We got the train to London Kings Cross and then purchased our Oyster cards from the machine. Even if you're travelling within the next couple of days it's still worth checking for advance train fares before you travel as it can sometimes save you money compared to the on-the-day fare. In our case we travelled first class which only worked out £8 more than an advance standard fare.
The location of H10 is perfect for sightseeing as you're literally a 5 minute walk away from Waterloo station. Despite the fact we were three and a half hours early for check-in we were offered Cava and Sweets at the desk which is a very nice touch, and then shown to our room on the tenth floor. These rooms aren't particularly cheap but they are certainly worth the money. They're a bit quirky and the bed is honestly one of the best I have stayed in - it's giant! The best part about the room is that you can lay in bed at night and see the London Eye all lit up. You can read my full review here.
Once we'd freshened up we made our way across to Hyde Park for an afternoon at Winter Wonderland. During the day it wasn't too busy but when we left around 8pm there were massive queues to get in. To make the most of your visit I'd strongly recommend visiting earlier in the day, or on a weekday if you can. The lights all look pretty good in the dark.
Winter Wonderland can be as cheap or as expensive as you make it. Entry is free and you only pay for the attractions. We pre-booked the Magic Ice Kingdom, Giant Wheel and an ice skating session. We had planned on visiting Ice Bar London but actually didn't make it there on time, so I'd recommend visiting Bar Ice at Winter Wonderland instead. The Ice Kingdom is pretty impressive with all different sculptures made from Ice. There's even a hand-made throne!
There is a Christmas Market and various stalls dotted around the park selling everything from tasty treats to christmassy souvenirs and gifts. There are also a selection of bars - my favourites were the carousel and arctic lodge. It's a great day out as it really does get you into the Christmas spirit.
If you're planning on eating nearby afterwards you'll definitely need a meal reservation. There were queues out of the door everywhere we looked. By about 9pm we gave up as we were both too tired and very lazy, so we ended up eating dinner at Pizza Hut (it's safe to say we aborted mission posh meal). When we got back to H10 LW we took a trip to the Sky Bar. There's a small terrace that looks out over London. It's really cute and there are blankets provided in case you get chilly. The bar specialises in Gin and Tonic. It's nice after a busy day to sit, chill out and enjoy the views.
When we returned to our room we found the staff had delivered us a chocolate dessert and more Cava. I really cannot fault this hotel for customer service as they go above and beyond. There is a fully stocked mini-bar in the room which is also useful. After a few drinks and demolishing the dessert we snuggled up in our giant bed for some beauty sleep.
When we woke up on Sunday the first thing on my mind was breakfast. We got dressed and made our way down to explore what food was available. After reading reviews I was pretty excited (after all, breakfast is supposedly the most important meal of the day), and I have to say that this is honestly one of the best breakfasts I've ever eaten. There was just so much variety - hot food for a full english, fresh cheese and meats, bread, all different pastries, cereals, juice, hot drinks, etc - you name it, I bet you can find it. It cost us an additional £10 each for breakfast which is a great price for such a fantastic selection.
The location of H10 LW came in so handy on Sunday. We took a long walk down South Bank and absorbed the pretty views. We wandered around Big Ben and then took a ride on the London Eye. If you're living in England and haven't been, you must. The views across London are so cool.
We may have underestimated how busy Covent Garden tube station would actually be. We were crammed in a queue for a lift, then the lift, and then the platform before finally getting on the tube back to Kings Cross. In true Shanise style we had to frantically rush to Left Luggage to collect our bags before boarding our train back to the quiet-land-of-nowhere and saying goodbye to London.
