Spark by Hilton London Romford

Spark by Hilton was launched in 2023 as Hilton’s answer to the growing demand for value-focused accommodation. The Romford property is among the first wave of Spark hotels to open in Europe. Unlike many historic Hilton hotels, this one has no heritage ties but reflects a new direction for the brand: functional design, straightforward services, and affordability. The concept was created to compete with established budget chains such as Premier Inn and Travelodge, while maintaining Hilton’s brand consistency and reliability.

The hotel has 125 air-conditioned rooms spread across four floors, including several that are wheelchair accessible. Rooms include a flatscreen TV, tea-and-coffee-making facilities, an iron (but oddly, no ironing board) and an en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower. One thing that was missing, at least from my room, is a work desk. This will definitely be a deal breaker for some people.

Although rooms are small, they are well designed with a small wardrobe that offers a hanging space for your clothes, plus a few shelves and under-bed storage.

Free Wi-Fi wireless internet access is available throughout the hotel.

Public facilities are modest, consistent with the hotel’s limited-service model. There is no gym, spa or swimming pool, and the focus is on communal spaces that are functional rather than luxurious. The small lobby area doubles as a lounge and bar, offering a mix of sofa seating and tables. A self-serve hydration station is available, where guests can help themselves to water.

The hotel is in Romford, a major suburban centre around 20km (12½ miles) east of The City of London. Although, it’s out in the suburbs, it is right in the commercial centre of Romford and it’s also right next to Romford station, which means that it’s quick and easy to get into central London.

The immediate vicinity around the hotel is vibrant, particularly during weekends, reflecting Romford’s role as a shopping and nightlife hub for east London and Essex. There are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby and the Liberty Shopping Centre and the Brewery retail complex are both within a five-minute walk, offering a wide range of high-street shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Romford’s historic market, dating back to the 13th century, is around five minutes’ walk north from the hotel. You’ll find the Golden Lion pub near the market, which has more character than the ‘Spoons near the hotel. The Golden Lion has been around since the 15th century and some accounts indicate that Francis Bacon and William Shakespeare may have popped in for a drink.

The hotel is virtually next door to Romford railway station, which is served by the Elizabeth line with services to central London running every eight minutes and trains to Heathrow every half hour. Allow around half an hour to get to Liverpool Street and a little longer for stations in the West End.

The Spark by Hilton Romford provides simple, functional accommodation at a budget price within easy reach of central London. It suits travellers looking for a reliable, modern place to stay without unnecessary extras and staying out in Romford can save you a lot of money, when compared to more centrally-located hotels.

Because it’s a Hilton, you can use the Hilton app as your room key and earn points and status in Hilton’s loyalty programme, something you can’t do if you’re staying at a Premier Inn or Travelodge.