Heading down to the Big Smoke for a gig, West End show or a night on the tiles? Those seeking a sleek and contemporary hotel with a pool, spa and easy access to the city’s main attractions will find a lot to love about the Crowne Plaza London Docklands. Add to this their ultra-cosy rooms and a modern Australasian-inspired restaurant and you’ve got one of the best spots in the area.
Conveniently located just 5 minutes away from the new Elizabeth tube line, the hotel’s Docklands setting is blissfully calm compared to central London, yet still has a nice buzz about it. With its close proximity to the O2 Arena, the area (and hotel lobby) was teaming with excitable Abba fans, dressed up in suitably garish 70’s gear to enjoy their critically-acclaimed live show.
As you enter the hotel, the impressive Fremantle Restaurant & Bar to the left and smart reception delivers an instant wow-factor. Having undergone a recent glow-up, Fremantle boasts contemporary fixtures and furnishings and has a large outdoor terrace to tempt passers by.
Check-in was fast and friendly, and we were settling down into our spacious room within minutes of arrival. Featuring two double beds, a large TV and a sizable bathroom complete with a generous amount of premium toiletries, Crowne Plaza has gone out of their way to ensure guests are comfortable and want for nothing.
We were more than a little gutted to discover the pool and spa were out of action during our stay, as this would have been perfect after a busy 48 hours in the city. Located on the third floor, the Quad Club and Spa offers up a touch of serenity with a large pool, separate male and female saunas, hot tub and steam room.
A well-equipped gym includes Peloton bikes and a ton of modern equipment for those with more will-power than us. There’s also yoga and other classes available to book in advance. We recommend you check with the hotel before booking to ensure these facilities are back in action.
Dinner time at Fremantle is a reassuringly laidback affair in a vibrant yet casual setting. The Australasian-inspired menu is peppered with Mediterranean, South American, Asian, and Middle Eastern dishes, offering something for all palates.
We began with the Mini Lamb Koftas, which were packed with flavour and served with flatbread and a warming spiced yogurt. The Crispy Pork Belly too was a treat, arriving with a sweet and spicy jalapeno relish. Neither dish was especially well presented, but more than made up for it when it came to taste.
Having overindulged at lunchtime, we both opted for the Pancetta Rolled Monkfish. Served with a Vietnamese shredded slaw salad, green mango nam phrik, peanuts and Thai herbs, this light and delicious plate was bursting with subtle yet exotic flavours.
The fruity and medium bodied Wild Garden Chenin Blanc was the perfect companion to the meaty monkfish, and is one of two whites that can be ordered by the carafe. Our only grumble related to the service, which was a touch patchy and unattentive. When we finally managed to get hold of a waiter after mains, we discovered all but one of the desserts were unavailable.
The next morning, we found breakfast to be a much slicker operation and well worth the upgrade, boasting an extensive selection of pastries, cereals, and continental delights. Hot breakfast was vast and varied too – we both enjoyed an exceptional full English with all the trimmings, alongside some premium quality coffee.
Final verdict
Whether you’re hitting up London for the theatre, a gig at the nearby O2 Arena or a weekend of shopping, the Crowne Plaza Docklands delivers exceptional value for money. With spacious rooms, a pool and spa, and great connections to the city, you get much more bang for your buck compared to more central city venues.
Crowne Plaza London Docklands, Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1AL.
Reviewed by Fletch.