The Londoner, a cutting-edge hotel that boldly proclaims itself as the world’s first super boutique hotel, opened its doors in September 2021, slightly delayed due to the global pandemic. I had been eagerly anticipating its debut and was delighted to finally experience its charm during a weekend stay in March 2022. While a couple of minor mishaps occurred, they barely dampened the overall enjoyment of my visit.
This luxurious haven transports you to another realm, despite its central location on Leicester Square. The hotel’s exceptional design and construction, along with its impeccable service, exceptional amenities, and unique ambiance, create a truly memorable experience.
Would I return? Absolutely! The Londoner has become one of my favorite spots in London, and I would gladly visit again. The hotel offers a diverse selection of unique spaces for dining, drinking, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for any occasion.
A Prime Location for Exploration
Nestled in the heart of London, The Londoner occupies a prime location on the southwest corner of Leicester Square. A short stroll away, you’ll find the bustling Piccadilly Underground station and Leicester Square Underground station, providing convenient access to the city’s vast transportation network.
Step outside the hotel and you’ll be immersed in the vibrant energy of London’s most renowned districts. Chinatown, with its exotic flavors and aromas, is just across the square. Soho’s eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and theaters is within easy reach, and the cultural hub of Covent Garden is a short walk away. A short distance further, Regent Street, known for its high-end boutiques, intersects with Oxford Street, offering an array of high-street shopping experiences.
Movie buffs will be spoiled for choice with multiple cinemas on the doorstep, including the Odeon cinema housed within the hotel itself. Nearby theaters showcase some of London’s most popular shows and musicals. The area is also teeming with a seemingly endless array of bars and restaurants, along with iconic landmarks like the Lego store and M&M’s World.
Luxurious Accommodations: From Deluxe Kings to Tower Penthouses
The Londoner offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Choose from Deluxe King rooms, Deluxe King City View rooms, Junior Suites, and Corner Suites. For a truly luxurious experience, indulge in the Capital, Signature, or Tower Penthouse Suite, offering breathtaking views of London’s iconic skyline.
We began our stay in a Deluxe King room, which epitomized elegance and sophistication. The room was meticulously designed with a keen eye for detail, featuring stunning views and a harmonious blend of neutral colors, rich materials, and subtle wood paneling punctuated with pops of color. The open-plan bathroom impressed with its bold tiling, colorful sink, separate walk-in shower, and a Japanese electronic Toto toilet. Every detail was spotless, sparkling, and equipped with everything you could desire, including a mini-bar, a large LCD television, a digital and Bluetooth-enabled Roberts radio, complimentary mineral water, a hairdryer, an electric steamer, robes, slippers, and binoculars. Miller Harris Tea Tonique toiletries, including shampoo, shower gel, conditioner, and body lotion, added a touch of luxury to the bathroom.
Following a minor housekeeping issue, we were upgraded to a Junior Suite, which was equally impressive. While maintaining the same stylish design aesthetic, the Junior Suite offered more spacious accommodations, including additional windows for an expanded view and the ability to open them for fresh air, though all rooms and suites are equipped with air conditioning. The bathroom in the Junior Suite was more enclosed but still exquisitely designed, boasting a larger shower and bath area. The suite also featured a reclining sofa, a small dining table with two chairs, a writing desk, and a chair, adding to its functionality and comfort.
Culinary Delights: From Fine Dining to Casual Bites
The Londoner’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its diverse dining options, providing guests with a gastronomic experience that rivals any Michelin-starred restaurant.
Breakfast is served in the elegant Whitcomb’s, a bi-level restaurant offering a sumptuous buffet. Start your day with fresh fruits, cereals, yoghurt, juices, and pastries, and then indulge in a full hot breakfast selection that includes an egg and omelette station. Teas and coffees are made to order, and a full a la carte menu is available upon request.
Whitcomb’s transforms into a fine dining French/Mediterranean inspired restaurant in the evenings, serving both lunch and dinner. Guests are warmly welcomed and recognized, and a special aperitif is offered to enhance the dining experience.
For pre-dinner drinks, Joshua’s Tavern offers a traditional pub setting with an exceptional selection of gins and carefully crafted Gintonicas.
After dinner, the concierge team can reserve a table at the Japanese-inspired izakaya lounge, 8 at The Londoner. This stylish lounge boasts stunning views of the London skyline through a glass wall, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. The lounge and the adjacent Shima Garden, which is only open at night, offer a variety of delicious food and drinks. The Shima Garden features a covered outdoor space with a retractable roof, a DJ, and heaters to ensure a cozy atmosphere.
For a more intimate experience, the guest-only Residence offers a secluded space to relax and unwind. Located up an amazing curved staircase above The Stage, which often features live music, the Residence features three distinct bar areas and a restaurant offering a limited casual menu. Complimentary teas, coffees, and soft drinks are served throughout the day, along with a selection of Italian antipasti. The Residence also features board games, an iMac, and a variety of newspapers and magazines for those who prefer to relax indoors. A hidden gem within the Residence is a small, secret whiskey bar perfect for a nightcap.
Champagne breakfasts and afternoon teas are served in the The Stage area, just off the main reception. For a healthy and refreshing option, the Refuel at the Retreat offers a selection of drinks and healthy snacks, which can also be enjoyed poolside.
The Retreat: A Sanctuary of Wellness
The Londoner’s commitment to guest well-being is embodied in its world-class spa, The Retreat, located on the lower level.
The Retreat offers a comprehensive range of amenities and services, including a large gym and fitness room fully equipped with the latest exercise equipment, a spa featuring treatment rooms, beautifully designed changing facilities, Refuel, a superfood and drinks clinic, and a style and beauty “street” with men’s grooming by Joe Vipond, Hair & Beauty by Hiro Miyoshi, and nails by AMA.
The spa area itself features a decent-sized swimming pool and hydropool surrounded by private cabanas. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments, including the Opium deep-tissue massage, which I highly recommend. The spa manager, Stefani, is deeply involved in the Retreat and makes a personal introduction to every guest, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Unforgettable Experiences: From Iconic London Views to Excellent Service
The Londoner is more than just a hotel; it’s an immersive experience that caters to every desire. From the breathtaking views of the London skyline from the Tower Penthouse Suite to the carefully curated atmosphere of each dining venue, every detail is designed to create lasting memories.
The hotel’s service is truly exceptional, from the warm welcome and informative tour upon arrival to the attentive staff at the bars, restaurants, and spa.
While a couple of minor issues arose during my stay, including a room hiccup and a slow service at The Stage, they were quickly resolved, and the overall experience was overwhelmingly positive.
The Londoner is a unique and unforgettable hotel that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for a luxurious and memorable stay in London.
