HOTEL: RADISSON RED LONDON GREENWICH THE O2
THE HOTEL A short walk from North Greenwich DLR station and five miles from London City, this ultra-artsy and style-savvy 70-room hotel is decorated by splashes of red, a theme which apparently helps "amplify the worlds of art, fashion and music".
covid strategy The hotel operates under the Radisson Safety Protocol Programme in partnership with SGS, an inspection, testing and certification company that verifies Covid health, hygiene and cleanliness.
THE check-in The reception area sits in an industrial-styled lobby area that could best be described as 'urban funky'. The area also has a huge 'touch screen' that allows you to search for local attractions, although the two friendly staff also had helpful suggestions for nearby restaurants.
THE room My 'superior' room was modern, super-clean, sleek and clearly aimed at millennials (of both age and mind). Bold red decor featured via an old-fashioned dial telephone and artwork hanging above the bed. The king-size bed was super-comfortable and the spacious bathroom featured a rain-effect shower and Red-branded bathroom amenities. A 55-inch flatscreen Chromecast TV was built into the wall and there were useful bedside USB ports. Triple-glazing kept traffic noise to a minimum. There was also a desk, mini fridge and Nespresso machine.
THE business There's free Wi-fi throughout the hotel and on-site parking. There are plenty of 'social spaces' throughout for ad hoc meetings.
THE facilities A 'grab and go' cupboard in the reception offers snacks, water, wine, deodorant, toothpastes, etc. The large Manhattan-style bar has craft beers and a barman keen to show off his cocktail-making skills. An all-day restaurant serves pizzas, burgers, chicken wings, and salads. A very generous breakfast was cooked to order. A 'lounge area', with big sofas and a pool table, leads into the restaurant. A large glass-covered rooftop Shisha lounge offers drinks with a view. There's also a small gym.
THE verdict Bold and playful, this is a style-conscious hotel with attitude that offers an ultra-relaxed alternative to other more staid London hotels.
THE details Radisson RED, London Greenwich 02, 228 Tunnel Avenue, London, SE10 0PL; 0208 054 1950; radissonhotels.com. Rooms from £120