Rafayel Hotel & Spa

London 51.47035400, -0.17747000 , 34 Lombard Road (Show on Map)
7.6
Good


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Summary of reviewsRafayel Hotel & Spa offers a blend of scenic, convenient and luxurious experiences for its guests. Located on the banks of the River Thames, it provides beautiful views and a peaceful environment, making it an ideal retreat from central London's bustle. The hotel's accessibility via Clapham Junction, bus stops and secure parking add to its convenience, though its distance from the nearest underground station is a minor downside. The surrounding area is perfect for leisure activities with numerous nearby dining and entertainment options.

Guests generally appreciated the breakfast, which offers a good selection of sweet and savory options with particular praise for the full English breakfast. However, the quality and service have been noted as inconsistent with some guests finding the experience underwhelming. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant is generally well-received with many guests lauding the excellent food and attentive staff. Despite some criticism of limited and sometimes plain menu options, the overall dining experience is considered good value for money.

The rooms at Rafayel Hotel & Spa stand out for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Guests enjoy well-equipped, modern amenities, comfortable beds and stunning river views. Although some minor issues like street noise were reported, they do not significantly detract from the overall high satisfaction with the room quality.

Cleanliness is a strong point of the hotel, frequently praised for its well-maintained rooms and public spaces. The staff, described as polite, welcoming and helpful, contribute significantly to the pleasant atmosphere. While there were occasional mentions of unprofessional behavior, such instances are rare.

The free Wi-Fi at the hotel receives mixed reviews with some guests finding the connection efficient while others experience issues with speed and reliability. Improvements in this area could enhance the overall guest experience.

The spa and gym facilities offer a well-rounded fitness and relaxation experience despite their smaller size and occasional unavailability. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and accessibility of these amenities, though some feel the spa hours and maintenance could be improved.

Parking at the hotel is a notable convenience with secure underground options available. Although some found the parking fee a bit high, the guaranteed space and added security are significant advantages.

For families, the hotel provides a welcoming environment with spacious room configurations suitable for family stays. The involvement of the hotel's owner in guest interaction adds a personal touch to the experience.

Overall, Rafayel Hotel & Spa provides a comfortable, scenic and well-connected stay with a mix of praise for its room quality, food, cleanliness and staff service, though there are areas such as Wi-Fi and spa facilities that could use further attention.
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Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Rafayel Hotel & Spa embodies a deep-rooted commitment to eco-conscious luxury. The concept of the hotel was born from a desire to preserve the environment, adopting conscientious and eco-friendly features. In terms of energy efficiency, Rafayel stands out with its unique Philips-designed LED lighting schemes, an innovative air-conditioning system with minimal energy consumption, and a state-of-the-art air ventilation system that boasts up to 70% heat recovery efficiencies.

Moreover, Rafayel Hotel & Spa has focused on creating additional landscape, featuring a grove of oxygen-releasing bamboo and a rainwater harvesting system. This harvested rainwater is then used for plant irrigation. The hotel extends its commitment to sustainability to its food and drink options, providing all-organic products in its spa, guestrooms, and public areas, including organic and fair-trade products in the mini-bars. Furthermore, the furnishings and services of the hotel uphold the eco-friendly ethos with sustainable and recycled materials used throughout, such as synthetic wood doors, recycled leather furnishings, and “Hypnos” beds that are recycled with a zero landfill and zero carbon footprint process. A hotel-wide “No plastic” policy and recycling initiatives for glass and paper solidify Rafayel Hotel & Spa's dedication to sustainable practices in luxury hospitality.

Luxury Hotel

Hotel for Honeymoon

Hotel with Spa
Spa facilities:
Private massage and treatment room(s)
Hot tub(s) / Jacuzzi(s)
Fitness area
Spa services:
Facial treatments
Body treatments
Foot massage
Swedish massage
Aromatherapy
Manicure
Pedicure
Answers last updated according to the official website.

Family Friendly Hotel

Dog Friendly Hotel

Romantic Hotel

Hotel near Nightlife Spots

Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

Accessible Hotel

Hotel with Gym

5-Star Hotel

Room Types
Standard Double Room With urban views and ceiling to floor windows, this standard room features free WiFi, flat-screen TV, Hypnos double bed and a walk-in shower. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities.

Superior Double Room Stylish and spacious, this room features free WiFi, flat-screen TV, Hypnos double bed and a walk-in shower. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities.

