Marius Pantea
If you’re looking for a hotel that makes catching an early flight painless, Novotel London Stansted Airport is a solid choice. It’s got the essentials down—clean rooms, friendly staff, and a location that’s almost as close to the runway as your boarding gate. Here's what I found after a recent stay.
Location-wise, it’s tough to beat. It’s a quick 10-minute shuttle ride to the airport, so even if you’re dragging yourself out of bed for a 6 a.m. flight, you won’t feel too far removed from the comfort of your room. The shuttle is efficient, with rides running every 30 minutes. Just be aware there’s a small charge for it, so it’s not entirely free.
Room Quality: Modern Comforts, Quiet Night's Sleep. The rooms are comfortable and surprisingly spacious for an airport hotel. I was impressed with the modern decor—think understated but stylish with muted colors, sleek furniture, and good lighting. The bed was cozy, the linens crisp, and noise from the airport was minimal (a relief for light sleepers). Each room also has a large desk, great for getting a bit of last-minute work done before a flight.
A minor downside? The bathrooms could use a refresh. While clean, they feel a bit dated compared to the rest of the room. The water pressure was also on the lighter side, so if you’re a fan of a robust shower, it might feel a tad underwhelming.
The in-house restaurant exceeded my expectations, offering a nice variety of dishes that cater to various dietary needs—whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just in the mood for something hearty. The breakfast buffet had everything from full English staples to healthier options like yogurt and fruit.
Dinner was a treat too. I tried the burger, which was well-cooked and nicely seasoned. The only snag is that prices are a bit on the high side for what you’re getting, but you’re paying for the convenience of a good meal without needing to leave the hotel.
For business travelers, the hotel ticks a lot of boxes. There’s a good-size meeting space, free Wi-Fi, and quiet nooks in the lobby for more private work. There’s even a small fitness center with basic equipment, which is a nice touch if you want to squeeze in a workout before a long flight.
The staff here deserve a shout-out. They’re friendly, quick to help with any questions, and clearly used to the hustle of airport guests. Check-in and check-out were smooth, and I appreciated the staff’s efficiency given the steady stream of travelers coming through.
Final Thoughts: Great for a Stopover with Room to Improve
Overall, Novotel London Stansted Airport does a fantastic job balancing comfort and convenience, and it’s a go-to option if you’re flying out of Stansted. It’s not exactly a destination hotel, but it doesn’t try to be. For a comfortable stopover with friendly service, it’s hard to go wrong here. If they spruce up the bathrooms and adjust some of the meal prices, it’d be close to perfect.
Would I stay again? Definitely. It’s exactly what you want for a short, restful stay before or after a flight, with just a few tweaks needed to make it exceptional.
Accommodating Gluten-Free