LONDON CALLING
IT’S been a tough ride for city break hotels, but as the UK starts to emerge from lockdown with a gradual reopening of venues, England’s capital is set to shine again.
From May 17, hotels should be fully reopening across the country, and to encourage visitors to return, many are participating in the inaugural Hotel Week. Bookable now, a number of special packages and generous discounts are available for stays from May 28 to June 6, 2021 – with some extending further into the summer.
But what should you do once you get there? Experts from some of the participating hotels have shared their tips on where to go and how to rediscover one of the greatest cities in the world.
DUKES, LONDON
Concierge Iain Haigh says: “The Royal Academy of Arts is a five-minute walk from the hotel; it’s free for the general galleries. Book to see exhibitions this summer, including Tracey Emin and Edvard Munch, David Hockney, and Michael Armitage.
“Some of London’s finest shops are also on the doorstep – including Fortnum & Mason and Hatchards Bookshop. Stroll for 10 minutes and you are at Burlington Arcade or, in the other direction, Buckingham Palace, St James’ Palace and Clarence House. ” ■ Deal: 20% off the Flexible Rate, a pre-dinner aperitif and a complimentary daily continental breakfast in GBR (Great British Restaurant), and 20% discount on any spa treatment per room/per stay, plus guaranteed late check out.
LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL GROSVENOR SQUARE
Concierge Rebecca Scott says: “For me, the most wonderful way to enjoy London is to walk and explore like a local.
“I highly recommend wandering around Mayfair, around the little side streets and picturesque mews. Then head down to Shepherd Market; a lovely village-like piazza full of
restaurants and pubs tucked away between Piccadilly and Curzon Street.
“As day turns to night, there is nothing better than a pre-dinner cocktail. I always recommend our bar with a secret entrance – The Luggage Room – for an intimate atmosphere and some reviving cocktails.” ■ Deal: Receive 50% off a second room with a family stay, authentic Italian pizza classes and mocktail-making sessions for the kids.
ROSEWOOD LONDON
Concierge Judith Van Der Heijden says: “Start the day with a walk down to quirky Neal’s Yard, a small courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden. It’s bursting with colour and full of small, independent restaurants and cafes, including my favourite, 26 Grains.
“It was the birthplace of Monty Python’s Flying Circus and a blue plaque marks the spot of the editing suites used by Terry Jones and Michael Palin to produce the show.
“Take time to wander the seven streets surrounding the ‘Seven Dials’. Filled with independent stores, the area is perfect for contemporary and vintage shopping,” ■ Deal: Receive a £75 daily credit to enjoy during your stay, a bottle of champagne on arrival, complimentary parking, late check-out, breakfast and a one category room upgrade on booking. Prices start from £533 per night.
■ Book these deals at hotelweeklondon.co.uk