InterContinental London – The O2

First Impressions

Walking into InterContinental London – The O2, you immediately understand this isn’t just another hotel trying to capitalize on its proximity to a famous venue. This five-star property actually feels like it belongs here — sleek, contemporary, and honestly quite stunning with those floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the lobby with Thames-side light. The staff genuinely seems to enjoy working here, which you notice right away when they’re not just going through the motions during check-in.

Location & Views

Here’s what I love about Greenwich — you’re technically still in London, but it feels like you’ve escaped the chaos without sacrificing anything important. The hotel sits right on the waterfront, so many rooms offer these sweeping river views that change throughout the day. You can walk to the O2 Arena in literally three minutes (I timed it), but more importantly, you’re a short cable car ride across to Canary Wharf or a pleasant river bus journey into central London. The Greenwich foot tunnel is right there too, which locals use but tourists often miss.

The Room Experience

My room was on the seventh floor facing the Thames, and honestly, I spent way too much time just staring out the window. The luxury touches are there — Agraria bath products, Egyptian cotton linens, that sort of thing — but they don’t feel pretentious. The marble bathroom was genuinely spacious, not the usual hotel squeeze-fest. What impressed me most was how quiet everything stayed despite being so close to a major entertainment venue.

Dining & Amenities

Eighteen Sky Bar on the eighteenth floor is where you want to end up for drinks — the views are ridiculous, especially at sunset when the light hits Canary Wharf’s towers. The Peninsula restaurant downstairs serves solid modern European cuisine, though I’d actually recommend venturing into Greenwich proper for dinner. The spa and fitness center are both well-equipped, and there’s covered parking if you’re driving (though honestly, you probably shouldn’t in London).

Why Guests Love It

This place works because it strikes that perfect balance between luxury and accessibility. You’re not paying Mayfair prices, but you’re getting genuine five-star service and facilities. The location gives you the best of both worlds — you can catch a show at the O2, explore historic Greenwich with its maritime museums and weekend markets, or hop on the DLR and be in Bank in twenty minutes. It’s particularly brilliant if you’re here for an event at the O2 but want something more sophisticated than the usual arena-adjacent options.