The hype
Stunning views and great location, but let down by slow lifts and hit-or-miss housekeeping.
Novotel London Canary Wharf
$190-280/ night
Book this if You want the best skyline views in East London and don't mind sacrificing some warmth for industrial-chic efficiency.
Why People Love It
- Bōkan 37/38/39: The rooftop bar/restaurant is a destination in itself
- Floor-to-ceiling windows in most rooms with epic London views
- Elizabeth Line connectivity makes getting to central London a breeze
Quick Take: A vertical glass factory that trades soul for spectacular views and a rooftop bar that outshines the hotel itself.
Reviewed by @riarockyexplores: I stayed in the Executive Suite and it’s a total vibe. The smart privacy glass is so cool, and having the pool to myself at night felt like pure luxury. The views are stunning even from the 8th floor—definitely add this to your London bucket list!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Executive' upgrade is worth it solely for the higher floor views, not the room size.
- You're a business traveler who needs the Elizabeth Line
- You live for a rooftop sunset cocktail
- You prefer modern, minimalist design over cozy carpets
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report missed spots and dust, while others find it spotless. Staff turnover seems high.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, but persistent reports of a 'sewage' or 'drain' smell in some units.
- Maintenance: Modern but showing wear. Scuffed hallways and slow elevators are the main gripes.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel grade. Clean, but not memorable. Towels can run out at the pool.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like signature Novotel scent; hallways can smell like food or dust; some bathrooms have drain issues.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise due to heavy doors
- Nearby construction projects (drilling/machinery)
- Elevator dings if near the central core
Before you book
Good to know
- Luggage storage is available but can be chaotic at peak times.
- Breakfast is ~£25/person; you can get better coffee and food at the mall nearby for half the price.
- The hotel is cashless—bring your cards.
What to pack
- Swim cap (sometimes enforced in the pool)
- Earplugs (for the construction noise)
- Smart-casual outfit for Bōkan (dress code enforced)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Executive Rooms on floors 30-35 (unbeatable views)
- Corner rooms for dual-aspect vistas
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms ending in -01 or -02 (often closest to the noisy elevator bank)
- Lower floors (views are blocked by adjacent office towers)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room on the highest possible floor (30+), specifically asking for a corner unit away from the elevator bank to minimize hallway noise. A view of the City/Shard side is preferred over the river side if available.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool worth bringing a swimsuit for?
Only if you go at 6 AM. Otherwise, it's a small, crowded tub often dominated by kids.
Can I park at the hotel?
No. You have to park at a nearby public garage (e.g., Canary Wharf car parks) for about £25/day.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not. It costs around £25 per person and reviews are mixed—often cold plates and queues.
How bad are the elevators really?
Bad. The system is under-capacity for 39 floors. Allow 15 minutes extra to get out of the building.
Is it good for families?
Kids stay free, which is a plus, but the room footprint is tight for more than two people.
Does the hotel have a view of the fireworks?
Yes, if you book a City-facing room on a high floor, but Bōkan takes the prime viewing spots.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk 5 mins to 'The Breakfast Club' or 'Dishoom' for a far better meal.
- ✨
Use the Bōkan elevator (separate entrance) if the main hotel lifts are gridlocked—sometimes it's faster to go up to go down.
- ✨
Request a 'City View' specifically; 'River View' can sometimes just mean looking at the O2 and a lot of cranes.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'sewage smell' in bathrooms appears in multiple reviews—run the shower for 5 mins upon entry.
💡Room service has a £5 'tray charge' on top of the menu price.
💡The windows do not open, so fresh air is non-existent.
💡Housekeeping has been known to enter despite 'Do Not Disturb' signs.
💡The gym is often unmanned and machines can be out of order for weeks.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Novotel London Canary Wharf is located and what's nearby.