When it comes to hotels, there is luxury and then there is the Überlux experience; where you’re made to feel as though the staff have thought of everything you might want, even before you’ve had a chance to think of it yourself.
At One Aldwych in Central London, that is precisely the kind of treatment each guest receives.
Housed in a beautifully historical building, the hotel mixes traditional hospitality with modern twists and impeccable design.
On entering, the first thing that struck me was the contemporary design of the lobby bar.
The minimalistic sophistication is highlighted by the colour scheme of dark woods and lime green. The spacious lobby lends to a perfect space to hold an informal meeting, try some yummy tapas or as I did, sip on a beautiful champagne cocktail ;)
As I sat there in the lobby I observed, as business men sat amongst celebrities (I’m not one to name drop but – KEVIN SPACEY – ahem!) and bewitching fashion models. And all the while, staff at One Aldwych treated every guest as though they were an A-lister! The vip treatment is saved for every single guest ;)
A swift elevator ride took me up to my deluxe room on the 6th floor, where on entry I was greeted by the lovely aroma of a fresh bunch of flowers and some luscious fresh fruit in the form of two very plump nectarines. No naughty connotations intended! They really were plump.
Shortly after dropping my bags and laying down to test my 7ft bed (AMAZING by the way), the doorbell rang and in rolled a surprise room service delivery of a fine 2008 chablis and a little welcome note.
Perhaps we can blame the perfectly chilled wine but by this point I was already in love with One Aldwych. The gorgeously soft bed, the carefully chosen artwork in every room, the temperature dials and the deep bath tub were all factors that aided my cheshire cat smile.
And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, I remembered my reservation to dine at the hotel’s Indigo restaurant.
Indigo is one of two restaurants within the hotel – the other is called Axis.
Indigo serves up seasonal European cuisine and overlooks the earlier mentioned lobby bar.
After a starter of scallops with chorizo, I opted for the tender veal steak which was accompanied by a creative side helping of potatoes, anchovies and various vegetables. Heaven on a plate.
The great thing about dinner at Indigo, is that the prices are very reasonable and the food is beyond superb.
Other delights on the menu included the exquisite seared tuna….
Of course, breakfast at Indigo was just as impressive – with the freshest ingredients and a huge choice from continental to cockney. Black pudding with my English breakfast? Yes please.
But if the great service, dreamy mattresses and quality dining are not enough, just head down to the health club and take a dip in the chlorine free pool. There are also some lovely spa treatments to indulge yourself with.
I opted for the C+C facial which used Natura Bisse products and left me feeling so relaxed, that I actually fell asleep on the treatment table.
One Aldwych is a hotel that is willing to go the extra mile for its guests and I can guarantee that you will be very reluctant to leave when check-out time comes.
One Aldwych
City of London
WC2B 4BZ
