Rub shoulders with celebrities, politicians and maybe even James Bond.
If you were to set a film in London, it would probably star Hugh Grant, Emily Blunt and the five-star hotel, Corinthia London. The luxury hotel boasts an old-world British charm, from the doormen in top hats to the Victorian building – and it even featured in the James Bond films No Time To Die and Skyfall. Located near Trafalgar Square, it is within walking distance of blockbuster sights including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street.
Corinthia London opened in 2011. Not only is it close to the seat of power, but the building was home to the Ministry of Defence in the 1930s. Now, it’s common to see politicians frequenting the bars and restaurants. On one visit, I sat at a table between British politician Phillip Hammond and Irish actor Domhnall Gleeson and overheard conversations ranging from running the country to selecting scripts. And, over the years, it has hosted A-list afterparties for award shows and premieres.
Rooms and suites
Corinthia London spans 283 rooms, suites and penthouses. Look out for rooms with the I’m-in-London view, from the London Eye to The View from the Shard. We checked into the Executive Room – it was a case of Instagram versus reality, however, as our view looked directly onto a building with scaffolding.
Spanning 45 square metres, the bedroom and bathroom feel as big as each other, and are connected by a corridor with a walk-in-wardrobe. The bedroom includes a circular desk, plush chairs and a king-size bed with a Hypnos mattress. Everything has been elegantly designed in beige, brown and white colours. The stylish details range from the artistic gold mirror to the pink lamp stand.
The bathroom is one of the best we’ve seen in London. It’s rare to get something so spacious. The features include a bathtub with a TV, rainfall shower, two sinks and ESPA products. Plus, we loved the fresh flowers.
Restaurants and bars
Corinthia London is home classic as well as creative restaurants and bars. Chef Andre Garrett is behind The Northall’s European menu. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the restaurant. While The Full English felt petite for £33, we loved the brimming buffet with fresh fruits and pretty pastries.
When celebrity chef Tom Kerridge decided to open his first restaurant in London, he chose to do it in this luxurious location. Kerridge's offers his take on British classics, which includes a fancy fish and chips in the form of Deep Fried Cornish Haddock and Chips.
Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese is a Champagne and cocktail bar. With its red velvet curtains, cushions and sofas, it oozes an old Hollywood glamour. Drawing inspiration from icons ranging from Coco Chanel to Walt Disney, the menu fuses together history and modernity. Plus, The Crystal Moon Lounge serves afternoon tea, The Northall Bar is a dramatic room for drinks, and The Garden is an alfresco gem for Italian food.
Facilities
ESPA Life at Corinthia is the perfect urban spa. Having visited the spa countless times for treatments, this is my favourite spa in London. What it lacks in sun, sea or sand, it makes up for with its dazzling design. When you walk down the long corridor, it feels like you are escaping from the chaos of the city. A marble staircase connects the four floors, and as you descend the design becomes darker from browns to black.
The spa includes 17 treatment rooms, an ice fountain, a pool, a sauna and a steam room. The treatments range from facials to massages, spanning sport, Swedish and Thai techniques. Plus, there is a state-of-the-art gym and Daniel Galvin at The Corinthia hair salon.
After visiting Corinthia London many times and finally staying in the hotel, one thing remains consistent: the service. Whether you are going to a restaurant or the spa, the staff are exceptional.
Corinthia London: A British beauty.
GO: Visit www.corinthia.com for more information.