Rooms at Holiday Inn Express Heathrow Terminal 5

Rooms that are a pleasant surprise

The first thing you notice as you walk into your room at the Terminal 5 Express is how stylish and modern it is. The dark wood and navy blue theme and some pleasant artwork on the walls give the rooms some character without being garish. The beds are extremely yielding, great if you like a soft mattress, not so good if you don’t, and come with a choice of firm and soft pillows to suit your taste and a cosy duvet. There are curtains that keep out most of the light and climate control in all the rooms, along with opening windows, so you’ll find the right light level and temperature.

All the rooms have the usual phone, kettle, tea and coffee, but also offer a good-sized workspace with a large desk, office chair and built-in lamp. A flatscreen TV gives you Freeview, including music and children’s channels. The room is dotted with little nooks and crannies, including a rail of hangers, to store luggage and clothes, but they’re all open, so you’re not likely to forget anything. There’s wifi in all the rooms, not super-quick and it did cut out once or twice, but it will do and 24 hours’ worth will set you back only £10.

The en suite is cosy, but classy, and we were impressed with the huge power shower cubicle. The toiletries are fixed to the wall, so no cheeky freebies, but it does mean you can help yourself to a more generous helping of shower gel than just a miniature bottle. You’ll also find a full-length mirror and a hairdryer.

The T5 Express can provide double and twin rooms, some of which come with a comfy couch that folds easily out into an extra bed, though you wouldn’t know it to look. Rooms for disabled guests are also available and have hand rails, assistance alarms and less furniture to ensure there’s space for a wheelchair. The buttons in the lift also have Braille text next to the numbers.