The hype
Guests love the location and the vibe, but often complain about the slow elevators and busy breakfast service.
The Cumberland London
$180-300/ night
Book this if You want a high-energy, music-themed base right at Marble Arch where you can grab a guitar in your room before hitting Oxford Street.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location right next to Marble Arch tube and Hyde Park
- The 'Backstage' executive lounge is a genuine hidden speakeasy with free drinks
- Surprisingly good soundproofing despite the busy intersection and in-room electric guitars
Quick Take: It’s a massive, busy machine that still thinks it's the Hard Rock Hotel, but the location and soundproofing save the day.
Reviewed by @liveuptohername: I felt like a total rockstar here! The personalized message on my mirror was such a sweet touch, and jamming on the guitar in my room before heading down to the live band made this the coolest London stay I've ever had. You have to see the lobby art!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'park view' rooms often just look at the busy road with the park in the background, so manage your expectations.
- You're a music history buff (Jimi Hendrix lived/died here)
- You want to be steps away from Primark and Selfridges
- You enjoy a lively, buzzing lobby atmosphere rather than a quiet retreat
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.2
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some guests report 'rushed' cleaning with missed dust.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but watch out for slow-draining showers and worn grout in older bathrooms.
- Maintenance: Good overall, but high traffic means some hallway carpets and elevator buttons show wear.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and white, standard hotel quality. No major complaints about stains.
- Odors & scents: Lobby is heavily scented; rooms are generally fresh, though some older reviews mention mustiness in carpets.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway doors slamming
- Elevator dings if you are close to the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Backstage' lounge is hidden behind a secret door near reception — if you book an Executive room, make sure you get the code/access.
- Breakfast is a massive buffet operation; go before 8:30 AM to avoid the zoo.
- Luggage storage is available with the concierge, but can be busy.
What to pack
- Earplugs (just in case of hallway noise)
- A portable steamer (irons are provided but can be hit-or-miss in quality)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Executive King for access to the 'Backstage' lounge (free drinks/snacks)
- Gold King Park View for the best natural light and glimpses of Hyde Park
Rooms to avoid
- Classic Single (too small for most)
- Rooms near the elevator banks (high foot traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (7th or 8th) facing away from the main elevator bank to minimize hallway noise. If available, a room in the 'Gold' wing offers better views.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No, there is no swimming pool. There is a gym, but for a swim, you're out of luck.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed for a £100 fee per stay. They even have a 'paw'rridge' menu.
How much is breakfast?
Buffet breakfast is approximately £21.50 per person if not included in your rate.
Is there parking?
No on-site parking. The nearest is Q-Park Marble Arch, which costs around £42-£60 per 24 hours.
What is the 'Backstage' lounge?
It's an executive lounge for VIP/Executive room guests, offering free soft drinks, snacks, and evening alcohol in a speakeasy setting.
Does it still feel like the Hard Rock Hotel?
Yes, the music theme is still very present, with guitars in rooms and rock memorabilia in the lobby.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask to see the Jimi Hendrix suite or at least the plaque; he gave his last interview here.
- ✨
The 'SOUND' bar often has live music, which is great if you're there, but ask for a room on a higher floor to avoid the bass.
- ✨
You can request a record player and vinyl for your room if it's not already there.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hotel is listed as the 'usual address' on Jimi Hendrix's death certificate.
💡The 'Backstage' lounge entrance is a hidden door that looks like a mirror or wall panel.
💡The lobby scent is a distinct, sweet 'rock star' perfume that some love and others find overpowering.
💡The elevators are 'smart' (you pick your floor outside), which confuses first-time guests constantly.
💡There is a robot waiter in the SOUND Cafe that delivers food to tables.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Cumberland London is located and what's nearby.