SPOTLIGHT ON LONDON'S LUXURY NEW HOTELS OPENING 2016

We've chosen our top three hotel openings to look forward in 2016 so that you can get planning your stay!

Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square

Tower Bridge, London

Part of a string of new Four Seasons opening all across the world, the Ten Trinity Square is an iconic London landmark. A grade II listed building, it oozes elegance and grandeur with its intricate stone statues and sculptures - a perfect match for the Four Seasons legacy!

Intercontinental London at the O2

Waterview Drive, Greenwich, London

A very clever move by the Intercontinental Group, finally a hotel within walking distance of the mighty O2 arena! The hotel will maintain its world renown reputation of excellent service and top facilities across all of its 453 rooms, we're most excited about the 18th floor sky bar which will no doubt offer some truly stunning views of the Thames.

Nobu Shoreditch

Willow Street, Shoreditch, London

The third establishment of the ever expanding Nobu chain headed by actor Robert De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is due to open in trendy Shoreditch with 156 rooms across five floors. 

If you'd like some more information please check our website for London's finest hotels or give us a call +44 2077249911 

OUR TOP PICKS THIS CHRISTMAS

December is nearly upon us and with that in mind we've put together some of our favourite things to do in London during the festive season.....

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

20 November - 3 January 2016

Although it can become a little crowded, it never fails to get us into the Christmas spirit. The endless list of attractions including an ice bar, circus tent, Ferris wheel and market stalls all combine to create a warm and festive atmosphere.

Belgravia Christmas Market

Sunday 7 December 2015

A day for all the family, Elizabeth Street and Pimlico Road play host to bustling market stalls, choirs, brass bands, boutique markets and most importantly Santa himself!

Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum

29 October - 3 January 2016

The iconic Christmas activity and great family fun, whether it's your first time or fiftieth! Glide around under the infamous Museum and warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine afterwards. For a more adult feel go in the evening as it doesn't get much more romantic than skating under the twinkling lights of the night sky.

Hogwarts in the Snow 

13 November - 31 January 2016

A must - see for every Harry Potter fan, dive into the wizarding world when Hogwarts is at its best, where fires will be lit and visitors can experience first hand the enchantment of a Hogwarts Christmas.

THE GORING'S 'DINING ROOM' GAINS MICHELIN STAR

 Last week's announcement of the Michelin Guide's 2016 winners saw only four London restaurants gain new stars; one of whom is the gorgeous Dining Room at the Goring Hotel. The restaurant, headed by Chef Shay Cooper, brings British food to life with inspired modern British classics made from the freshest produce - all served in fine Edwardian surroundings (in true Goring Style!).

The award winning team comprises of Cooper, Head Sommelier Olivier Clausse and Manager Miko Jappinen who combine forces each day for the sole purpose of 'delighting their guests'. Michelin said of the Dining Room 'The menu is an appealing mix of British classics and lighter, more modern dishes, all prepared with great skill and understanding'. This year has been a fantastic one for The Goring who recently enjoyed a full refurbishment, we wish them the best of luck in their continued success as a true historic London institution.

If you'd like to book a stay at the Goring or would like some more information, please visit our website or give us a call 020 7724 9911

TUESDAY TOP TEN: BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE WORLD 2015

Here are the best restaurants in the world as picked by the San Pellegrino 'World's 50 Best Restaurants' awards.

10. Gaggan

Bangkok, Thailand

Serving progressive Indian fare, chef Gaggan Anand's food is inspired by the street food of his childhood and continues to push boundaries by reinventing traditional Indian cuisine.

9. D.O.M.

Sao Paolo, Brazil

The inspiration behind Alex Atala's D.O.M. is his love for his native Brazil. A DJ turned chef, he frequently sets off deep into the Amazon to explore and unearth never before tasted flavours for his guests to delight in. 

8. Narisawa

Tokyo, Japan

Although a more cosmopolitan affair with distinct French undertones, Narisawa stays true to its Japanese roots with a focus on unique Japanese ingredients. From fugu to sea snake, Narisawa's dining experience is not one to be missed.

7. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

London, England

London's very own Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental continues to amaze diners with Heston's signature extravagant dishes. Famed for his experimental cuisine, Dinner offers traditional English food dating back hundreds of years all finished with Heston's inimitable boisterous flavours and modern cooking techniques.

6. Mugaritz

San Sebastian, Spain

Conventional dining is done with at Mugaritz where diners aren't offered a menu but instead are treated to 24 tasting dishes tailored to their tastes and preference. Examples of Aduriz's quirky cuisine include edible cutlery and dishes which tell a story through sight, taste and smell for a complete sensory experience.

5. Eleven Madison Park

New York, USA

'Modern French with a New York twist', here diners are treated to fantastic food with impeccable service. A stand-out feature of E.M.P. is its endeavour to ensure that guests are wowed by their food, they even go as far as researching each of their guests for the evening in order to tailor each dish to their specific likes and dislikes. 

4. Central

Lima, Peru

Taking diners on 'a vertical journey across Peru's landscape', Central sources traditional Peruvian produce to capture its vast array of flavours and tastes. Drawing on Peru's extensive resources, diners are transported to the mountains, sea, deserts and jungle through Cental's gorgeous tasting menu. 

3. Noma

Copenhagen, Denmark

Last year's top spot and heralded as 'one of the most influential restaurants of the 21st century', Noma continues to astound with its changing seasonal menu and its passion for more alternative cooking methods such as fermenting and pickling. 

2. Osteria Francescana

Modena, Italy 

Massimo Bottura's elegant restaurant in the quiet backstreets of Modena has been thrilling diners with contemporary takes on Italian greats for twenty years. Inspired by art and music, Bottura continues to uphold his international reputation with exquisite dishes such as rabbit macaroons and 

suckling pig with balsamic vinegar.

1. El Celler de Can Roca

Girona, Spain

The brainchild of the three Roca brothers, each bringing their unique style and flair allowing El Celler de Can Roca to be crowned the best restaurant in the world. Joan, Jordi and and Josep combine to create an unbeatable team of chef, pastry chef and sommelier allowing them to tailor every aspect of a meal for the discerning diner's pleasure. El Celler references traditional Spanish cuisine with avant-garde techniques all served in a humble restaurant with a distinct familial warmth for a dining experience unlike any other in the world. 

If you'd like to find out more about our favourite London restaurants, check out our website

FRIDAY FEATURE: 5 THINGS TO DO THIS BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

The May bank holiday weekend is finally here and for those of us choosing to stay in the capital over the next three days, here are some ideas to help you make the best of your long weekend....

Stay in a luxury hotel

Many people living in London or those visiting frequently have never experienced the tourist attractions that people travel far and wide to witness. Seize the opportunity and explore our amazing city! Stays at the Savoy or Corinthia hotels allow easy access to the city's glittering West End with Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square nearby, or, opt for a Knightsbridge hotel such as the Mandarin Oriental or the Bulgari if you're in the mood for some shopping.

Museums and Art Galleries

Take advantage of London's vast array of museums and art galleries. From the British Museum in Russell Square, one of the finest in the world with more than 7 million artefacts on show, to the Tate Modern on Southbank housing the best in modern art from 1900 onwards, there is something to cater for all tastes.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds are celebrating the release of the new Star Wars film with a Star Wars display. The feature comprises of 16 of the series' life-sized heroes and villains as well as the films' most iconic moments offering visitors a 'unique and immersive experience'.

Luxury Picnic in a Royal Park

Pass by renowned Fortnum and Mason and pick up a luxury picnic hamper to enjoy in nearby Green Park. A wide range of themed picnics are available catering from 2 to 10 people making it a lovely day out for all the family - weather permitting!

Electric Cinema

If the weather's a little less favourable, head down to the Electric Cinema in Dalston or Portobello Road where you can watch great movies in style. Having replaced the traditional cinema seat with arm chairs, beds and sofas all with foot stalls and cashmere blankets for your comfort, the Electric takes cinema back to the golden age of film providing a sense of occasion and romance.

