The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. I stayed at the hotel where the Spice Girls' Wannabe video was filmed. This luxury hotel has iconic status, but what's it like to stay there? Helen Wilson-Beevers checks in.
Location and Vibe
As the name suggests, this central London hotel is attached to St Pancras station, making it a two-minute walk from King's Cross and ideally placed for rail and Tube connections. For a change of scenery, eclectic canalside shopping spot Coal Drops Yard is a 10-minute walk away. The front entrance is set back from Euston Road, creating a sense of removal from the hustle and bustle.
The hotel dates from 1873, although it was closed from 1935 before reopening in 2011 after St Pancras station's extensive refurbishment. This history is woven through the hotel's design features, such as the Booking Office 1869 restaurant, which was once a ticket hall during the hotel's closure. Original features like Gothic-era pointed arch windows, wood panelling, and marble columns are brought into the modern day with flashes of colour and pattern, along with decorative light fittings.
This blend creates a sense of grandeur without stuffiness, instead fostering a buzzing atmosphere. The combination of heritage and glamour is further highlighted by the sweeping grand staircase, which famously featured in the Spice Girls' 'Wannabe' music video.
Service and Accommodation
Service is attentive without feeling intrusive. Upon arrival on a stormy night after a long commute, a member of staff ushered me in from the rain, took my bag, and highlighted interesting features while showing me to my room. The team also assisted guests with lost items and photo-taking. While it took a moment to catch a server's attention in the bar during a busy period, drinks arrived quickly thereafter. Service at dinner and breakfast was equally efficient and unobtrusive.
There are 207 rooms and 38 suites at the hotel, including king, loft, and family options. I stayed in a deluxe king bedroom, which was spacious enough for two friends to mill around while getting ready for dinner. The room had a modern smartness compared to the grand public areas, with amenities like USB plugs, a Nespresso machine, and L'Occitane toiletries. My room featured a luxurious walk-in shower, though others have bath tubs, and a large window offered natural light and views of the buildings below.
Dining and Facilities
The Hansom and Booking Office 1869 are the hotel's two restaurants, doubling as stylish bar areas. We dined at Booking Office 1869 after starting with cocktails at The Hansom, a central hub that transitions from smart daytime to elegant evening spot. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available; we enjoyed marinated heritage beetroot, maple-cured pork chop, and black forest chocolate roulade, with live saxophone music adding to the evening's fun.
For breakfast, we returned to Booking Office 1869, where you can choose one cold and one hot plate alongside fresh juice, tea, and coffee. Options include exotic fruit salad, chia pudding, shakshuka, pancakes, and a full English.
The spa and pool area features Victorian architectural details like colourful tiling in rich hues. While the pool is small, it offers a quaint and opulent relaxation space, and my guest enjoyed an invigorating massage in one of the six treatment rooms. There's also a fitness centre with high-tech equipment from brands like Technogym.
Accessibility and Policies
Lifts and ramps are available throughout, with step-free access to public spaces including restaurants and bars. Hearing and mobility accessible rooms are offered. Pets are welcome for a fee of £100 per night, with one per room and a maximum weight of 15 kg; guide dogs are exempt. Check-in is at 3pm and check-out at midday. The hotel is family-friendly, with dedicated pool times for children and family rooms available.
Overall Experience
Best thing: Its proximity to King's 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.
