HOTEL of the week

PARK PLAZA LONDON WATERLOO

WHERE AND WHY The Park Plaza London Waterloo may be just a five-minute walk from Britain’s busiest train station, but it’s a world away in terms of feel and comfort. It is close enough to all that London offers, yet never seems cramped. The twinkly lights and kitsch ornaments of the vast reception only give a hint of the futuristic vibe found inside. Neonlit lifts like something from a sci-fi film whisk you up to spacious rooms with giant windows that look out over the iconic London skyline. Everything in the room is controlled from one of two glowing blue keypads, from the giant flatscreen TV and the six different light settings, to the drawing of the huge black-out curtain. And for those who want yet more pampering, the spa is downstairs.

ON THE MENU Breakfast is served until lie-in-tastic 11am, with everything from a full English, or veggie version, to porridge with honey and fruit. But it is the upmarket Florentine Restaurant and Bar where the best taste sensations can be found. The cocktail list includes nods to the area with the boozy Mr Lambeth, or exotic destinations with the fruity Amalfi Infusion. Mains in the bistro are served from noon until 10.30pm and are well priced for the city. The grilled sea bass (€19) and rib-eye with chips (€20) were delicious, and we’re glad we shared a dessert because the creme brulee with ginger shortbread (€6) was huge. Topped off with a lovely bottle of Argentine malbec, it made for a very pleasant evening.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE Almost on the doorstep is4 the Imperial War Museum, or the Tube can connect you to London’s fine parks. In the opposite direction, one of the city’s oldest market streets, Lower Marsh, has quirky shops and bars.

WAKE-UP CALL Rooms from €156

per night. parkplaza.co.uk, 0044 0800 0927 670 JANINE YAQOOB