If you'd like any more information regarding London hotels please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONDON'S BEST HOTEL BARS

Visiting London? Make the most of your stay by checking out some of the world's finest bars, from contemporary cocktails to classic aged Whiskeys, this is our list of some of London's best hotel bars to help keep you 'hydrated'.

Vista

The Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square SW1A 2TS

The Trafalgar's 'Vista' aptly translates to ' The View', stunningly situated above Trafalgar Square, Vista's roof terrace on top of the Trafalgar hotel offers a sense of tranquillity among the chaos of London's famous square. It's a classy affair with an abundance of black wicker, scatter cushions and even its own herb garden.

Open early April, Monday - Saturday 12pm - 1am and Sundays 12pm - 10pm
020 7870 2900

   

                                                                                

Artesian

The Langham Hotel, Portland Place, W1B 1JA

Heralded by Drinks International as the 'World's Best Bar' for three years running, 'Artesian' at the Langham Hotel combines Alex Kratena's unique cocktail creativity with a playful David Collins' interior, providing a drinking experience like no other. Kratena's inimitable cocktails pervade all of the senses guaranteeing an unforgettable and fun evening.

Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 2am and Sundays 11am - 12am
020 7636 1000

The Connaught Bar

Connaught Hotel, Mayfair, W1K 2AL

A sense of occasion and glamour, the Connaught Bar is the ideal place for celebration and luxury. Another of David Collins' interior masterpieces, inspired by Edwardian fashion and decor, provides the perfect ambience to enjoy the extensive cocktail menu and impress your guests.

Open Monday - Saturday 4pm - 1am

020 7499 7070

Dukes

Dukes Hotel, St. James' Place, SW1A 1NY

If Martini is your choice tipple then look no further! Stocked with choice ingredients selected by Dukes' own cocktail maestro Alessandro Palazzi, this hotel bar offers contemporary drinks whilst also catering to those with a more classic palate.

Open Monday - Saturday 2pm - 11pm and Sundays 4pm - 10.30pm

020 7431 4840

Dandelyan

Mondrian London Hotel, Southbank, SE1 9PD

The combination of breathtaking river views and Tom Dixon's interior design is what defines Dandelyan as one of the city's best hotel bars. However, its rooftop location overlooking the glittering city light is not its only draw, the botany inspired drinks menu designed by Ryan Chetiyawardana (of White Lyan in Shoreditch) make drinking here guilt free (almost!) and above all an absolute pleasure.

Open Monday - Wednesday 4pm - 1am, Thursday - Saturday 12pm - 1.30am and Sundays 12pm - 12.30am 

0203 747 1000

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: CHARMING KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA

A favourite among our clients is the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, with numerous luxury hotels in its vicinity, its no wonder why Chelsea is one of London's more affluent communities. We've put together a mini guide to Chelsea with some of its best restaurants and attractions so that you can make the most of your stay.

Restaurants

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HP

Established in 1998, the restaurant has grown from strength to strength and has been a proud holder of three Michelin stars since 2001. Ramsay's experience as a restaurateur speaks for itself - owning twelve restaurants in the capital alone, the restaurant is headed by Chef Patron Clare Smyth MBE, who is the only female Chef in the UK to run a restaurant with such an accolade. A combination of stellar service and inspired French cuisine, this restaurant is sure to impress.

Bluebird

King's Road, SW3 5UU

A west London institution. Bluebird encompasses a cafe, wine cellar, food shop and restaurant ensuring a buzzing atmosphere. Ideal for meeting with friends for cocktails then moving on to dinner or just to grab a quick lunch.

Zuma

Raphael Street, SW7 1AL

Sporting an extremely glamorous interior to make its guests feel at home, first class service one would expect and impeccable food, Zuma continues to fight off competitors with its dining experience. Twelve years since its opening, it is still one of the top Japanese restaurants in London and we believe it will continue to be for many years. 

Launceston Place

Launceston Place, W8 5RL

This eaterie has welcomed top notch guests for decades now and continues to do so, supported by its two Michelin stars. Once a favourite of Princess Diana, the restaurant offers a seasonally inspired British menu accompanied by a fantastic wine list provided by head sommelier Agustin Trapero (Winner of 2013's Best Wine List).

