Arrival/Check-in: The hotel’s exterior is understated and easy to miss, lending a pleasantly discreet feel on arrival. Inside, reception sits to the right behind a long bronze counter with distinctive character and a wall of polished green resin that catches the light. The lobby’s functional artworks, created by Ian and Richard Able, include five-foot-tall silver sculptures of elongated human figures positioned within the large arched windows. Soft French vocal music enhances the calm atmosphere. A concierge/bellman promptly offered assistance with our luggage, and even with multiple guests checking in, we received our keys within minutes and took the elevator up to our room. (30/30)
Guest Quarters: The property, formerly the Marlborough, recently completed a comprehensive $40 million renovation, and the rooms reflect that fresh, newly refurbished quality. Our standard room featured a double bed, a small table, and an apple-green upholstered chair. A compact office chair was tucked under the bedside table, which doubles as a modest workspace—large enough for light laptop use but not extensive desk work. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, which was particularly convenient. A small corner window looked onto an interior courtyard with views of service ducts, and the compact bathroom felt modern and functional with a frosted window that could be opened for ventilation. (24/30)
Services/Amenities: The Bloomsbury Street Bar and Restaurant occupies the ground floor, with seating that spills onto the sidewalk, making it a lively spot for drinks or casual meals. Breakfast was included and well presented, and the concierge team was helpful with local recommendations. Gary at the desk was especially enthusiastic about theatre options, sharing firsthand tips about current productions and offering a helpful theatre map when shows were sold out. He also provided clear directions to the nearby British Museum, which is only a short walk from the hotel. (40/40)
The Experience: With 174 rooms, the hotel’s public areas are stylish and feel like a contemporary gallery, thanks to an extensive art collection displayed throughout the property. The Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury maintains a quiet, unpretentious character; staff are personable and engaging, fitting well with the intellectual and academic atmosphere of the Bloomsbury neighborhood in central London.
Total Score: 94/100
Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street
Bloomsbury Street
London WC1B 3QD, United Kingdom
tel 44 20 7636 5601