Hyatt Regency Blackfriars, London – Hotel Review

By Kirsty Masterman, June 2025

A trip to London is always a highlight for me, and I try to squeeze one in whenever possible. So, when a recent trip away meant flying from Gatwick, I thought I’d extend the break to include a night in the capital to kick-start my break.

Having only one night, and needing an easy connection to Gatwick Airport the next morning, I found myself checking into the Hyatt Regency Blackfriars.

Nestled amongst the bustling streets of central London in a historic Grade II-listed building, Hyatt Regency Blackfriars stands on the fringe of both the vibrant business and leisure districts. Direct trains to Gatwick, the London Underground and buses can be found directly opposite, while a riverside stroll will see you reaching the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern and Borough Market in a matter of minutes.

“Welcome treat”

Once part of King Henry VIII’s Bridewell Palace, this hotel has seen many facades throughout the years, including a public school and prison. One of the collection’s newest developments, the 5-star sanctuary pays homage to its regal heritage, offering a unique blend of old-world grandeur and modern luxury, with over 200 contemporary, spacious rooms and suites, many of which provide impressive views of the listed buildings that once held iconic printing presses.

Having arrived early, my room was not yet ready, so I left my luggage behind reception and headed out into the big smoke. A right turn and I’m faced with a sea of skyscrapers, indicating to me that the business district is just across the water. Another right, and I am strolling riverside towards Covent Garden.

After 30 minutes of navigating the unusually quiet streets, I head back, keen to get myself and my belongings safely ensconced in my room. I am only in there 30 seconds before a knock at the door sees me handed some handmade macaroons – a welcome treat, as it is now past lunchtime.

“Sense of opulence”

The room is incredibly spacious, with a huge TV and king-size bed. There is even a small sofa and coffee table to relax at. The rooms themselves nod to the hotel’s regal and literary heritage. Bespoke artwork inspired by historical newspaper printing adorns the walls, honouring the nearby Fleet Street, while the bathrooms boast marble vanities with gold finishes, providing a sense of opulence.

As I am child-free for this particular trip, I decide to spend my afternoon at the Vincent van Gogh Immersive Experience followed by a stroll around Spitalfields. A very ‘grown-up’ afternoon if ever there was one. After a few hours though, I’m ready to head back, keen to sample a refreshing drink or two at the hotel bar, and with the weather unseasonably warm, I decide to walk, rather than brave the Underground sweatbox.

Forty minutes later, and a little hot under the collar, I am back at Blackfriars and can finally take refuge in the Leaf & Cane, the Latin American-inspired cocktail bar on the lower floor. I grab a beer and head out to the leafy outdoor terrace – a semi-private seating area. Not your typical terrace – more a row of booths built into a foliage-clad wall, which, it turns out, are former prison cells. These booths are by all accounts popular and I would ordinarily need to book, but today, my luck is in and there is plenty of room for me to sit in peace and enjoy my ale while reading a few chapters of my book.

“Diverse menu”

With several dining options available, I choose to spend my evening at the Chinese Cricket Club. Located inside the hotel, this esteemed eatery promises an array of diverse and tantalising dishes. Named in honour of the captain of the Shanghai XI cricket team, Feng. Rumour has it that in 1857 he travelled to England with his wife Xiu, where they opened the city’s very first traditional Chinese restaurant. There’s not a cricket bat in sight, but there’s no mistaking that I’m in for a culinary treat.

With rattan-backed chairs, folding screens and foliage galore, this light and airy space is a world away from the bustling London streets that lie just outside. Lantern-style lamps adorn the walls alongside calligraphy art pieces, while chime music plays faintly in the background, creating a warm and welcoming ambience.

Tom, the manager of CCC, must spot my confused look and promptly appears to help me make sense of the two-rosette menu. The diverse menu is designed to give guests the chance to sample authentic, regional dishes with a contemporary and refined twist, featuring Chinese classics including a signature steamed Peking duck and dim sum.

“In my element”

With my tastebuds tingling, and unable to make a decision, I choose a combination of steamed scallop, monkfish and prawn dumplings that are served alongside a delicate broth, followed by Tom’s recommendation – the crispy chicken – all washed down with a very delectable, citrusy Pinot noir. Being a big fan of seafood and dim sum, I am in my element as the dumplings arrive, stunningly presented. A hue of shocking pink and piping hot, they are certainly a step up from the usual fare you might encounter at a Chinese restaurant, and when they finally make it to my mouth, they simply melt on the tongue. Succulent and delicious, I manage to eat them all.

By the time the crispy chicken arrives, I’m already feeling full, but the smell has me refusing to give up and I soon realise why this is one of the most popular dishes on the menu. Needless to say, I polish off the lot!

Whilst this is my preferred dining spot for the evening, other options at the hotel include NynLON, an upscale bistro that serves up a blend of New York and London cuisines, and City Lounge, which offers baked goods, light bites and complimentary hot and soft drinks throughout the day.

“Exceptional”

I wake the next morning feeling refreshed and energised, having had the best night’s sleep I’ve had in ages thanks to the super comfortable bed and the soundproof room – I failed to hear even the faintest hum of a bus or a car all night. And, after returning to the scene of my overindulgence the previous night for a hearty breakfast buffet, I check out. Twenty minutes later, I’m on the train en route to the airport.

My stay at The Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars was a rejuvenating, tranquil one, made all the more enjoyable by the fact I could relax, knowing my onward travel was mere steps away. With the exceptional service and welcoming staff, it’s definitely top of my list for future visits.

Hyatt Regency Blackfriars, 19 New Bridge Street, London EC4V 6DB
£300 for a king room, £420 for a regency suite.
Kirsty Masterman travelled directly from Howden to London on Hull Trains.
Prices at Hyatt Regency start from £300 for a king room and £420 for a Regency Suite.
hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/lonrb-hyatt-regency-london-blackfriars