HOTEL OF THE WEEK
The Westminster, London WHERE AND WHY
Set near the banks of the Thames next to MI5 headquarters, The Westminster is the perfect place to experience London as never before.
A recent £30million refurb saw the Hilton venue embrace its location with a theme of intrigue and espionage. It is tastefully evident everywhere if you look close – from mysterious artwork on the walls, right down to the carpets and their pattern of secret soundwaves.
In a case even Sherlock Holmes couldn’t solve, the hotel is somehow abundantly spacious and hidden away in a quiet street, despite being so central in the historic heart of the Big Smoke.
Each uniquely tailored room has the feeling of a miniapartment, with furnishings and flourishes fit for James Bond.
Just one night here will leave you shaken with delight and stirred by luxury.
ON THE MENU
STK steakhouse on the first floor is a destination in itself. Darkly seductive decor, excellent music, attentive staff and first-rate food made for a memorable ‘vibe dining’ meal.
As delicious as it was Instagrammable, there’s every chance of spotting a celeb or undercover agent on the next table.
Yellowfin tuna tartare (£18) and braised beef short rib (£30) were two dishes that stood out from an impressively expansive menu.
The hotel’s breakfast options were plentiful in a relaxed, self-service set-up.
And Bao Yum restaurant – found in a cafe space adjoining the lobby – is open all day for Asian style-street food.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE
The Westminster has its own private bowling alley, plus a 13th-floor gym with panoramic views for users to marvel at between reps. Several sunlit function rooms are available to hire for business or personal events – all named after a famous British spy.
Easily reached from London’s main travel hubs, the hotel helps shrink the capital into a walkable and accessible city, offering an ideal springboard to explore. Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Tate Britain are all close neighbours, with many more cultural hotspots just a short tube ride away.
WAKE-UP CALL
Rooms from £165 per night. hotelwestminster.co.uk