Things To Do

Shop on Sloane Street

Renown for its exclusive clientèle, the famous street is home to multiple designer flagships from Gucci and Dior to Cartier and La Perla, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Victoria & Albert Museum

SW7 2RL
Admission Free
Open 10am - 5.45pm

Established in 1852, the world's greatest museum of art and design can be found in Knightsbridge with a fantastic collection of more modern exhibits. Be sure not to miss its latest exhibition 'Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty' which has had critics raving since its opening, we're also particularly excited for the upcoming 'All of this Belongs to You', highlighting Britain's democratic election process by examining the role of public institutions in contemporary life. The Natural History museum and the Science museum are also nearby.

Saatchi Gallery

King's Road SW3 4RY

Admission Free
Open 10am - 6pm

Art tycoon Charles Saatchi's gallery exhibits contemporary art and has a dedicated space for emerging young artists. Since his move to art from advertising in the early 90's Saatchi has been been held in great esteem for his support of artists such as his work with contemporary greats Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. 

The Curzon Chelsea

King's Road SW3 5XP

Home to London's largest screen outside of the West End , a fully licensed bar and plenty of leg room to get cosy with a loved one, this is the true way to cinema in style.

Hotels

As one would expect Kensington and Chelsea has a plethora of luxury hotels awaiting to take care of your every need, these include:

The Milestone

The Baglioni

Belgraves

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911.

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONDON'S PRE THEATRE MENUS TO ROUND OFF THE PERFECT EVENING

Night out at the theatre? Then why not complete the evening with a meal at one of these restaurants, offering pre-theatre menus (and some post), they're a perfect start or finish to a night on the town

Nopi

Warwick Street, W1

Hidden in Soho, Yotam Ottolenghi's Nopi carries his signature white decor, coloured by his vibrant dishes. His statement salads and Mediterranean inspired cuisine such as courgette and feta fritters, are a brilliant way to kick off a night.

Theatre menu available Monday - Friday 5.30pm - 6.30pm, dishes are to share at £24.50 pp.
Closest to: Criterion Theatre, Soho Theatre, Lyric Theatre

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The Jugged Hare

Chiswell Street, EC1Y 4SA

Amidst Moorgate's sky scrapers, with an air of a country gentleman's retreat, lies The Jugged Hare. Decked with stuffed hares and hanging pheasants it is no surprise that its speciality is game.

Theatre menu available everyday 5.30pm - 6.30pm, and post theatre 9.30pm - 11.30pm. £22 for two courses, £27 for three.

Closest to: The Barbican Theatre

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Wilton's

Jermyn Street, SW1Y 6LX

The epitome of English dining, one of London's oldest restaurants (established in 1742) provides more than just a meal. With a rich history laid out for all to see on its walls and 'Harry the Lobster' embossed on its dish ware evidencing its focus on seafood (reflected in the theatre menu), Wilton's guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.

Theatre menu available Monday - Friday 5.30pm - 7.00pm and Saturday 5.30pm - 10.30pm, £30 for two courses, £38 for three.
Closest to: Criterion Theatre, Piccadilly Theatre, Lyric Theatre, Apollo Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket, Her Majesty's Theatre

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Portrait

National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2H 0HE

Located at the top of the National Portrait Gallery, Portrait puts on a show of its own thanks to its perfect location. Portrait's views of London are guaranteed to impress diners, with Big Ben, Nelson's Column and the London Eye all within eye's reach, creating its very own portrait. The food isn't overshadowed either, offering a changing seasonal theatre menu,

Theatre menu available Thursday - Saturday 5.30pm - 6.30pm with last orders at 6.45pm £17.50 for two courses, £20.50 for three.

Closest to: London Coliseum, Her Majesty's Theatre, Theatre Royal, Duke of York's Theatre, Savoy, Adelphi Theatre, Cambridge Theatre, Donmar Warehouse, Noel Coward

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Almeida

Almeida Street, N1 1AD

Recently listed in the top 150 restaurants in the Daily Telegraph's 'Good Food Guide', Almeida offers 'British food with a French accent'. At its helm is Michelin star trained chef Tommy Boland (previously Head Chef at Tom Aikens), who armed with accomplished waiter/sommeliers delivers fantastic dishes.

