Western companies own several affordable London hotels in the city's cultural and business hubs. With a population of 7.8 million, the Greater Urban London Area is the second largest urban area in Eastern Europe, accommodating the lion's share of the nation's tourists and business travelers. Hospitality is England's fifth-largest industry, according to the British Hospitality Association.
A prime feature of the Best Western Victoria Palace in London is its close proximity to Buckingham Palace and other London landmarks, and its relatively expensive price, compared to other local hotels. The hotel is also also within walking distance of Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Theatre Land. The rooms are "bright with modern decor" and are equipped with all the standard amenities, including wireless Internet. There is also a complimentary continental breakfast buffet, with everything from freshly baked croissants to scrambled eggs.
The Best Western Shaftesbury Padding is also located close to several London landmarks. The hotel is located within walking distance of Hyde Park and Kensington Palace Gardens. It's also within close proximity to Paddington Station, with direct links to Heathrow Airport and Lancaster Gate, Queensway Underground and Bayswater stations. The hotel also provides wireless Internet, a restaurant and bar, multilingual staff, and a fitness room for guests.
The Hilton London Paddington, the former Great Western Royal Hotel, is connected by a footbridge to Paddington Station, and is 15 minutes from Heathrow Airport. The hotel also features 18 meeting rooms, accommodating groups from 200 to 350. There is wireless Internet throughout the hotel, and a business center equipped with fax, paging and printing equipment. The hotel also features a fitness center, and is located near Hyde Park, Oxford Street and the West End, 10 minutes away. Setting the "smart" hotel apart from other central London hotels, besides the conference rooms and other business accommodations, are the "Art Deco-style rooms," that are bright and airy with large, opening windows.
