It wasn’t the worst dilemma to have – stay snuggled under the sheets a little longer versus hit the shops before the weekend crowds rolled in. Eventually the fast approaching end of the breakfast service provided the motivation I needed to remove myself from bed. Bacon always does the trick, doesn’t it?
One Aldwych is one of my favourite places to stay in London. With a discreet entrance that you’ll miss if you aren’t looking for it, One Aldwych combines a perfect Central London location with style and sophistication. Found in the heart of Theatre-land, you can spy on crowds leaving Mamma Mia from your bedroom and eager ticket buyers queueing outside The Lion King while at the breakfast table. All the shops, restaurants and attractions of Covent Garden are within arm’s reach but you’re completely shielded from the hustle and bustle of London by the serene atmosphere of the hotel.
One of the things I love about the rooms at the One Aldwych rooms are their simplicity. The luxury of this property can be felt in the sumptuous sheets, the bubbling bath products and single orchid resting near a mint condition copy of Conde Nast Traveller magazine. Complimentary newspapers are tucked into the mail box outside the door and breakfast can be delivered to your bed at no extra cost.
After the first morning’s dilemma of bed versus breakfast I wizened up and filled out the breakfast card for delivery the next day. With eyes bigger than my belly I requested a full English, toast, pastries, coffee and orange juice and what a delight it was to wake up to this immaculately presented tray of treats (which I confess I pretty much polished off!).
Dinner on the first evening had been a delicious affair too. Hiding on the hotel’s lower level is Eneko at One Aldwych, where renowned chef Eneko Atxa offers Basque country cuisine with an innovative twist. Feeling a little jet lagged after my flight from Oz, I opted to nibble on a selection of entrees instead of tucking into a main and the Basque Duck Liver Parfait, Avocado Tempura and warm and gooey Cheese Croquettes I ordered were just the ticket.
The wait staff were extremely knowledgeable and friendly, as was everyone else I encountered during the course of my stay at One Aldwych. From the moment I arrived I felt well cared for, even when I attempted to check in before my room was ready. Rather than make me feel like a pain the check in clerk kindly offered me a shower and cup of tea while I waited and when I opted for a walk instead was so good as to call my mobile the minute housekeeping had finished. No matter how far you’ve travelled when someone makes you feel like they care for your wellbeing it sets the tone for a wonderful stay.
Although I didn’t have time to visit on this trip (because: shopping) I know from a previous stay that the hotel’s spa and pool (with underwater music and mood lighting) are a cocoon of bliss. Readers also told me on social media (sadly after I’d left) that the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea served in the Lobby Bar is mouthful after mouthful of molten bliss. (Duly noted for my next visit!)
After my weekend exploring (read: shopping) the city I strolled back to the hotel over Waterloo Bridge and it struck me how much of London’s best bits are literally on the doorstep of One Aldwych. The only problem is they’ve made the place so cosy you’ll struggle to leave.
Thank you to One Aldwych for hosting my stay with them. For more information and room rates visit the One Aldwych website.
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