Fairmont The Norfolk

The hotel is celebrated as a tranquil oasis of calm in the heart of the city, distinguished by its lush, beautifully maintained gardens and rich historical charm. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff and service, the outstanding food quality, and the overall welcoming ambiance. This makes it an ideal choice for business travelers seeking a serene retreat after a busy day, as well as tourists and sightseers looking for a comfortable and iconic base before or after a safari adventure. Couples will appreciate the romantic and peaceful atmosphere, while families can enjoy the spacious accommodations and attentive service. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room with a courtyard view for added tranquility, and be sure to explore the hotel's captivating history woven into its design.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the hotel's well-maintained gardens and tranquil courtyard, which provide a peaceful escape within the bustling city. The swimming pool area is generally appreciated for relaxation, though some guests note it appears a bit tired or is overlooked by surrounding buildings. The fitness center and spa facilities are available for guest use, with some feedback suggesting they could benefit from renovation to match the hotel's overall luxury. The hotel also features a popular bar, often described as having a great atmosphere and serving excellent drinks and food throughout the day. While the Wi-Fi connection is generally available, some guests experienced intermittent service or limited bandwidth, which could be an area for improvement. Other conveniences include a pleasant lobby and the overall elegant ambiance of the property.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the cleanliness of the hotel and its rooms, describing them as spotless and well-maintained. The spacious rooms are a recurring positive, offering ample space for relaxation. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few found mattresses to be on the softer side. While the bathrooms are generally clean, some guests noted they appear a bit dated or are on the smaller side, despite being functional. Amenities such as an umbrella are thoughtfully provided for guest convenience. Feedback on noise levels is mixed, with some rooms experiencing street or corridor noise, while others are described as quiet and serene. Some minor issues like non-working TVs or temporary hot water problems were reported but typically resolved quickly by staff.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives widespread acclaim, with guests consistently praising the food quality and variety. The breakfast buffet is a particular highlight, described as outstanding with an extensive choice of fresh fruits, pastries, and made-to-order options, accompanied by good coffee. The on-site restaurants, including Tatu and the Lord Delamere terrace, offer an exquisite selection of international and local flavors, with many guests considering their meals a five-star experience. The bar also serves good food throughout the day and night, contributing to the overall positive culinary impression. While room service is generally good with hot meal delivery, a few guests found the menu choice limited or the food arrived cold on occasion.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location in Nairobi, making it highly accessible to the city's business district and various attractions. Guests appreciate its position as a historical landmark, providing an oasis of calm amidst the urban environment. It serves as an excellent base for both business and leisure travelers, particularly those embarking on or returning from safari. While the hotel itself is secure and well-maintained, some guests note that the immediate surrounding area can be busy, noisy, and immersed in traffic, with limited pedestrian-friendly options. Despite this, its proximity to key areas like the University and Central Police Station is seen as a benefit. Transportation options, including chauffeur services, are available, though some guests found them to be more expensive than external alternatives.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel are consistently highlighted as exceptional, often described as the property's greatest asset. Guests frequently praise the team's friendliness, warm welcome, and attentive service, noting their genuine willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. The check-in process is generally efficient, though a few guests reported it could be slow, similar to check-out. Staff are commended for their professionalism, helpfulness with requests, and their ability to make guests feel valued. Specific mentions include efficient housekeeping and excellent chauffeur service. The overall impression is one of dedicated and courteous individuals who significantly enhance the guest experience, making visitors feel at home.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel implements security checks at the entrance, which, while ensuring safety, can sometimes be perceived as a minor inconvenience, especially for returning residents. The hotel's rich historical significance is a notable aspect, with its colonial charm and long-standing presence in Nairobi contributing to a unique ambiance. Some guests enjoyed the high tea experience, praising its lovely presentation and elegant style. While not a universal offering, some guests were delighted to find a small rhino figurine on their pillow as a thoughtful touch. The hotel is also noted for its pet-friendly policy, though specific details on amenities for pets are limited in reviews.