The Herald - The Herald Magazine
CHECKOUT
THREE OF THE BEST WAYS TO EXPERIENCE LONDON IN THE SPIRIT OF MARY POPPINS THE MILESTONE HOTEL AND RESIDENCES
Just in time for Christmas, Mary Poppins Returns is set to be the feelgood movie of the season. From adults who remember the original 1964 starring Julie Andrews to younger viewers eager to be enthralled, the entire family will find delight in the hotly anticipated Disney sequel. Inspired by the story’s London setting, some hotels are offering themed packages to celebrate the release.
On arrival at this mansion hotel, located opposite Kensington Palace and Gardens, children will be presented with a silver chocolate tuppence which they can exchange for a bird-feeding kit from the concierge team. It’s the perfect recipe for an afternoon spent making avian friends in nearby Hyde Park. There’s also an opportunity to go fly a kite in the Italian Garden at Kensington Gardens; for £40, it’s yours to keep. A Spoonful of Sugar afternoon tea features a chocolate pastry inspired by Mary Poppins’ hat, a black chimney sweep macaron and kite-shaped biscuits covered in cherry ganache, served with cocktails and mocktails presented in medicine bottles.
How: Available until January 31, the Practically Perfect hotel stay starts from £540 per night (with two sharing). The afternoon tea, served daily at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm, can be booked separately, costing £50 for adults and £25 for children. Visit milestonehotel.com
MERCURE LONDON HYDE PARK HOTEL
Making the most of its west London location, this Victorian townhouse