Deluxe Double Room Offering a seating area,this spacious room features free WiFi, flat-screen TV and Hypnos double bed. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities. Some also have a bathtub.

Junior Suite Very spacious, luxurious rooms. This room also features features free WiFi, flat-screen TV and Hypnos double bed. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities. The Junior Suite offers an urban view, a partial river view, or a hot tub. Please specify your preference when making the booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Premium Deluxe Double Room Large rooms with views of the River Thames, this room features a media hub, free WiFi, Hypnos double bed and flat-screen TV. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities. Interconnecting room is available by prior request and subject to availability.

Emperor Suite With full views over the River Thames, this suite features a Hot tub, Hypnos double bed, 55-inch flat-screen TV and a sitting area. Other facilities include air-conditioning, minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities.

Guest Reviews
7.6
Good
Location
Rafayel Hotel & Spa boasts a fantastic location right on the bank of the River Thames, offering beautiful views and pleasant surroundings. It is well-situated for those attending events or accessing attractions in Battersea, Chelsea and even further afield like Wimbledon. The proximity to Clapham Junction and various bus stops makes it easy to get around the city, though the distance from the nearest underground station can be a downside for some.

The area around the hotel is ideal for leisure activities such as walking, jogging and cycling along the river. The quiet neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of central London, which is just a short bus ride away. Many guests appreciated the convenience of public transportation right outside the hotel, facilitating easy access to the city center and key locations like Victoria Station.

For those arriving by car, the hotel provides secure parking, which is a significant advantage. The location also features a variety of nearby shops, bars and restaurants, making it a convenient choice for dining and entertainment. Whether for business appointments or attending specific events, the hotel's setting allows for a comfortable and accessible stay.

Overall, Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a well-connected and scenic location that caters well to guests looking for a quiet yet accessible place to stay in London.

Breakfast
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a breakfast experience that varies widely according to guest reviews. Many guests appreciated the breakfast, describing it as very good, nice and with a good selection of both sweet and savory options. The full English breakfast received particular praise, as did the reasonably priced menu and the complete buffet selection. Some found the breakfast delicious and superb, mentioning that the staff were friendly and attentive. Highlights included the variety of options available, the inclusion of additional items like pancakes and waffles and the convenience of in-room breakfast services.

However, there were also significant critiques. Several guests noted that the breakfast quality did not meet 5-star standards, calling it plain, average or even the worst ever experienced. Issues such as cold food, overcooked items and a lack of freshness were mentioned. Some criticized the breakfast as underwhelming with little variety, causing disappointment after several days. Service issues were also pointed out, including long waits for specific items like croissants and missing items in room service orders. The inconsistency in breakfast experience suggests that while some guests found it delightful and satisfying, others saw room for improvement in both service and food quality.

Dinner
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a dining experience praised for its excellent food and attentive staff. Many guests found the restaurant superb, enjoying good meals at reasonable prices, especially given the prime location by the Thames. A standout feature was the consistently praised staff, who were described as lovely and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. Breakfast options also received commendation for their variety and quality.

Some guests highlighted specific dishes, such as the divine Salmon and veggies and noted that returning for multiple nights due to the enjoyable food. Room service meals were positively mentioned for their quality and sensible pricing.

However, experiences weren't uniformly positive. A few diners felt the menu options were limited and the food was somewhat plain, albeit tasty. Some reviews pointed out that certain meals, like the Caesar salad, were not up to standard and a few guests noted that food and drink prices seemed high for the quantity served.

Overall, the dining at Rafayel Hotel & Spa generally provided good value for money with excellent service, although some variability in quality and pricing was noted.

Rooms
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers rooms that are consistently praised for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Guests repeatedly highlight the large size of the rooms and bathrooms, describing them as very well-equipped and featuring modern amenities. Many reviews specifically mention the stunning views from the rooms, especially those overlooking the river, providing a beautiful backdrop for their stay.

The beds are noted to be comfortable and the overall room decor is appreciated for being stylish and tasteful. Numerous reviews point out the well-maintained and luxurious feel of the rooms with some guests mentioning the added bonus of having a jacuzzi in the bathroom. Additionally, rooms are described as airy and cozy, providing a relaxing environment after a day out in the city.

While the positive feedback dominates, there are a few mentions of minor issues such as basic facilities in some rooms and occasional noise from the street. However, these do not significantly detract from the overall high satisfaction with the room quality.

