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Prince Regent Hotel Excel London
First Impressions
The Prince Regent Hotel Excel London caught me off guard in the best way possible. You know how sometimes boutique hotels try too hard to be quirky? This place actually pulls it off. Tucked into a converted Victorian building on Prince Regent Lane, it’s got this understated charm that feels refreshingly authentic in a city where everything seems polished within an inch of its life.
Location & Getting Around
Here’s the thing about staying in Newham — you’re not in the thick of tourist central, but honestly, that works in your favor. The ExCeL exhibition center is literally a five-minute walk away, which is brilliant if you’re here for an event. London City Airport is close enough that you won’t spend half your day traveling, and the DLR connections mean you can be in Canary Wharf in about ten minutes. I mean, you’re not stumbling out to Covent Garden for a midnight snack, but the trade-off is worth it.
The Room Experience
My room had this interesting mix of period features and modern touches that didn’t feel forced. The ceilings were higher than I expected, and there’s something about the original sash windows that just makes you feel more connected to the neighborhood. The bathroom was compact but well thought out — they actually managed to fit a proper shower without making the whole space feel cramped.
Dining & Atmosphere
The restaurant downstairs serves solid British fare with a few international options thrown in. Nothing groundbreaking, but the Sunday roast was actually quite good, and the staff seemed to genuinely care about what they were serving. There’s also this cozy bar area where locals occasionally pop in — always a good sign that you’ve found somewhere with real character rather than just another tourist trap.
Why Guests Love It
What strikes me most about this place is how it manages to feel like a neighborhood find rather than just another hotel. The staff remember your name after a day or two, parking is available without the usual London drama, and there’s something refreshing about staying somewhere that doesn’t feel like it’s trying to impress everyone who walks through the door. It’s comfortable in its own skin, which is rarer than you’d think in the hotel world.
Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in