Now we frequent a fair number of hotels, from the basics so some far fancier outfits (we know, it’s a tough gig), but few have impressed us as much recently as Z Hotels did.
With 11 hotels all in the throng of London’s action, from Gloucester Place to Shoreditch in the east, this is a chain that has their USP nailed. Small but perfectly formed, each location has been designed to ensure you have everything you need with no frills but maximum comfort.
We checked into a double room at their Strand property, mere minutes from Charing Cross station, Covent Garden and Theatreland, our room was cutely cosy with plenty of hanging space, underbed storage and a compact shower room. The beds are sumptuously comfortable, like dangerously so and made in the UK no less, with beautifully crisp linen. Be warned you’re at risk of sleeping in if you don’t set an alarm given the space is also finished with extremely handy blackout blinds. This is a room that’s been designed with a good night’s sleep in mind. An HDTV and wi-fi make it a great little pod for hunkering down in if you need to get some work done without disturbance. And extra points are given for the genuinely excellent hairdryer - you’d be surprised how many apparently five star hotels are rather lacking in that department…
With a well-stocked tea and coffee tray and bottles of filtered water in-room, along with complimentary toiletries, it’s got everything you need and then some. We were super impressed with the breakfast. Fresh bread and pastries, a lovely selection of toppings, fruits, juices and hot drinks.
Rooms start from just £65, with our double coming in at £75 - this hotel chain is astonishingly good value for money. Budget-conscious without feeling in the slightest bit budget, it’s compact luxury and we’re here for it. Plus, book direct and you'll receive complimentary cheese and wine when you check in!
