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I stayed at the hotel where the Spice Girls’ Wannabe video was filmed
This luxury hotel boasts iconic status, but what is it truly like to experience a night there? Helen Wilson-Beevers provides an in-depth check-in review from Thursday 22 January 2026.
Location and First Impressions
As its name implies, this central London hotel is directly attached to St Pancras station, placing it a mere two-minute walk from King’s Cross and offering superb access to rail and Tube connections. For those seeking a change of scenery, the eclectic canalside shopping destination Coal Drop’s Yard is just a 10-minute stroll away. The front entrance is set back from Euston Road, creating a welcome sense of removal from the urban hustle and bustle.
The Vibe and Historical Charm
The hotel dates back to 1873, having been closed from 1935 before reopening in 2011 following St Pancras station’s extensive refurbishment. This rich history is intricately woven into the hotel’s design, with original features such as Gothic-era pointed arch windows, wood panelling, and marble columns. These are complemented by modern touches like flashes of colour, pattern, and decorative light fittings, fostering a sense of grandeur without stuffiness. The buzzing atmosphere is further enhanced by the sweeping grand staircase, famously featured in the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” music video, adding a layer of pop culture glamour to the heritage setting.
Service Excellence
Service at the hotel is attentive yet unobtrusive. Upon arrival on a stormy night after a long commute, a staff member promptly ushered me in from the rain, took my bag, and highlighted interesting features while escorting me to my room. The team demonstrated helpfulness, such as assisting a guest in searching for a lost umbrella and offering to take photos for a family. While it took a moment to catch a server’s attention in the bar during a busy period, drinks arrived quickly thereafter. Service during dinner and breakfast was consistently efficient and discreet.
Accommodation Details
The hotel offers 207 rooms and 38 suites, including king, loft, and family options. I stayed in a deluxe king bedroom, which provided ample space for two friends to prepare for dinner together. The room featured a modern smartness, with amenities such as USB plugs, a Nespresso machine, and L’Occitane toiletries. A luxurious walk-in shower and a large window offering natural light and views of the surrounding buildings added to the comfort. Other rooms include bath tubs for those preferring a soak.
Dining and Drinking Experiences
The hotel houses two restaurants, The Hansom and Booking Office 1869, both doubling as stylish bar areas. We dined at Booking Office 1869 after enjoying cocktails at The Hansom, a central hub that transitions seamlessly from a smart daytime spot to an elegant evening venue. The menu caters to various dietary needs, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available. Our meal included marinated heritage beetroot, maple-cured pork chop, and black forest chocolate roulade, accompanied by live saxophone music for added ambiance. Breakfast at Booking Office 1869 offered a choice of one cold and one hot plate, with options like exotic fruit salad, chia pudding, shakshuka, pancakes, and a full English, alongside fresh juice, tea, and coffee.
Facilities and Additional Features
The spa and pool area, complete with a steam room, sauna, and hydro loungers, showcases Victorian architectural features such as colourful tiling in rich hues. Although the pool is small, it provides a quaint and opulent relaxation space, and my guest enjoyed an invigorating massage in one of the six treatment rooms. A fitness centre equipped with high-tech Technogym equipment is also available. The hotel is accessible with lifts and ramps throughout, step-free access to public spaces, and hearing and mobility accessible rooms. Pets are welcome for a fee of £100 per night, with a maximum weight of 15 kg per room, though guide dogs are exempt. Check-in is at 3pm, with check-out at midday, and family-friendly options include dedicated pool times for children.
Overall Assessment
Best thing: Its prime proximity to Kings Cross and St Pancras stations, unique historical features, and vibrant atmosphere.
Perfect for: A grown-up getaway combining spa relaxation with sociable evenings of dining and cocktails.
Not right for: Those seeking a no-frills budget break.
Instagram from: The famous Grand Staircase or Booking Office 1869, both offering showstopping backdrops.
Address: St. Pancras London Autograph Collection hotel, Euston Road, London, England, United Kingdom, NW1 2AR. Phone: 020 7841 3540. Website: marriott.com.
Helen was a guest of St Pancras London Autograph Collection hotel.
