at 2% battery and an important email to write! It is a hotel; they *probably* have them at the front desk, but do you want to go through the shame? And definitely don't go in in your pajamas! They've got class, and you should too. Unless you're going to the breakfast buffet (and I may or may not have broken this rule once...). Also, don't be afraid to splurge on a drink at the bar. They are pretty, but expensive.
Overall, would you recommend it?
Honestly? Yes. With caveats. If you're after a central location, beautiful design, and don't mind paying a bit more for it... go for it. I'd say it's worth it. The location alone is worth the price. Just manage your expectations about "hidden gem" – it’s more like a “perfectly positioned and beautifully decorated” sanctuary. But yeah, I'd absolutely stay there again. I’m already planning my next visit (and I’m already thinking about splurging on a room with a view!).