In summary, Rafayel Hotel & Spa stands out for offering large, clean and comfortable rooms with excellent views and modern amenities, making it a great value for money option in London.

Beds
The beds at Rafayel Hotel & Spa generally receive high praise from guests for their comfort and size. Many reviews highlight that the beds are very comfortable with some guests describing them as amazing or amazingly comfy. King-size and generously large beds are mentioned frequently, providing a spacious and luxurious sleep experience. Guests often compliment the soft mattresses and super comfortable sheets, which contribute to a good night's rest.

However, there are a few mixed opinions. While some guests describe the beds as cozy and comfortable, others note that the pillows can be flat, hard or uncomfortable. A few reviews mention issues such as springs digging into backs and beds being too soft or small, affecting the overall comfort for some visitors.

Despite these occasional drawbacks, the majority of guests seem to enjoy a restful sleep at Rafayel Hotel & Spa, often waking up refreshed and appreciative of the high-quality bedding and spacious sleeping arrangements.

Cleanliness
Rafayel Hotel & Spa receives a wealth of glowing reviews for its cleanliness. Guests frequently highlight the spacious and stunning rooms, characterized by large, well-lit bathrooms and a high standard of cleanliness. The rooms are described as incredibly clean, comfortable and well-equipped, often felt as cozy and fresh. The impeccable cleaning standards extend to the spa, which is also noted for its cleanliness.

The property itself is remarked upon as being clean and comfortable with excellent staff who are both helpful and friendly. Despite a few isolated incidents where guests noticed oversights in room cleaning or found certain facilities not up to par, the general consensus points towards an overall clean environment.

The hotel's cleanliness is complemented by good parking facilities and a pleasant surrounding area with parks close by. For travelers seeking clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations with excellent service, Rafayel Hotel & Spa generally meets expectations.

Staff
Rafayel Hotel & Spa has garnered a reputation for its exceptionally polite and welcoming staff, who ensure guests feel comfortable and valued throughout their stay. Visitors consistently highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the team with special mentions for how accommodating and attentive they are, whether at reception or in the restaurant. The owner also makes an effort to greet guests personally, adding a personalized touch to the experience.

The staff receive high praise for their professionalism and efficiency, often going above and beyond to meet guests' expectations and handle requests promptly. Specific members, like Sam and Sara, are noted for their great attitudes and helpful advice, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellent customer service.

Restaurant staff, including those working breakfast shifts, are described as engaging and attentive, contributing to a relaxing atmosphere that many guests appreciate. Help with practical tasks, such as organizing transportation or assisting with luggage, showcases the helpful nature of the personnel.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are occasional mentions of unprofessional or rude behavior from some staff members, particularly at reception. However, these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the rule with the majority of reviews applauding the staff for their courtesy and warmth.

In summary, the staff at Rafayel Hotel & Spa are largely praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and dedication to providing a welcoming environment, ensuring a pleasant stay for most guests.

Wi-Fi
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers free Wi-Fi to its guests, which has received mixed feedback. Some guests have found the internet to be efficient, while others have noted that the Wi-Fi speed could be better and the connection can be unreliable. The Wi-Fi being patchy and slow has been a concern for several visitors with some even describing it as completely useless or poor. Despite these challenges, the availability of free Wi-Fi is a positive aspect. However, it appears that improvements to the stability and speed of the Wi-Fi could enhance the overall guest experience.

Spa
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a range of spa and gym facilities that have garnered mixed reviews from guests. Many appreciated the cleanliness of the spa and found the treatment rooms to be of a high standard. The availability of both saunas and a gym were noted as positive features and the overall experience was described by some as luxurious and enjoyable. The spa facilities, including the gym and jacuzzi, were easily accessible and contributed to an overall pleasant stay.

However, there are several aspects that guests felt could use improvement. The spa's closing time at 7pm was a common point of contention with some wishing it stayed open later. The hot tub was reportedly broken during some stays and there were mentions of the spa not being properly cleaned or fully staffed at all times. Additionally, some guests found the spa facilities to be minimal and in need of enhancement, comparing it unfavorably to other hotel chains.

Though the spa was considered small by some, it still provided a lovely break and a luxurious feel for others. Overall, while the spa at Rafayel Hotel & Spa has its merits, there are areas that could benefit from further attention to meet guest expectations fully.

