The Hilton Paddington is the former Great Western Railway grand old London hotel, but has obviously been completely refurbished. It’s part of Paddington Train Station and that makes it ideal for those connecting to or from London Heathrow airport.

I stayed the night of Monday 9th March 2020 and this was my second visit. My first visit was in 2017.

I arrived at Paddington Station from London Heathrow – always use the Heathrow Connect and not the rip off Heathrow Express service unless you’re in a desperate rush. There’s a rear entrance to the hotel via the small shopping centre within the station – take an escalator up one floor.

Reception wasn’t busy at 5pm, I was welcomed as a Diamond member and upgraded to a family room. The only thing I miss about an Executive Room are the fluffy bathrobes, but a family room is usually bigger.

The corridors are long.

The room was large.

The view disappointing.

The wi-fi was very good. The safe, safe. I didn’t use the tea-making facilities.

The small Executive Lounge is on the ground floor. The entrance desk was unmanned most of the time – your room card provides access. Happy hour is 18:00-20:00 (free drinks and snacks). The snack food options were pretty average. The drink options were pretty poor and the red wine was undrinkable.

I met a friend for dinner at The Frontline Club, an excellent restaurant only a few minutes walk from the main front entrance of the Hilton. On my way back, I took this picture of the hotel.

There was always a long wait for the elevators. One reason for that is that the far left elevator is not connected to the other two (one of which was out of order). So guests press both call buttons and take the first car to arrive – the other takes a wasted journey.

I asked for a late checkout, just until 1pm and the reception desk were more than happy to arrange that – they even offered me a later time if needed.

Overall I enjoyed my stay and would certainly consider staying again. The question is: Has this stay changed my ranking? Yes, although only slightly – I’ve moved the Hilton Paddington from 14th to 13th place in my list, at the expense of the Hilton Dresden.

Hilton London Paddington
146 Praed Street, London, W2 1EE, United Kingdom

TEL: +44-207-850-0500
FAX: +44-207-850-0600