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A night in the CitizenM Bankside.
The CitizenM group of hotels pride themselves on offering “affordable luxury” in their innovative collection of hotels. The latest hotel to open is the CitizenM Bankside, the group’s first ever London hotel – although two more are already in the pipeline for St Pauls and the Tower of London.
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I had the treat of staying at CitizenM Bankside during one of the ‘test runs’ last month. Located behind the Tate, the look of the place from the outside is impressive, with slick clean lines and lots of window space holding the reflections of neighbouring buildings. Greeted by the friendly staff upon entering I was able to check myself in using the simple touch screen systems, a quick and easy hassle free quirk.
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The main space on the ground floor incorporates most of the facilities, the help desk, seating areas, outside seating areas, bar, cafe shop and workspace. Imagine if the Big Brother house was turned into a hotel, well this is it. The decor is truly brilliant - all different kinds of styles creating a very eclectic, bold and fun environment. Use the MACs with free Internet, connect to the free WiFi, lounge on the huge sofas, chat at the tables or plonk yourself on a stool at the bar – this is clearly the central hub of the hotel and during my stay the atmosphere was buzzing!
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The 192 rooms are set across seven floors in a square shape which surrounds the outdoor courtyard. The rooms are compact and simple but all have an XL King bed with a window looking out onto the courtyard and into the opposite rooms, a tablet mood pad which controls all functions and also offers free Internet access and a free bank of movies. You will also find a small fridge, shower, bespoke toiletries and a telephone.
The beds are comfy and spacious with extra pillows and blankets which store away in the draws. I slept like a baby and would definitely recommend the hotel, it would seem affordable luxury is the way forward.
Before I left I popped over to the dining space for breakfast, which was equally impressive with fresh pastries, yoghurts, a hot buffet and selection of fruits. If this is affordable luxury, I’ll take it!
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Photo credits: London Hotels Insight blogger Jules.
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