With its endless array of chic boutiques, cultural sights and nightlife, make the most of a stay in London with Quintessentially’s edit of under-the-radar hotels. Perfectly poised for a spot of downtime – think refined, elevated and curated – they’re all within a stone’s throw of some of the city’s most desirable postcodes.
The Mayfair Townhouse
A whimsical homage to the dandy era of Oscar Wilde, The Mayfair Townhouse is a collection of 15 Georgian townhouses that comprise rooms and suites and a sophisticated bar and club rooms, all against the alluring backdrop of Half Moon Street.
Notably from the group behind Chewton Glen and Cliveden House, this curious hotel has the glitz of its aristocratic past fused with all the modern nuances today’s conventional traveller seeks in a neighbourhood residence.
A continued theme of flamboyance is portrayed across the thoughtfully moderated rooms, with many featuring private patios and views of the West End. Deep shades of rouge and limited edition prints on the walls are a nod to the hotel’s affinity with art while showcased in a subtle yet striking way, with particular reference to the emblematic fox, which acts as a mascot, and a crystal-embellished peacock in the lobby.
To eat, the Mayfair Townhouse doesn’t have an official restaurant; instead, you’ll want to head over to the must-visit Dandy Bar for all-day dining, sublime cocktails and a spot of hedonism.
Insider tip: Make the most of a night in with the complimentary minibar, fully stocked with sweet treats and thirst quenchers.
The Twenty Two
Blending the creativity of the East with the flair of the West, The Twenty Two is as a charming newcomer to the vibrant neighbourhood of Mayfair’s Grosvenor Square.
With just 31 rooms, this unapologetically opulent hideaway is a nod to 18th-century splendour and spans a restaurant, members’ club and hotel. You can expect to find a flurry of rich golds and old-school glamour, with velvet-clad furnishings and chandeliers paired with a bold colour palette – all befitting of the manor’s heritage as a former family home.
A touch of eccentricity is echoed throughout the hotel, drawing on its playful aesthetic, and it’s easy to feel at home here with the sumptuous beds – several of which are four-poster – and plush living areas that ooze lavishness.
Insider tip: Take a nightcap in the too-cool-for-school Music Room and be prepared to dance away into the early hours.
The Cadogan
Emanating the English charm of a countryside chateau, The Cadogan takes a prominent position in the heart of Knightsbridge and airs a breadth of elegance. Rooms in this neighbourhood sanctuary are the perfect balance of understated yet undeniably luxurious.
You can expect a good night’s kip here as the hotel has its own sleep concierge, with Harley Street expert Malminder Gill at the helm. Relaxing meditation recordings in rooms, a pillow menu second to none and a specially developed bedtime tea are all part of the service designed to induce better sleeping patterns.
You’ll also want to enjoy the tranquil outdoor space of Cadogan Palace Gardens, to which the hotel has privileged access for guests, replete with its own tennis courts. The hotel provides everything from blankets to deck chairs so you can unwind in a moment of alfresco.
Insider tip: Stay in the marvellous seven-bedroom penthouse occupying the top floor with enviable garden views.
The Londoner
Perhaps the closest thing to a grown-up playground, The Londoner is a unique, super boutique hotel encompassing everything from a dedicated wellness floor, six different food concepts and an expansive guest-only club.
Sleekly designed, muted neutrals and toned-down furnishings create a contemporary feel throughout the hotel and rooms; a truly modern blend of comfort and style. A focal point is the impressive art collection, which tastefully amplifies the design-led concept of the communal areas and guest rooms.
Invest some time navigating the numerous eateries and posh bars. Our favourites are The Stage; a classical space occupying the lobby centred around a common theme of champagne, and 8 at The Londoner; a rooftop oasis with food by ex-Nobu chef Kuehni Won.
For the wellbeing fanatic, The Retreat is also worthy of a jaunt; a splendid pool, private training and a vast menu of holistic therapies make for a day well spent as the outside world goes by – all four floors below ground.
Insider tip: Drop in for a tipple at The Whisky Room, accessed via a secret passage, and they’ll save your bottle for next time, too.
This story was first published by Quintessentially.com and is republished with kind permission. For more information, please go to Quintessentially.com
