HOTEL OF THE WEEK
South Kensington, London
WHERE AND WHY: The fivestar Adria reopened earlier this year following a £1million renovation and is a lesson in understated opulence.
The boutique hotel’s 24 suites, rooms and lounges marry contemporary design with the elegance of a 19th-century townhouse. Ring the doorbell and you step into a world of luxury, where nothing is too much trouble.
From the complimentary glass of prosecco as we were checked in to our huge bedroom with its high ceilings, dreamy bed and antique fireplace, I felt less like a hotel guest and more like I’d been invited to stay at the home of a wealthy friend. ON THE MENU: The Adria offers an extensive a la carte breakfast menu that guests can take in their own room, the breakfast room or one of the lounges. Or perhaps you’d prefer to eat your porridge in the pretty winter garden.
Prices start from £4 for fresh pastries, to £15 for a plate of eggs Benedict with salmon.
For the ultimate ordering-in experience, the Adria has partnerships with a number of local restaurants, including Nobu and farm shop Daylesford. Simply choose what you want and the spot in the hotel where you want to eat it.
If you prefer to dine out, however, nearby Exhibition Road is awash with cafes and bistros.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE: The Adria is right by some of London’s biggest attractions. The Natural History Museum and the V&A are less than 10 minutes’ walk away, with Kensington Gardens a few steps further.
WAKE-UP CALL: Rooms from £395pn B&B. theadria.com