Are you looking for a unique and stylish hotel experience in the heart of London? If so, The Mandrake might be the perfect fit for you. This hotel is known for its vibrant atmosphere, bohemian design, and top-notch service.
A Bit of Mystery and a Trendy Vibe
Finding The Mandrake is a bit of an adventure. The hotel doesn’t have a traditional sign outside, so you’ll need to know what to look for. It’s conveniently located near Oxford Street, but tucked away on a slightly less polished stretch. Don’t worry, you can find it easily with the help of Google Maps. The doorman will greet you with a warm smile, and you’ll immediately feel the hotel’s unique vibe. He’s not your typical doorman – he’s more like a friendly host at a trendy bar.
A Small, but Stylish Lobby
The Mandrake’s lobby is small, but it’s packed with personality. The modern and bohemian style is evident in every detail. The staff, dressed in individualistic styles, are as friendly and professional as the doorman. You’ll be handed an electronic key fob with a tassel, which is a bit bulky, but you can leave it at reception if you wish.
An Unexpected Journey to Your Room
To reach your room, you’ll have to navigate through the hotel’s lively bar. This might be fun during the day, but it can be a bit tiring to negotiate the bouncers in the evening. Then, you’ll take a lift in a rather plain area that feels like a service entrance. The lift is secure, and you’ll need your key fob to access the floors.
A Cozy Courtyard with a Catch
The rooms are clustered around a central courtyard, which sounds like a great idea. And, indeed, the design of the courtyard is visually appealing. However, the practicalities of this design are a bit of a challenge. My room was very small, with floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that opened onto the courtyard. This means that staff constantly walked by outside my room, making it feel like a public space. I felt like I had to keep the curtains closed most of the time, which made the room feel rather gloomy.
A Stylish But Not Very Practical Room
The room itself was stylish, but it felt too small for its £300-per-night price tag. The desk was especially cramped, with only a stool for sitting. While the design was impressive, it didn’t seem like comfort and practicality were top priorities. The lack of a Nespresso machine or even a kettle was surprising at this level of hotel. However, the staff were helpful and brought me a kettle and tea tray on request.
Noise and Sleep Disruption
The main issue I had with the room was noise. The lack of soundproofing, combined with the sunny weather and constant activity in the courtyard, made it difficult to relax. I felt like I was in the middle of a party, even with earplugs. The bed was also too firm for my liking, so I had a very bad night’s sleep.
A Lovely Bathroom with a Quirky Detail
The bathroom, like the room, was on the small side, but it was beautifully designed. I loved the marble floor and walls, the underfloor heating, and the fresh flowers. However, the bathrobe was comically small and hardly covered the essentials.
A Lively Bar and Delicious Breakfast
The Waeska bar at The Mandrake is a must-visit. It’s a lively and stylish spot with a great atmosphere. You can enjoy the outdoor terrace in warm weather, or cozy up inside. The bar specializes in botanical cocktails, crafted by expert mixologists.
Breakfast was included in my room rate, and it was a delicious experience. The menu offered a wide variety of dishes, including fresh fruit, avocado toast with poached eggs, and a great selection of teas.
Wellness and Extras
The Mandrake doesn’t have a traditional gym, pool, or spa. But, they do offer a range of wellness services, including Lomi Lomi massages, Reiki, and gong baths. The front desk staff were very helpful and provided concierge-like assistance.
The Final Verdict
Overall, The Mandrake is a stylish and unique hotel with a vibrant atmosphere. The staff are friendly and professional, the bar is lively, and the breakfast is delicious. However, the small room size, lack of soundproofing, and firm bed might not be for everyone. If you’re a young traveler who enjoys a bustling atmosphere and doesn’t mind a bit of noise, The Mandrake could be a perfect fit for you. Just be sure to book through Secret Escapes for the best deals!