Theatre menu available 5.30pm - 7.30pm and 9.30pm to close. Two courses £17 and £20 for three.
Closest to: Almeida Theatre, King's Heat Theatre, Old Red Lion Theatre, Little Angel Theatre


Check out our guide to this year's unmissable plays and musicals

To find out about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911.

TOP TEN: BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN LONDON

If you're looking for an intimate, more personal hotel, a boutique hotel is the choice for you. Boutique hotels are smaller than traditional hotels with a more individual feel, without compromising their luxury or grandeur. The following hotels are some of London's finest five star establishments, offering a wide range of amenities and facilities all the while retaining their boutique feel.

45 Park Lane

45 Park Lane exudes style and glamour with its Art Deco inspired interior and deep natural furnishings, all the while remaining warm and welcoming. As its name suggests, its location is rather enviable, situated near London's exclusive Knightsbridge with views overlooking the infamous Hyde Park. 45 Park Lane is home to Wolfgang Puck's fantastic CUT restaurant which provides a novel approach to its classic steak and chips themed menu.

The Baglioni

From the moment you walk into reception the Baglioni oozes Italian style and chic, its cascading waterfall feature offset by oversized gold vases set the precedent for each of its 67 rooms. On its doorstep lies the gorgeous Kensington Gardens which can be enjoyed from its alfresco dining terrace area. Guests can also lap up the luxury in the Brunello Restaurant which serves cutting edge Italian cuisine accompanied by an impressive wine list stocking over 500 labels.

Browns

London's first luxury hotel, Browns is steeped in history. A charming bastion of sophistication and refinement, apparent in each of its 117 rooms, it continues to remain one of London's most private and secluded luxury establishments. Quintessentially British, it's no surprise Browns' Hix Mayfair restaurant serves up one of London's best roasts along with a fantastic afternoon tea.

Bulgari

An outpost of the high fashion brand, its name alone incites a sense of sumptuous style. Guests are greeted at reception by a mix of cool steel and marble furnishings creating a sensational sultry feel, a grand steel staircase sweeps down from the bar area to Bulgari's sleek Rivea restaurant which serves the finest Italian cuisine. Along with 24 hour butler service, the Bulgari also boasts more staff than there are rooms, all of whom are always on hand to fulfil guests' every request.

The Connaught

Due to its recent renovation, the Connaught is a mix of contemporary amenities in a classic, more traditional setting. The best of both worlds, guests can choose between traditional rooms with a more classic, subtle elegance or rooms finished with clean lines and striking modernity. Although a London luxury staple since 1897, the Connaught consistently continues to be at the forefront of excellent service, year upon year the Connaught bar tops the list of world's best bar. 

The Milestone

Found in classy Kensington, one thing this charming hotel isn't short on is character. An exclusive hotel, with only 57 rooms to cater for, enabling staff to provide a personal and tailor made service for each guest. Each of their rooms is individually designed and immaculately finished, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience with each stay. 

The Wellesley

At the forefront of London's most exclusive and private hotels lies the Wellesley. This Knightsbridge hotel offers an intimate stay with only 36 rooms, without compromising on any five star luxuries. Rooms are stylish with an Art Deco inspired design, adorned with the latest pieces from the contemporary art scene. A personal favourite of this London hotel is its cigar terrace, stocked with the finest vintage Havanas and limited edition Behikes.

Belgraves

Thompson's first hotel in Europe, this ultra trendy and style conscious hotel mixes a New York fashion feel with a carefully thought out British design. Describing itself as 'Britannia meets Bohemia', its ideal location in Knightsbridge, a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, makes it the perfect base for those wanting to explore London

The Halkin

This hotel is perfect for guests in search of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of London. A large renovated townhouse with soft curving corridors and bright rooms overlooking a courtyard garden finished in clean natural tones, all located in a peaceful Belgravia street allowing guests to be near the action but not in it.

Looking for a hotel? Check out our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911