The Berkeley

We stayed for one night in Sept for our Wedding Anniversary. We had managed to get a “deal” through Amex so the room cost £340.

We booked a deluxe king room which on the website looks reasonably modern. On checking in we were given a room on the 7th floor overlooking the church which they appear to have tried to upgrade by sloshing some paint about. The lamps were 1980’s mis-matched, there were white painted (chipped) coffee / side tables and the bathroom may have been marble but again I suspect it was installed in 1980. Even the sofa should have been replaced years ago – all in all it was poor. Because we were only staying one night my husband decided he couldn’t be bothered to have to complain but we at least asked them to replace the worn / crunchy towels with some soft ones – this was done. All in all I thought the room was tired, old and in serious need of a revamp – it was very disappointing and certainly not representative of anything pictured on the website. What is also poor is that when I booked they asked copious questions as to why we were staying and what our preferences were and yet when we checked in the guy on reception asked why we were staying and whether we needed a restaurant reservation. We had in fact booked the Chefs table in Marcus Wareing but again they seemed to have no knowledge of this.

Breakfast was terrible – cold food which we had to return. A poached egg on an English muffin was cooked to the point of hardness and presented on a barely toasted wet soggy muffin – can’t they even be bothered to remove the excess water before they put it on the muffin. It was the worst hotel breakfast I have ever had.

What should have been an extremely special night was somewhat ruined by the hotel experience although the dinner was excellent.

We visited for a romantic anniversary treat. Check-in was prompt and efficient with complimetary soft drink. Our room on the 7th floor overlooking the church was 'gentlemans club' style - maybe a bit 'tired' but cosy and comfortable. Our package included champagne which was there on arrival along with chocolates and fruit and a card from the staff. The balcony/terrace (which could do with a bit of an update/makeover) had a view of the London Eye, Battersea Power Station and a beautifully night-lit Harrods. The small bathroom was well appointed with delicious smelling Asprey products and plenty of fluffy towels. Room service didn't arrive on one occasion but a reminder phonecall resulted in profuse apologies and the arrival of requested tea & biscuits within minutes. Would like to have listened to some music in our room but didn't think the £2 charge for an hour was acceptable given the cost of the room! The Boxwood Cafe was fabulous and despite them having no record of our booking, we were quickly seated and enjoyed a fantastic meal. The Blue Bar was wonderful - great atmosphere and friendly, attentive staff. Cocktails were expensive but good and the complimentary nibbles were very tasty. Slight downside is that our requested newspapers weren't delivered to our room but there were plenty of copies around the hotel to read. Waiting staff at breakfast very efficient and friendly and quality of food was excellent. Door staff also very polite and welcoming. Would definitely stay again!