This family-friendly, Grade II listed building boasts unparalleled river views and has seen politicians and royalty grace its halls for centuries

By Jon Binstead

There is certainly no shortage of options when it comes to finding somewhere to stay for a weekend trip to London. Decision paralysis may in fact make choosing a hotel seem impossible, so selecting based on key requirements may make things easier. If location is important, you would be hard pushed to find somewhere better situated than the London Marriott County Hall.

Gillray’s Bar

Prime location

From the perspective of someone who spent 16 years living in London, even this writer was impressed. A literal stone’s throw from the London Eye on the South Bank of the river Thames and only a few minutes from either Westminster or Waterloo stations, you are greeted by several iconic views – including that of Big Ben – as you enter the grounds of the hotel. You could easily spend a day sightseeing using the hotel as a base without setting foot on public transport, but should you change your mind, hop-on hop-off tourist buses frequently stop near the hotel’s doorstep.

Afternoon tea with views of Big Ben

Family matters

The location is also ideal for families with children, especially those with legs that tire easily, and the hotel is incredibly accommodating to children of all ages. For those who wish to be close (but not too close) to their offspring, there are adjoining rooms available, or indeed suites which can sleep up to four. The entire hotel shares a secure wifi connection allowing parents to leave wifi-enabled video monitors (not provided) on while you dine downstairs, or there is a babysitter recommendation service using local babysitters if you wish to head out into London.

The menus at the restaurants on-site are where you really noticed the consideration into catering for children of all ages. Dining options go beyond simply a burger and chips (although this is still available), and every eatery offers a selection of fruit and vegetables. For children old enough to have read Roald Dahl, there is even a fantastically-adorned room dedicated to The Twits that offers afternoon tea. Complete with ‘Bird Pie’ and ‘Wormy Spaghetti’, the menu is a delight for fans of the book.

Classic guest rooms with a contemporary twist

Eat, drink and be merry

In addition to keeping children happy, there is plenty for adults to enjoy when it comes to dining and drinks. Gillray’s Steakhouse is an atmospheric spot for breakfast and dinner (and lunch should you wish), boasting excellent views of the Thames at any time of day. Featuring meat and fish from local butchers and fishmongers respectively, diners can enjoy starters including half a lobster and tiger prawns before choosing from a variety of steak cuts and sides. A superb wine list is on offer if desired, as well as an adjacent wood-panelled bar featuring over 120 gins in what used to be the Members’ Reading Room. Executive Suite members can also enjoy 24-hour access to the M Suite, a concierge lounge by day, wine bar by night, offering complimentary soft drinks and snacks around the clock and alcoholic beverages and tapas-style table snacks every evening.

The hotel’s 25m swimming pool

Rooms with a view

The hotel occupies over two-thirds of the resplendent County Hall building, and throughout you’ll find tastefully decorated rooms that are rich with history – this was once the HQ of local government, opened in 1922 by King George V and Queen Mary. If book-lined walls could talk… You can also opt to have a Big Ben-themed afternoon tea within the Library.

The majority of the 200+ rooms in the hotel feature a Thames view so close that you could almost converse with passengers on the London Eye. The guest rooms pay homage to classic British style, while still feeling contemporary. All guests at the hotel have access to the ground floor gym and the 25-metre (yes, 25 metre) pool on the fifth floor which is a sight to behold. 

Overall the hotel felt comfortable and offered what you’d expect from one of the largest hotel groups in the world. The location certainly elevates the building, but what really made the stay special was the level of service – nothing was too much for any of the staff. If you’re looking for heritage teamed with legendary landmarks and top-notch facilities, this Marriott should be high on your list.

Rooms at Marriott Hotel County Hall start from £300 including breakfast