Gym
Rafayel Hotel & Spa features a well-equipped gym and a luxurious spa, providing a combination of fitness and relaxation options. Guests appreciated the natural light and well-maintained rooms, along with the spacious and useful gym facilities. The spa includes amenities such as a hot tub and jacuzzi, enhancing the overall wellness experience. While some reviews noted that the gym and spa areas are rather small and in need of refurbishment, many visitors still found the gym facilities satisfactory and the availability of a gym and spa a notable perk. However, occasional unavailability of the spa and gym services was mentioned, indicating an area for improvement. Despite these drawbacks, the hotel offers both gym and spa access free of charge, making it a good choice for those seeking fitness and leisure during their stay.

Parking
The Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a range of parking options that cater to guests' needs. A key feature praised by many is the secure, underground on-site parking, highlighted as a significant convenience. The cost of parking is generally seen as reasonable, though some guests found the £20 per night fee to be on the higher side. Despite the expense, many appreciated the guaranteed parking space and the ample spots available in the large car park, making it easy to find a place to park.

Guests noted the easy access to parking areas and found the underground parking facilities to be very good with the added security being a bonus. Some reviews mentioned the signage from the basement parking could be clearer and the need for some refurbishment was noted in specific areas.

Overall, the hotel's parking facilities provide guests with peace of mind and accessibility, making it a valuable amenity during their stay.

Family
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a family-friendly environment, making it a good spot for small families. Guests appreciate the family room configurations, which are spacious enough for family stays. Visitors with children mentioned their daughter and granddaughter loved their time at the hotel. The owner is noted for personally engaging with guests, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While there were mentions of a "no instant family room", the overall accommodation options remain suitable for family travel with amenities such as a second bedroom with an Ascot provided.

5 Star
Rafayel Hotel & Spa has an admirable ambition for excellence with a charming, grand yet modest ambiance. The facilities exude a positive air, contributing to an overall welcoming environment. However, there appears to be a significant gap between its advertised five-star rating and the experiences reported by guests.

Many guests found this establishment comparable to a three-star hotel, citing several areas where it fell short of five-star expectations. The breakfast and restaurant services did not meet the standards typically associated with luxury hotels. Issues such as inconsistent service quality, lack of attention to detail and organization flaws were commonly noted.

The interior quality and the spa facilities also received criticism with numerous guests suggesting that a facelift is required for the spa to truly embody its name. Despite its efforts, the general consensus indicated that the hotel does not reach the opulence and refinement expected of a five-star property.

Overall, while Rafayel Hotel & Spa has certain attributes that add to its charm, such as its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to improvement, it currently aligns more closely with a three-star experience rather than the luxurious haven it markets itself to be.

Accessible
Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers commendable accessibility features for guests with disabilities. The hotel ensures that essential amenities such as the spa and wellness centre are accessible, providing a seamless experience for all visitors. Public areas, including the reception, are easily navigable, reflecting the hotel's commitment to accommodating guests with mobility challenges. Rooms designed for disabled persons are available, enhancing the overall stay with appropriate facilities. The hotel's general accessibility is well-regarded with even paratransit options available for additional convenience. Rafayel Hotel & Spa prioritizes accessibility, making it a reliable option for guests with specific needs.

Luxury
The Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious experience with comfortable and elegant accommodations, as reflected in guest reviews. Many guests describe their stay as luxurious, highlighting the nice and well-appointed rooms that contribute to a glamorous stay. However, some reviews express that the hotel's appearance and decor are outdated and do not meet the expectations of a true five-star establishment, mentioning issues such as peeling on windows.

Despite this, the service at the hotel receives positive remarks with many describing it as lovely and good. However, there are concerns about whether the quality and service justify the five-star prices, indicating a disparity between the luxury that guests experience and the luxury that they expect. While the hotel does provide some extras, there is a sentiment that it does not fully live up to its high-quality claims. Overall, the Rafayel Hotel & Spa offers a pleasant and comfortable stay with a touch of luxury, albeit with some areas that could use improvement to fully meet five-star standards.


No, Rafayel Hotel & Spa doesn't have any pool.

Yes, a spa is available at Rafayel Hotel & Spa. For more information, read the answers to the Spa questionnaire

Yes, Rafayel Hotel & Spa welcomes dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Rafayel Hotel & Spa.

Yes, Rafayel Hotel & Spa has a gym.

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