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From The Times

August 14, 2004

The Strand Palace Hotel, London WC2

Good-value choice for theatregoers and even the Bolshoi have stayed, finds Tom Chesshyre

First impressions

Great location — for £95 I’m staying just across the road from the Savoy. OK, so the reception — burgundy and grey patterned carpet, office-style black leather sofas and a tired-looking sports bar — isn’t exactly Savoy standard, but it’s cheery and the West End is right there on the doorstep.

Why it’s special

It’s a 783-room West End institution in a proud grey, nine-storey Art Deco building (with four giant orange lanterns on the façade) dating from 1908. Unfortunately, most of the interior was ripped out in the Sixties, but a recent refurb has spruced it up, making it a good-value theatre choice.

Hitting the sack

Not quite Savoy standard, but the “Club” rooms have been refitted with a fresh, modern look (lime-green sofas, cream walls). Comfortable beds. No air conditioning, but each room has a large fan. Ask for a back room to avoid the traffic noise.

Sampling the fare

Brasserie Johnstons serves steaks, pizzas and salads — hearty fare and reasonably priced for the West End (£7.65 for a large pizza).

Added attractions

Covent Garden is near by. The Mask Bar is open to guests until 2am. The lower ground floor has a wonderful Art Deco staircase.

Star quality

The Bolshoi Ballet recently stayed. It’s also known for once being a “discreet” meeting place for thespians.

Bottom line

Club rooms from £95.

What we think

Good value, great spot. Need to know Strand Palace (020-7836 8080, www.strandpalacehotel.co.uk), 372 Strand, London WC2.

Strand Palace is a bit more expensive - Club Rooms are more lik
e £140.00 Sometimes only two nights together can be booked. Usually breakfast is not included. Average price of an ordinary single is around £90 without breakfast. The upside is the staff are great, unlike many hotels in London.

Geraldine Taylor, Sherborne, Dorset

It was the St, Petersburg City ballet (all juniors) and not the Bolshoi who stayed at the Strand. They were on at the Coleseum.

Geraldine Taylor, Sherborne, Dorset