Park Plaza County Hall London

The four-pearl Park Plaza County Hall London opened in 2008 and is still one of the more recent additions to this crowded South Bank neighborhood (its nearby sibling, Park Plaza, is newer). The hotel's exterior is characterized by a simple yet innovative contemporary facade, with a revolving glass door that delivers guests into a light, modern lobby area. Colorful flowers together with jazzy carpets and playful lampshades brighten most of the public areas. A central atrium with exposed glass elevators soars impressively up the property's 14 floors, though lack of windows in the hallways can make these spaces feel rather gloomy. Despite a corporate feel to much of the hotel, families with kids make up a surprising majority of the clientele thanks to its child-friendly facilities (such as movie nights and pizza-making classes) and a reputation for catering to families. Business guests also frequent the property, making use of conference spaces. 

This hotel is set on a well-trafficked roundabout just east of Westminster Bridge between the River Thames and Waterloo Station train terminal. Its central location is particularly convenient for tourists, within easy walking distance of a number of the capital's most famous landmarks including the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament all within 15 minutes on foot. There are a few restaurants nearby, mainly fast-food chains, but the South Bank with its collection of eateries, plus the Royal Festival Hall and National Theatre, is a 10-minute walk away. Proximity to Waterloo Station also means easy public transport links throughout London.

This hotel has 399 rooms, studios, and suites, all of which are decorated in fresh, contemporary styling with simple polished wood furnishings, colorful wall art, and floor-to-ceiling windows providing plenty of natural light. Standard amenities include tea/coffee facilities, minibars, and microwaves. Flat-screen TVs come with movies on demand and Wi-Fi is free of charge (though the connection can be slow); suites add iPod docks. Studios are spacious with separate living rooms (with double sofa beds) and small wet bars. Contemporary bathrooms are topped with marble and have walk-in showers, anti-steam mirrors, and Elemis toiletries; some rooms also have separate soaking tubs. Higher-floor rooms feature views of London landmarks, including the Shard and the iconic OXO Tower. The seven upper-floor Penthouse Suites also have balconies with superb views of the river towards the Houses of Parliament. 

A decent hot and cold breakfast buffet is served in the main L'Italiano restaurant, though the service can get very busy, it's not included in the rate, and is pricey. Positioned under the impressive 14-floor atrium, this main eatery is also open for lunch and dinner, offering Italian favorites including pizza from a clay oven. The Spectrum Bar and Cafe serves lighter meals and a good range of cocktails. A spa offers massage treatments, as well as a sauna and steam room, and there's a fitness room with a few machines and free weights but it has no windows and feels a bit dark. The hotel's main strength is in its child-friendly activities, offering regular entertainment such as movie nights and pizza-making classes. Guest laundry is available on-site. A few conference rooms are available. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but the connection can be slow.