MichaelL_NL
Google
My recent stay at citizenM Shoreditch reminded me why I often choose this brand when traveling: clean, compact rooms with clever design, reliably friendly staff, and a modern aesthetic aimed squarely at today’s urban traveler. That said, as one of the older properties in the citizenM portfolio, this particular hotel is starting to show its age and a refresh would go a long way toward maintaining the high standards the brand is known for.||||The Room: Smart Layout||||As expected with citizenM, the room layout is a model of space efficiency. The oversized bed remains a highlight, plush and perfectly positioned by the window, ideal for lounging or streaming your favorite show on the in-room smart TV. Controls for lighting, blinds, and temperature via the tablet or app are intuitive, and everything was spotless upon arrival.||||Facilities: Some Disruptions, Communicated in Advance||||The hotel had proactively informed me by email that one of the elevators was out of service during my stay, which I appreciated. Still, this did result in longer waits at peak times. The common areas also reflect the hotel’s age. Some carpets are visibly stained, and the lounge furniture, while stylish, is beginning to look a bit tired.||||One issue that stood out was an unpleasant smell in certain public areas, particularly near the lifts. At times, it resembled the sharp scent of a urinal, which was unfortunately hard to ignore. It detracted from the otherwise polished feel of the space and is something I hope the team addresses promptly, as it doesn’t reflect the cleanliness standard I typically associate with citizenM.||||Service: Genuinely Warm and Helpful||||The standout element of my stay was the team. Every ambassador I encountered was cheerful, helpful, and genuinely eager to assist. From check-in to check-out, the service felt more personable than transactional, which isn’t always the case in tech-forward hotels. It’s clear that the team here still takes pride in making guests feel welcome.||||This warmth helps compensate for some of the physical shortcomings of the property and it’s a reminder that good hospitality goes a long way even when the infrastructure is a little dated.||||Location: Hip, But Not Quiet||||Shoreditch remains one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods, full of street art, independent shops, and great food spots. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from Shoreditch High Street Overground and a short bus or ride-share away from Liverpool Street Station. Be aware though, this is an area that buzzes late into the night, especially on weekends. While the rooms are well insulated, light sleepers may want to request a higher floor.||||Final Thoughts: Still a Solid Choice, But Due for a Refresh||||CitizenM Shoreditch continues to offer excellent value for those who appreciate the brand’s blend of smart design, digital convenience, and welcoming service. That said, the hotel is overdue for a refurbishment. A refreshed look, along with updates to the rooms, improved lighting, and a bit more polish in the shared spaces, would help this property keep pace with newer citizenM locations.||||If you’re already a fan of the brand, you’ll find familiar comfort here. If it’s your first citizenM experience, just know you’re seeing a version of it that could be even better. With its unbeatable location and outstanding staff, Shoreditch still has much to offer, especially if you catch it after its next upgrade.