The United Kingdom’s stylish city centre shows no signs of slowing down its quest to be the reigning kingdom of cool.
The May Fair London (themayfairhotel.co.uk)
Located in the heart of London’s West End, the May Fair, first opened by King George V in 1927, is a five-star luxury hotel with a storied past but an ever-modern present. Indeed large (the hotel has over 400 bedrooms varying in hierarchy from the bubble gum pink Schiparelli Suite – named after the famed designer – to family-style accommodations), guests will revel in the personal attention to detail like the awe-inspiring Baccarat chandeliers and the endless vases of fresh-cut seasonal flowers. Cited as the official hotel for London Fashion Week, sip their signature “Destination London” martini; a sinful mix of strawberry stoli and double cream, while watching Hollywood party people by the likes of Peaches Geldof and Pink come and go.
One Aldwych (onealdwych.co.uk)
What strawberries are to cream, high-class panache is to One Aldwych. When the doors opened in 1998 all of the town’s elite descended upon this contemporary property, and the buzz has yet to cease ever since (60% of their business is repeat.) Walking distance from Theatreland, the hotel is covered in over 400 private modern pieces of art and sculpture. The collection, chosen specifically by One Aldwych’s visionary – and private owner - Gordon Campbell Gray is an amusing smattering of newcomers Joost Beerenths and Mimei Thompson which are cozied up to established talents like Cecilia Vargas and Richard Walker. But alas, the artwork is not the only feast for the eyes. The rooms are positively spectacular both inside and out. Offering outdoor views of London’s quintessential landmarks, inside revel in the soft Frette bed linens, rain showers and all-natural beauty products courtesy of REN. Perhaps the most exquisite detail is best surmised by the hotel’s beguiling Public Relations Director, Howard Rombough: “Our guests can’t possibly live a day without fresh fruit and flowers at the One Aldwych.”
Relax over a decadent aged cheddar soufflé and braised beef Bourguignon at Axis One Aldwych before you head to their private screening room to watch fashion films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Coco Before Chanel, further complimented by your own personal pint-sized bottle of Moët & Chandon. Don’t worry; they supply the popcorn!
For a funky stay, check out The Zetter on the next page ...
