In a central location, we found that the
London Marriott Hotel Marble Arch was not too far from Harrods in Knightsbridge.
So, what was it like? The first thing we noticed here was the high level of security. Most certainly due to the terrorist attacks in London around the time of our visit, the hotel staff took safety very seriously. With a baggage checkpoint at the front door and a gentleman with a security wand that was waved over each entering guest, I felt for a moment like I was back at the airport! However, I did not mind this at all. The staff was very polite, and we felt this was a very minor inconvenience.
How were the rooms? Though rooms are traditionally smaller in Europe than in the US, we were pleased that one room could still accommodate our entire family. My husband and I had a comfortable bed, while the two boys took the foldout couch. Housekeeping was quick to come up with the needed sheets as soon as I called them. Our window looked down on the busy street below. A newspaper was delivered for us in the morning.
Restaurant? We enjoyed a nice meal in the restaurant downstairs. The service here was fabulous. While my husband and I both chose Lebanese entrées from the predominantly Mediterranean choices, the boys were happy with pizza from a kid's menu. The hummus was wonderful, and I also liked the Lebanese pastries (Fatayer) stuffed with lamb, cheese, and spinach. I noticed that the room service menu offered more-traditional English fare, like fish-and-chips and sausage and mash.
Extras? There is a pool and fitness center here. Children are only allowed to swim until 8:30pm, but they enjoyed this wind-down time. High-speed Internet access is available for a fee.
It has all you'd expect from a Marriott.