I still remember the first time I saw the Novotel Canary Wharf — its sleek glass structure standing tall against London’s skyline, shimmering with reflections of the Thames. It was one of those chilly spring mornings when the city felt alive but peaceful, and I had just finished a long week of meetings. I wanted a little escape without actually leaving London — and that’s when I decided to check into Novotel Canary Wharf for a weekend staycation.
I’d heard plenty about it before — mainly about the views and the rooftop bar — but nothing quite prepared me for how effortlessly it blended comfort, modern design, and that “London luxury” feeling without the stiff formality.
First Impressions: A Stylish Urban Retreat
Walking into the Novotel Canary Wharf lobby, I was immediately struck by how vibrant and warm it felt. It wasn’t one of those hotels that feel too corporate or sterile. Instead, the design was modern yet cozy — warm lighting, pops of color, and huge windows that let the London skyline do the talking.
The staff were genuinely friendly (a huge plus for me), greeting guests with smiles that didn’t feel rehearsed. Within minutes, I was checked in and riding the elevator up to my room — and that’s when the real magic began.
The Room: Modern, Bright, and Surprisingly Quiet
My room was on one of the higher floors, and when I stepped inside, I almost didn’t want to leave. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed a panoramic view of Canary Wharf’s iconic skyscrapers and the River Thames — especially beautiful as the sun began to set.
Everything about the room screamed comfort and practicality. The bed was plush, the desk was perfect for catching up on emails, and the bathroom had that spa-like vibe that makes you linger longer than you should.
One small detail I loved? The espresso machine. As someone who’s borderline obsessed with coffee, being able to sip a rich espresso while watching the city wake up below was my idea of perfection.
Personal Tip #1: If you’re booking a room, definitely ask for a river view or one facing the skyline. The higher you go, the better the view — and trust me, it’s worth every penny.
Dining at Bōkan: More Than Just a Rooftop Bar
Now, I have to confess — I’m a bit of a foodie. So when I realized that Novotel Canary Wharf housed one of London’s most talked-about rooftop restaurants, Bōkan, I knew I was in for a treat.
Bōkan isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a three-level experience. The lower floor offers fine dining with a focus on European-inspired dishes, while the top floor — the Bōkan 39 rooftop bar — gives you one of the most jaw-dropping views of London.
I ordered the seared scallops followed by a perfectly cooked steak, and everything was flawless. But what really stole the show was dessert — a chocolate fondant that might just be the best I’ve ever had.
Personal Tip #2: Book your rooftop table around sunset. Watching the city lights flicker on while you sip a cocktail (the “London Skies” is my recommendation) is nothing short of magical.
Exploring the Neighborhood: The Best of Canary Wharf
A lot of people still think Canary Wharf is just a financial district full of suits and glass towers — but it’s so much more than that. Staying at Novotel Canary Wharf gave me the perfect excuse to explore.
Just a few minutes from the hotel, I found Crossrail Place Roof Garden, a hidden oasis filled with exotic plants and quiet spots to sit and relax. It’s free to visit and perfect if you need a peaceful escape.
Then there’s Jubilee Park, dotted with fountains and surrounded by cafés. For shopping enthusiasts, Canary Wharf Shopping Centre is a short walk away — with everything from designer stores to cozy coffee spots.
If you’re into art or architecture, the area has plenty of public sculptures and modern design worth checking out, too.
Amenities That Make a Difference
One of the things I appreciated most about my stay was how Novotel Canary Wharf balanced business and leisure so well.
Here are a few features that stood out to me:
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Indoor Pool: It’s not massive, but it’s perfect for a relaxing swim after a long day.
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24-hour Gym: Fully equipped with modern machines and a great view of the city.
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Meeting Rooms & Co-working Spaces: Ideal if you’re traveling for business but still want that comfort factor.
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Pet-Friendly Policy: Yes, they welcome pets! A friend of mine brought her small dog, and the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating.
The hotel really nails that “home away from home” feeling — except, of course, with much better views and room service.
Getting There and Around
One of the best things about staying here is how easy it is to get around. The Canary Wharf Underground Station and DLR are just a short walk away, making it super convenient to reach central London, Greenwich, or even the City Airport.
If you’re up for something scenic, hop on an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers from the nearby pier — it’s a relaxing way to see London from the water, and it drops you right near all the major landmarks.
Why I’d Recommend Novotel Canary Wharf
After staying at dozens of hotels across London, I can honestly say Novotel Canary Wharf stands out for its personality. It doesn’t try too hard to impress — it just is impressive.
It’s modern yet relaxed, upscale yet approachable. Whether you’re a business traveler, a couple looking for a romantic weekend, or a local seeking a mini staycation, it fits all occasions.
What makes it special:
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The views — easily among the best in London.
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The staff — warm, efficient, and genuinely friendly.
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The food and bar scene — world-class, especially at Bōkan.
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The location — tucked away from the chaos of central London but still within easy reach of everything.
Final Thoughts: A Stay Worth Repeating
When I checked out of Novotel Canary Wharf, I left feeling refreshed — the kind of refreshed that only comes when you’ve taken a genuine break from routine.
I’ve since recommended it to several friends, and every single one came back raving about the same things: the view, the food, and that peaceful vibe that’s hard to find in a city that never stops moving.