Premier Inn London Kensington (Olympia) hotel

The hotel's prime location near Earl's Court tube station is its signature feature, making it an excellent base for sightseers and families exploring London's attractions, including nearby museums and the West End. Many guests consistently highlight the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, who are often described as going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. While the hotel generally offers clean and comfortable rooms, some aspects of the building's age and ongoing maintenance receive mixed feedback, with some rooms noted for their spaciousness and others for being basic or having minor issues. The breakfast is frequently praised for its extensive variety and quality, though experiences can sometimes be inconsistent. This hotel is particularly well-suited for business travelers and those seeking a convenient and value-oriented stay in a central area. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to request a room at the back of the hotel or on a higher floor to minimize potential noise from the busy main road, and be aware that Wi-Fi performance can be inconsistent.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently comment on the hotel's Wi-Fi, noting that the free service is often very slow or unusable, and even the paid "ultimate Wi-Fi" does not always provide a significant improvement. The lift system is a recurring point of concern, with one often being out of order or experiencing intermittent issues, which can be inconvenient, especially given the building's multi-level layout and narrow corridors. While some rooms feature effective air conditioning, others report it as noisy or non-functional, and windows are often painted shut, making a working AC crucial. Tea and coffee facilities are provided in rooms, with extra supplies often available at reception. Some "Premier Plus" rooms also include a Nespresso machine and a fridge. The hotel's exterior is frequently mentioned as being under scaffolding or appearing tired, suggesting ongoing or needed renovations.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be clean and spotless, with many appreciating the comfortable beds that ensure a good night's sleep. However, feedback on room comfort and condition is mixed. While some describe rooms as spacious and well-appointed, others report them as small, cramped, or basic, particularly basement rooms. A significant concern is noise, with frequent mentions of road noise from the busy main road, footsteps from adjacent rooms or above, and general internal noise disturbing sleep. Many reviews also highlight issues with damp smells, mustiness, or a fusty odor in rooms, sometimes linked to non-opening windows or poor ventilation. Specific maintenance issues include dripping showers, non-flushing toilets, broken air conditioning, peeling paint, and even instances of mould.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience receives varied but generally positive feedback. Many guests praise the extensive choice, describing it as yummy, fresh, and tasty, with a good selection of cooked options and value for money. However, some report issues with cold food, slow replenishment, or the buffet food drying up quickly, and a few found the quality to be poor or the area understaffed. For dinner and evening meals, feedback is also mixed; some found the food well-cooked and fresh with plenty of choice, while others described it as "disgusting" or "not good." There were also instances where the restaurant facilities were unavailable due to unforeseen issues. The bar area is noted as small and lacking atmosphere, though the drinks are considered reasonably priced.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage. It is conveniently situated just a 5 to 10-minute walk from Earl's Court tube station, providing excellent access to the District, Piccadilly, and Circle lines for easy travel across London. Guests appreciate its proximity to key attractions such as the Natural History Museum, V&A Museum, Design Museum, and the Royal Albert Hall, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. The surrounding area is well-equipped with numerous shops, restaurants, takeaways, and supermarkets, offering convenience for daily needs and dining options. While located on a busy main road, its accessibility to public transport and local amenities makes it a highly practical choice for exploring the city.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receive overwhelming praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently describe them as welcoming, going above and beyond to assist with requests, and being knowledgeable about the local area. The check-in and check-out process is generally reported as smooth and efficient, with staff readily accommodating early arrivals by storing luggage. Many reviews highlight specific instances of exceptional service, such as staff quickly resolving minor room issues, providing extra amenities, or offering helpful recommendations. Despite occasional mentions of understaffing during busy periods, the overall sentiment is that the team is dedicated to providing excellent customer service, making guests feel valued and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is housed in a converted townhouse building, which results in a less conventional layout with narrow corridors and some rooms requiring navigation via small staircases, potentially challenging for those with mobility issues. The early check-in option is available for a fee but is not guaranteed, leading to occasional disappointment if rooms are not ready. The Wi-Fi policy is a notable point; while free Wi-Fi is provided, it is often reported as very slow, and even the paid "ultimate Wi-Fi" may not offer significant improvement. Room servicing, including towel changes, is not automatic and must be requested daily at reception. Some guests noted the absence of complimentary water bottles in rooms and found the provided duvets to be very thick. Additionally, the toilet paper is dispensed one sheet at a time, which some guests found inconvenient.