If you’ve ever tried to book a hotel in London during peak season, you know the drill. Everything central is either the price of a small car or the size of a shoebox. That is exactly why Holiday Inn Express London - Greenwich stays so busy. It sits in that sweet spot of the North Greenwich peninsula where you aren't quite in the chaos of the West End, but you aren't stuck in the middle of nowhere either.
Honestly, it’s a functional choice. You aren't staying here for gold-leaf ceilings or a Michelin-star dining room. You’re staying here because you have tickets for a show at The O2 or you need to get to Canary Wharf without losing your mind in traffic. It’s reliable. That’s the big draw.
The hotel is located on Bugsbys Way. If you know the area, you know it’s a bit industrial. There’s a retail park nearby. It isn't "pretty" in the traditional Victorian-architecture sense, but it is incredibly practical. You’ve got a huge Sainsbury’s and an ASDA within walking distance, which, if you’re trying to save money on London food prices, is a massive win.
What People Get Wrong About the Location
Most travelers see "Greenwich" and assume they’ll be stepping out of the lobby directly onto the Cutty Sark. You won't. Holiday Inn Express London - Greenwich is about a 15-to-20-minute walk from the historic center of Greenwich.
It’s closer to the industrial side of the peninsula.
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However, being near The O2 is the real selling point. If you’re seeing a massive concert, the last thing you want is to be crammed onto the Jubilee Line with 20,000 other people at midnight. From this hotel, you can basically wander back while everyone else is still fighting for a spot on the tube. It’s a game changer for gig-goers.
The transport links are actually decent if you know how to use them. North Greenwich Underground station is the main hub. From there, the Jubilee Line zips you into London Bridge or Canary Wharf in minutes. If you want a more scenic route, the Uber Boat (Thames Clippers) leaves from North Greenwich Pier. It’s more expensive than the bus, but sitting on a boat with a coffee while passing the Tower of London is a much better way to start your day than being squashed under someone’s armpit on the train.
The Room Situation: Expect Standard, Not Scandi-Chic
Don't expect a boutique experience. This is a Holiday Inn Express. The rooms are blue, beige, and functional. They have that specific "hotel smell"—a mix of laundry detergent and industrial carpet cleaner. It’s clean, though.
The beds are surprisingly good. They use the standard IHG bedding—firm or soft pillow options are usually labeled. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room at the back of the building. Bugsbys Way can get a bit noisy with delivery trucks early in the morning.
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- Wi-Fi is free and usually fast enough for a Netflix stream or a Zoom call.
- Power outlets are usually near the desk, though some older rooms still haven't moved them right next to the bed.
- The bathrooms are pods. Think cruise ship style—compact, easy to clean, and the water pressure in the shower is actually decent.
One thing that genuinely annoys some people is the lack of a fridge. If you buy milk for your own tea or have leftovers from dinner, you’re out of luck. It’s a standard "Express" limitation, but worth knowing before you show up with a bag of groceries.
The Breakfast "Express Start" Reality
The "free" breakfast is a staple of the brand. In London, where a burnt piece of toast and a lukewarm coffee can cost you £15, having it included in the room rate is a huge relief.
But let's be real about the food.
It’s a buffet. You’ll find the "Great British Breakfast" staples: sausages, scrambled eggs (the kind that comes from a carton but tastes fine), and baked beans. No bacon. For some reason, many Holiday Inn Express locations in the UK skipped the bacon and went for back-bacon bits or just skipped it entirely in favor of sausages. There’s cereal, yogurt, and some pastries that are definitely defrosted but hit the spot.
The coffee machines are the real heroes. They’re bean-to-cup. It isn't high-end artisan espresso, but it’s better than the instant coffee sachets you find in the rooms. Pro tip: if the breakfast room is packed (and it will be around 8:30 AM), grab a "to-go" cup and head back to your room.
Navigating the Area Like a Local
If you’re staying at Holiday Inn Express London - Greenwich, don’t just eat at the hotel bar. The menu is limited—think pizzas and burgers. Instead, head toward the Greenwich Peninsula.
There’s a spot called Design District Canteen near the O2. It’s a giant yellow structure with a bunch of independent food stalls inside. Much better vibes. Or, if you want something cheaper, the retail park across the road has the usual suspects: Nando’s, Starbucks, and some quick-service spots.
For a bit of a walk, head south toward the actual Greenwich Park. It’s a solid 25-minute trek, but once you get there, the view from the Royal Observatory is one of the best in London. You can see the whole skyline of Canary Wharf framed by the old naval buildings. It’s free to walk the park, and honestly, it’s why most people come to this corner of the city in the first place.
Parking and Accessibility
Parking in London is usually a nightmare. This hotel actually has a car park, which is rare. It isn't free, though. You’re looking at around £20-£25 per day, which is actually "cheap" by London standards but still an extra cost to factor in.
If you’re driving, be aware of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Greenwich is inside it. If your car isn't compliant, you’ll be hit with a daily charge just for turning the engine on. Check your registration on the TfL website before you arrive so you don't get a nasty surprise in the mail two weeks later.
Is It Worth It?
If you are a business traveler with meetings in Canary Wharf, yes.
If you are a family on a budget who doesn't mind a 30-minute commute to Central London, yes.
If you are in town for an event at The O2, absolutely yes.
If you want a romantic, "Emily in Paris" style getaway with cobblestone streets and quaint cafes right outside your door, you will be disappointed. It’s a utilitarian hotel. It’s safe, it’s clean, and the staff are generally used to dealing with huge crowds of concert-goers, so they’re pretty efficient.
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Actionable Steps for Your Stay
- Join IHG One Rewards: Even if you don't travel much, it’s free. Members often get a slightly later checkout or a dedicated check-in lane. Sometimes it saves you £5-£10 on the "member rate."
- Download the Citymapper App: Don't rely on Google Maps alone for London transport. Citymapper will tell you exactly which bus to take from the stop right outside the hotel to get to the Cutty Sark or the tube station.
- Avoid the 8 AM Rush: The breakfast area is small relative to the number of rooms. Eat at 7:00 AM or after 9:30 AM to avoid the "Hungry Family" gauntlet.
- Check The O2 Schedule: Even if you aren't going to a show, check who is playing. If it’s a massive artist (think Taylor Swift or a major rock band), the hotel will be at 100% capacity and the local restaurants will be slammed. Plan your dinner accordingly.
- Use the North Greenwich Pier: Take the boat at least once. It’s a bit more money, but the views of the South Bank and Tower Bridge are worth the "commute" cost.
The Holiday Inn Express London - Greenwich serves a specific purpose. It’s the reliable, no-frills anchor of the Greenwich peninsula. It won't change your life, but it will provide a solid night's sleep and a decent breakfast without draining your bank account. For London, that's a win.