HOTEL OF THE WEEK Hyatt Regency London

Hyatt Regency London – the Churchill is an elegant five-star hotel in the Marylebone district, with 440 chic rooms and suites. It offers understated refinement with bespoke trappings and a playful design nod to Britain’s wartime leader. It is an unmistakably high-end hotel, competing with some of the capital’s finest.

My family room comprised two areas with a connecting door, overlooking picturesque Portman Square Garden. Guests can access the garden, with tennis court, on request.

The room was ideal for me and my daughter, offering enough privacy should either of us have a tantrum. The children’s area had two large single beds pushed together, while my king-size felt suitably regal. The bathrooms boast rainfall-style showers and toilets with heated seating.

The hospitality industry is currently at battle stations. The general impression was of a hotel making every effort to appear shipshape and ready for guests. I was temperature-scanned and efficiently processed through check-in. Staff in masks explained hotel restrictions from behind Covid-proof screens.

Every effort appeared to have been made to keep the floors and surfaces clean. I could take off my mask when I got to my room.

ON THE MENU

Dinner was in The Churchill Bar & Terrace where my cocktail, The Writer, would have met with the great man’s approval, as would the cigar menu.

With bulldog spirit I took on Cornish whitebait and a creamy Burrata cheese with parmesan and peas. My ribeye steak with herb sauce and fries was nicely cooked, and brown sugar custard with plums was a pleasing finale.

Staff were attentive, friendly and efficient. The atmosphere, understandably on the quiet side, was relaxed. The bill was £65 without drinks.

Breakfast in The Montagu Kitchen next door was poached eggs, though a full English and wide array of cereals and pastries were available.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Selfridges and Oxford Street are on the doorstep. Marylebone is full of independents selling quirky items. Chiltern Street has trendy bars and James Street was abuzz with restaurants. For art lovers, The Wallace Collection is around the corner.

From £218 a night, room only. hyatt.com