Park Grand London Paddington

London is popping with hotels, and while Park Grand London Paddington might not be an exceptionally unique find with its typical features and somewhat standard (but still stylish) contemporary decor, it does a pleasant job of blending the past and present. Outside, the hotel's shell is a partially-preserved terraced Victorian building with an entrance directly off the street. A step up in class and style from its sister property Park Grand Hyde Park, Park Grand London Paddington has a doorman patiently waiting outside, greeting guests and offering a hand with luggage.The decor here nods slightly more toward classic. The lobby has sparkling, polished tile floors with tufted leather sofas in teal, delicately dangling contemporary glass chandeliers, and a luxe marbled reception desk. Hallways are a bit more basic in comparison, with red squiggly line designs cutting into beige carpets. The most interesting bit, however, is the overall curved shape of the hotel, lending to a semi-circular shape in the hallways. This small detail (though no small design feat) adds a distinct element of modern style.Most guests at the Park Grand are business guests, many of whom can be found in the swanky chic, exclusive Club Lounge. The one place the hotel's style doesn't match up is the restaurant. With teal faux-leather high-backed benched seating and square tables, the vibe feels less classic chic and slightly more modern diner-esque.

Park Grand London Paddington is located off a quiet street lined with terrace Victorian homes, although still within walking distance from one of London's main transportation hubs. In under 10 minutes, guests can reach London Paddington National Rail station as well as the Circle, District, Bakerloo, and Lancaster Gate Underground lines. However, those looking to walk to interesting attractions or have a large selection of restaurants and bars on hand may find the area to be lacking -- although Hyde Park can be reached within six minutes on foot. There’s a Sainsbury's grocery store less than 10 minutes away as well as a few cafes. Heathrow Airport is about 25 minutes west by public transit and up to 35 minutes away by car. Gatwick Airport is around 70 minutes south, while Stansted is 60 minutes north.

Park Grand London Paddington's 158 rooms are pleasant with traditional wood-paneled walls and bright duvet covers, but bathrooms are small and there are no bathtubs. Each room has its own foyer which can be closed off from the sleeping area for added privacy and noise reduction. Because rooms are built off of the unique semi-circular hallways, the layout varies per unit. Kettles, mounted flat-screen TVs, and ample supply of basic toiletries are standard in each room, although some may have mini-fridges. Suites come with a few freebies such as wine (Club Room) or champagne (Honeymoon Suite) and fresh fruit. Because of the varying designs and size, be sure you ask just how big your room will be if space is a concern. And a special note: Some guests have found that the shower design in some bathrooms tends to result in spilled water on the floor.

The Park Grand doesn't stand out too much with its typical hotel features. However, certain rooms are especially geared toward business travelers and include exclusive access to the Club Lounge, a quiet and comfortable area filled with brown leather tub seats, periodicals, fresh fruit, and a flat-screen TV. This is also where the hotel's business center computer can be found.A small cardio-only fitness room is available on-site, but only has three machines. The hotel's contemporary diner-styled restaurant is home to a generous free breakfast complete with hot items and several continental selections. It is also open for evening snacks. The hotel bar provides light appetizers in the evening along with a full bar and wine list. Free Wi-Fi can be found throughout the property.