Holiday Inn Express London Victoria by IHG

First Impressions

Walking up to the Holiday Inn Express London Victoria by IHG on Belgrave Road, you’ll notice it’s tucked into one of those classic Victorian terraces that give this part of London its character. The entrance is modern and welcoming — nothing flashy, but you can tell this three-star hotel takes care of its guests from the moment you step inside. The lobby’s got that fresh, contemporary feel that IHG properties do well, with comfortable seating areas perfect for checking your phone or planning your day.

Location That Actually Works

Here’s what I love about staying in Victoria — you’re genuinely close to everything without paying Mayfair prices. Victoria Station is literally a five-minute walk away, which means you’ve got the Gatwick Express, tons of tube lines, and buses heading in every direction. But honestly, the real gem is being able to walk to Buckingham Palace in about ten minutes, and Westminster Abbey’s just a pleasant stroll across St. James’s Park. The neighborhood itself has that proper London residential vibe, especially around the garden squares nearby.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in was exactly what you’d expect from Holiday Inn Express — clean, functional, and surprisingly comfortable. The bed was properly firm (thank goodness), and there’s decent space to spread out your luggage without feeling cramped. What surprised me was how quiet it was considering you’re on a fairly busy road — the windows do their job well. The shower had good pressure too, which honestly makes or breaks a London hotel stay for me.

Breakfast and Daily Essentials

The complimentary breakfast is where Holiday Inn Express really delivers value. It’s not just continental — there’s a proper hot buffet with scrambled eggs, sausages, and bacon that’ll fuel you for a full day of sightseeing. The coffee’s actually decent too, and they’ve got those pancake machines that are oddly satisfying to use. There’s no full-service restaurant, but with Victoria’s dining scene right outside (including some brilliant Indian places on nearby Wilton Road), you’re not lacking for options.

Why Guests Love It

What makes this place work is that it delivers exactly what it promises — no surprises, good or bad. The staff are genuinely helpful with directions and recommendations, and there’s something reassuring about staying with a brand that maintains consistent standards. You’re getting solid three-star comfort in one of London’s most connected neighborhoods, and at a price point that won’t completely destroy your travel budget. For visitors who want to be close to the major sights without sacrificing convenience or comfort, it’s honestly hard to beat this combination of location and value.