Nestled in the bustling heart of Westminster, the Portico Hotel stands as a testament to Victorian charm blended with modern convenience. This grand old dame has been welcoming guests for over 150 years, offering a prime spot for exploring London’s top sights.
We found the rooms comfortable and well-equipped, with free Wi-Fi that actually works. The on-site restaurant serves up decent fare, saving you the trouble of hunting for a meal after a long day of sightseeing.
However, light sleepers might find the street noise bothersome, even with the windows closed. Plus, some rooms feel a bit snug, especially if you’re traveling with more than one suitcase.
The Portico is ideal for history buffs who appreciate period architecture and travelers who want to be within walking distance of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Thames.
It’s also a solid choice for business visitors attending events in central London.
Key Points
- The Portico Hotel is a historic Victorian-style hotel located in central London, 2,953 feet from Victoria Station and Gatwick Express.
- The hotel is well-rated for its location, with nearby shops, pubs, and restaurants, and is less than a mile from major attractions.
- Guests have praised the hotel’s staff, well-maintained facilities, and cleanliness, though there have been some issues with the reliability of the WiFi.
- The hotel offers a range of amenities, including complimentary WiFi, a bar, daily housekeeping, and various breakfast options.
- The hotel has business services, family-friendly rooms, and a focus on accessibility, with 24-hour security and other safety features.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Portico Hotel is a Victorian house that was built in 1859 and combines traditional style with modern comforts.
It’s located at 30 St. Georges Drive in Victoria, Westminster Borough, London, just 2,953 feet from London Victoria Station and the Gatwick Express airport train service.
The hotel scores an excellent 8.9 for location and is less than a mile from major attractions like Buckingham Palace, Tate Britain, and the Houses of Parliament.
Guests can find nearby shops, pubs, and restaurants, making this an ideal spot for sightseeing.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Based on the reviews, guests have given The Portico Hotel an overall rating of 7.8 out of 10 across 5,417 reviews.
The hotel’s strengths include:
- Highly rated staff with an 8.6 score
- Well-maintained facilities earning a 7.8 rating
- Clean rooms and public areas with an 8.4 cleanliness score
- Comfortable beds and good shower quality, also scoring 8.4
- Excellent location near major sights and transportation, rated 8.9
While the hotel provides good value for money at 7.9, guests have noted some areas for improvement, such as the reliability of the free WiFi.
Hotel Amenities and Services
Among the popular amenities offered by The Portico Hotel are complimentary WiFi, family-friendly rooms, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can also enjoy a bar on-site, daily housekeeping, baggage storage, and various breakfast options including continental, vegan, and gluten-free. The hotel’s rooms feature TVs, telephones, hairdryers, and tea/coffee facilities. For business travelers, The Portico provides fax/photocopying services and meeting/banquet facilities. Safety features include fire extinguishers, CCTV, smoke alarms, key card access, and 24-hour security.
| Amenities | Services | Room Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free WiFi | 24-hour front desk | TVs |
| Family rooms | Laundry | Telephones |
| Non-smoking rooms | Baggage storage | Hairdryers |
| Bar | Breakfast options | Tea/coffee facilities |
Room Features and Facilities
Guests can look forward to cozy in-room amenities at The Portico Hotel.
Each guest room features:
- Flat-screen TVs for entertainment
- Direct-dial telephones for convenient communication
- Hairdryers for a polished look
- Tea and coffee making facilities for a refreshing pick-me-up
- A comfortable bed and plush linens for a good night’s sleep
These thoughtful touches, combined with the hotel’s Victorian charm and modern comforts, create a welcoming home base for travelers exploring the sights of London.
Business and Safety Offerings
The Portico Hotel offers a range of business services, including fax/photocopying facilities and meeting/banquet rooms, catering to the needs of corporate travelers.
For added safety, the hotel features fire extinguishers, CCTV, smoke alarms, key card access, and 24-hour security. Guests can rest assured their belongings are secure during their stay.
The hotel also welcomes families, with child-friendly amenities like family rooms.
Accessibility is a priority, with staff available to assist guests with luggage.
Check-in, Checkout, and Policies
Check-in at The Portico Hotel is from 1:30 PM, and guests must check out by 10:30 AM.
Upon arrival, guests will need to provide a photo ID and a credit card for incidentals. A refundable damage deposit of £60 (about $78) is also required.
The hotel has varying cancellation and prepayment policies depending on the room type. Guests must be at least 18 years old to check-in, and pets aren’t allowed.
Groups booking more than 6 rooms may incur additional fees.
- Photo ID and credit card required at check-in
- £60 damage deposit required, refundable within 7 days
- Minimum check-in age: 18
- No pets allowed
- Groups over 6 rooms may incur additional fees
Accessibility and Transportation
No elevator is available at The Portico Hotel, but the staff assists guests with their luggage.
The hotel is an 8-minute walk from Victoria Station, providing convenient access to public transportation. Guests can easily reach major attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye from the hotel’s location.
The quiet environment and safe area were praised by past visitors. While the hotel lacks an elevator, its accessibility via public transit and proximity to top sights make it a suitable choice for many travelers.
The Portico Hotel’s central positioning allows guests to explore London’s iconic landmarks with ease.
Nearby Attractions and Convenience
Conveniently, The Portico Hotel is located less than a mile from several of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Guests can easily visit:
- Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Her Majesty The Queen
- Tate Britain, a prestigious art museum housing a vast collection of British art
- The Houses of Parliament, home to the UK’s legislative bodies
- Westminster Abbey, a famous Gothic abbey church dating back to the 10th century
- The London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views across the city
On top of that, the hotel is just a short 8-minute walk from Victoria Station, providing convenient access to public transportation and connections to Gatwick Airport.
Common Questions
What Is the Hotel’s Cancellation Policy?
The cancellation policy varies by accommodation type. Guests must check the specific policy for their booking, as some may require full or partial payment for cancellations or changes depending on the reservation details.
Is There a Restaurant or Bar On-Site?
Yes, there is a bar on-site at the hotel. The hotel description states that popular amenities include a bar, allowing guests to enjoy drinks without having to leave the premises.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The hotel doesn’t offer any standard discounts or packages, but guests can check their website or contact the property directly to inquire about any special offers or deals that may be available.
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
The hotel offers baggage storage for guests before check-in and after check-out. Guests can leave their luggage with the friendly staff at the 24-hour front desk for convenience and peace of mind during their stay.
What Are the Payment Methods Accepted at the Hotel?
The hotel accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Guests can also pay with cash, debit cards, and contactless payments like Apple Pay upon check-in.
The Last Word
After our delightful stay at The Portico Hotel, we can’t help but sing its praises! This charming Victorian gem nestled in Westminster stole our hearts with its impeccable facilities, warm staff, and convenient amenities. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, this hotel hits all the right notes. We found ourselves perfectly positioned to explore London’s iconic landmarks, with Buckingham Palace and the London Eye just a stone’s throw away. Ready to experience the Portico’s magic for yourself? Hit the button below to book through our trusted partner, Booking.com. We always use them for their competitive prices and stellar service, and we think you’ll love them too!