I've probably stayed here 8 times between 2004-2014. I started by staying in the cheaper room, found the bed rock hard, housemaid cleaning cupboard across from room, noisy with chatter. I then changed to executive room with access to executive lounge for brekky & evening drinks & niblies. King size bed, very comfy, combined shower/bath, good bench space bathroom sink, no noise from next room.
Over the years I've noticed a difference in food offerings in the lounge, but IMO, still adequate. Overall, staff are generally helpful.
Front desk staff as a whole know what they are doing, you can tell recent staff are not as knowledgable. One of my stays I booked the room the night before landing to gain access after early arrival. Upon arrival, this wasn't the case but sorted within the hour & access to lounge to wait.
In my hilton profile, I ask for high room away from elevator. I generally have room at back of hotel, prefer this to facing front, can be noisy with police or ambulance sirens, still somewhat with window closed. Have seen some nice fireworks from room around Guy Falks night. Very close walk to Notting Hill (enjoy reading real estate properties), also close to Kensington Gardens.
i think it cost between £10-12 in 2014 from Paddington station for taxi. I've walked it previously but choose not to again after long haul flight.
i will be in London in October, travelling with my daughter. Unfortunately not at hotel of my choice, airbnb this time, won't seem the same. Thankfully still in similar area.