The majestic light of London’s iconic shard twinkles in the panoramic windows as I recline on the plush sofa, letting the cool night air drift in from the open balcony door. Am I in an extortionately expensive 5 star London hotel? No. I’m actually somewhere that feels more like a home than a hotel – Marlin Apartments.
What are Marlin Apartments?
This gem of a find consists of over 700 four-star serviced apartments across six locations in London. They’re homely and self-serviced, so are perfect whether you’re visiting the capital on a business trip or simply want to treat your family to a unique getaway.
Why makes Marlin Apartments different from a hotel?
They’re a home away from home – As soon as I walked into my apartment, I didn’t feel I was entering a bland, sterile room as is the case in so many hotels. The apartments are cosy, homely and spacious. In fact, Marlin offers three times the space of a standard hotel room at an often much lower price. This spaciousness allows for separate bedrooms and living space, meaning you’re free to relax and enjoy a glass of wine even if your companions are calling it a night!
They’re fully kitted out – In addition, the full-sized kitchen and included appliances mean you’re free to comfort yourself with a cup of tea, cook your favourite meals, and entertain guests to your heart’s content. I don’t know about you, but when I stay in hotels I often make unhealthy choices according to what’s on the room service menu or the convenient options nearby. Having your own kitchens means you have complete freedom to cook and eat what you like. Experience London life as a local rather than a tourist! There’s even a Tesco’s directly beneath the apartments to allow you to stock up on produce (or midnight snacks)!
The locations are ideal – save time and transportation costs by staying central – without forking out a fortune on a central hotel. I stayed at the apartments in Empire Square – just 4 minutes’ walk from Borough tube station and ten minutes from London Bridge tube/train station. The surrounding area offers plenty to explore, with numerous coffee shops, restaurants and pubs close by to satiate your appetite. I’d personally recommend the new coffee shop in the Harvard library building – Mousetail Coffee Stories – for a generous cup of coffee and a lovely atmosphere surrounded by books.
Other Marlin locations include Aldgate and St. Paul’s Cathedral, meaning you’re close to exciting seasonal events like Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Southbank Centre Christmas Market.
What else does Marlin have to offer?
To make your stay in Marlin Apartments even more special, why not try out the spa treatments available? You can enjoy your treatment in the comfort and luxury of your own apartment. Spoil yourself and take your pick from massages, facials, manicures and more.
There are also in-room phones connected to a dedicated 24-hour concierge who can help you really make the most of your time in London by booking theatre tickets, taxis and offering recommendations. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi in each room – which I made the most of to catch up on Netflix!
Even after only one night, my Marlin apartment felt like a sanctuary in the heart of chaotic London. I can see why so many make this their go-to spot for visits to the capital. If you treasure value for money without compromising on quality, we think you’ll love Marlin Apartments.
Guests can enjoy a one bedroom apartment from £90 per night (based on two people sharing). An apartment can accommodate a total of four people with an added double sofa bed for only £48 extra. Bringing more friends along? Don’t worry – the biggest apartments at Marlin can accommodate 8! Find out more and book your stay here – www.marlinapartments.com