The hotel is one block down from the light that you cross Harbor to go into DLR. I like crossing to DLR right at that light, then walking along the DL side vs. the hotel side. Tends to move faster. But, it definitely is an older hotel. While it might not be the number one stellar hotel out there, we've always liked it and I don't think you'll have any troubles with it. Parking is a bit of a bear, you may have to park on the other side of the hotel, depending upon when you get there.
Oh, about the free meals, KIDS under 9 eat free there. The restaurant only serves breakfast and dinner, though. We brought stuff for breakfast with us when we were there, so didn't have that issue.