Lodging in London
London’s hotel scene is constantly evolving; from the super-swanky to the terrifically traditional, the uber-quirky to the design focused, it is a plethora of delectable choices, but tricky to keep up with. We try to keep our clients abreast of what’s on offer, so here are a few of the latest offerings in the UK’s capital.
The Ampersand is a gorgeous boutique option in South Kensington, near Knightsbridge, and therefore well-placed for sightseeing, gallery-roaming and superb shopping. It has a lovely basement restaurant called Apero, which is rustic, roomy and convivial. A great drawing room and lounge area only sweeten your stay in bright, colourful rooms, with friendly and knowledgeable staff.
The London Edition is in Fitzrovia, a beautiful central area just north of Oxford Street, and is housed in an iconic landmark building. It has a grand but fun lobby (featuring a billiards table), and one of London’s most popular restaurant choices with the Jason Atherton-led Berners Tavern. The rooms are warmly hued and welcoming, and there is an awesome bar in the discreet oak-panelled Punch Room.
The Ham Yard Hotel is the latest and most ambitious hotel from the Firmdale group, placed between Soho and Regent Street. It boasts a stunning green rooftop garden, a basement bowling alley, and a lovely courtyard. The usual colourful Kit Kemp style creates a vibrant and enticing space, and the rooms all feature floor-to ceiling windows.
Last but not least, in Covent Garden, Spanish hotel group Melia has made its first venture into London with the ME Hotel between the Strand and the Aldwych. It’s a fabulous location for walking through Central London and venturing down to the Thames. The design focused interiors are dramatic and urban, reflecting the dynamic city, and the Radio Rooftop Bar is an excellent place to have a sundowner while enjoying the fantastic view.
These are just four additions to the burgeoning hotel scene, and there are always more on the horizon. Another update is in the pipeline, watch this space.
Anton is our man about London, bravely eating and sleeping in the city’s finest new hotels so that you can too.
