Amba Hotel Marble Arch

This large, eight-story hotel was built in 1933 and has some interesting history. Frank Sinatra and Glenn Miller have previously stayed in the building, and their photographs and music memorabilia adorn the walls in the hotel bar. The building's red-brick facade is rather plain and nondescript, though friendly, traditionally-dressed doormen make for a classically polished welcome. The hotel's interior was renovated in 2015, and the sleek, modern lobby is quite impressive. Through the revolving door there is a sleek, open space with a slate-tiled floors and a concierge desk, though the front desk is located on the first-floor, which is accessible via an elevator or escalator. The color scheme is neutral, with abstract design elements and contemporary decor throughout. The windowless lobby feels a little stuffy, and there's always a steady flow of people in this area, so it can feel busy at times. Despite this fact, the hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, with ambient jazz music playing in the background. It's a popular spot with both business travelers and tourists due to its convenient central location. The property also hosts a large number of business conferences and meetings, so there are many corporate guests staying at the hotel.

The Amba Hotel sits on a quiet side road, just a block off of London's most popular shopping destination: Oxford Street. Selfridges department store is a five-minute walk from the hotel, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the immediate area. Hyde Park is just across Oxford Street, making it ideal for guests visiting the Winter Wonderland Christmas Markets. For trips farther afield, the underground is easily accessible. Marble Arch Station is less than five-minutes away on foot, and many of London's main attractions can be reached in around 20 minutes, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and the Tate Modern. It’s around a 45-minute drive to London Heathrow Airport, or less than an hour by public transportation. Gatwick Airport and Luton Airport can be reached in about an hour by car or public transportation, while London City Airport is around 45 minutes away by car or public transportation. 

There are 692 rooms at the Amba Hotel, with a variety of types available, from basic Standard Rooms to roomy Studio Apartments. Most lack a decent view, though some higher-level rooms overlook Oxford Street and Marble Arch. Despite the hotel's central location, rooms are quiet and tranquil thanks to soundproofing. The decor is modern, yet cozy and straightforward, with neutral color schemes highlighted with blue and brown tones. Soft leather headboards crown double or king beds, while blue striped curtains frame the windows. The decor is accentuated with dark-wood work desks and closets, and each room has a full-length mirror with a spotlight and plug socket -- which is a thoughtful touch for guests when it comes to styling. Modern amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso coffeemakers, tea-making facilities, minibars, iPads, international adapter panels, laptop-compatible safes, and phones. Robes, slippers, and bottled water are free in all rooms. Guests should note that Standard Room minibars don't include alcohol.  Bathrooms are spacious and modern, with stone-colored tiles, vessel sinks, black corian countertops, and rainfall showers. Some rooms have additional bath tubs. Hairdryers and free basic toiletries are provided.

One of the highlights here is the hotel's restaurant, The Grill, which serves classic steaks and seasonal English cuisine in an elegant space. There's a breakfast buffet served daily for a fee, which includes cereals, juices, coffee, pastries, bacon, sausages, and omelettes made to order. The hotel also has a chic bar for local ales, wines, and spirits, as well as afternoon tea. Just off the lobby is The Deli, a casual spot that's ideal for a quick meeting or grabbing a bite before heading out. Sandwiches, snacks, and coffee are available for takeaway. Amba Lounge is a cozy, quiet spot for members to unwind, with free light snacks and refreshments replenished throughout the day. The hotel's fitness center is tiny, with just a few cardio and resistance machines. There are nine spacious meeting rooms in total, offering up-to-date equipment and technology. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, room service, laundry, concierge, free Wi-Fi, and parking for an additional fee.