London calling again
Capital’s hotels are gearing up to welcome visitors, says Sarah Marshall
England’s capital is set to shine again from May 17, when hotels will be fully reopening. 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.
Here, experts from several hotels share 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; it’s free for the general galleries. Book to see exhibitions this summer, including Tracey Emin and Edvard Munch and David Hockney.
“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,”
Deal: Enjoy up to 20% discount off the Flexible Rate, a pre-dinner aperitif and a complimentary daily continental breakfast.
HYATT REGENCY LONDON – THE CHURCHILL
Concierge Joe Fox says: “A taxi ride from Marylebone, discover the secrets of the Second World War in the underground nerve centre where Churchill and his cabinet lived and worked.
“Trace the steps taken by Churchill and delve into the historic wartime bunker for a glimpse into what life was like during those tense days.
Deal: Enjoy 20% off the best available rate, including breakfast and a £25 food and beverage credit during your stay.
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 – you will hardly believe you’re in the middle of London.
Deal: Receive 50% off a second room with a family stay, authentic Italian
pizza classes and mocktailmaking sessions for kids.
HARD ROCK HOTEL LONDON
Rock Shop manager Kevin Lee says: “Hyde
Park is a beautiful green oasis to get away from the bustle of the city, especially walking by the Serpentine on a nice sunny day. If you go just south of the Peter Pan statue by around 100 metres, there is a tree filled with friendly green parakeets. Bring a green apple and they will fly right to you. Kensington Palace lies at the other end of the park. I love walking through the historical rooms.”
Deal: Stay in a Classic Room at a special rate of £149 per night, including breakfast, plus a £25 voucher per room for the hotel Rock Shop.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LONDON AT PARK LANE
Concierge Michael Hagan says: “The dining scene in London is thriving, and I’d say it’s the restaurant capital of the world. If you are after Michelin Star restaurants, then you will not be disappointed.
“My recommendation is Le Gavroche; it’s a classic dining destination and will always be one of my favourites. For hearty Italian food, Circolo Popolare and Cecconi’s never disappoint, or for those wanting to experience a traditional English pub, I recommend The Grenadier.”
Deal: Enjoy rooms from £590 per night with daily breakfast , one seasonal welcome drink per person, and parking for one car.
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 cafés, including my personal favourite, 26 Grains. Funnily enough, 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 eponymous show.
“Take time to wander the seven streets surrounding the ‘Seven Dials’, filled with independent stores.”
Deal: Receive a £75 daily credit, a bottle of champagne on arrival, free parking and breakfast. Prices from £533 per night. ■ To book a deal, visit hotelweeklondon.co.uk.