Imagine a hotel that seamlessly blends the bustling energy of Leicester Square with a serene, luxurious escape. That’s the magic of The Londoner, a dazzling new addition to the London hotel scene. Opened in September 2021, this self-proclaimed “super boutique hotel” has been on my radar for a while, and I couldn’t wait to experience its unique charm. My weekend stay in March 2022 was a delightful adventure, leaving me longing for a return trip.
A Prime Location in the Heart of London
The Londoner’s location couldn’t be more perfect. Nestled on the southwest corner of Leicester Square, it’s a stone’s throw from both Leicester Square and Piccadilly Underground stations. You’re right in the thick of things, with Chinatown across the square, Soho just a short stroll away, and Covent Garden within easy reach. Head towards Regent Street for high-end shopping, or continue to Oxford Street for a more mainstream experience. The area is teeming with entertainment options too, from the iconic Odeon cinema located within the hotel itself to numerous theaters showcasing London’s most popular shows and musicals. It’s a true haven for foodies too, with a seemingly endless array of bars and restaurants within walking distance, not to mention popular landmarks like the Lego store and M&M’s World.
Luxurious Accommodations for Every Traveler
The Londoner offers a variety of rooms to suit different tastes and budgets. From King and Deluxe King rooms with breathtaking city views to Junior and Corner Suites, there’s something for everyone. For the ultimate indulgence, the Capital, Signature, and Tower Penthouse Suite offer a two-story statement apartment with incredible panoramic views of the London skyline.
My stay began in a Deluxe King room, beautifully designed with meticulous attention to detail. The stunning views, neutral color palette, and subtle wood paneling, punctuated with pops of vibrant hues, created a truly captivating atmosphere. The open-plan bathroom featured bold tiling, a colorful sink, a separate walk-in shower, and a Japanese electronic Toto toilet. Everything was impeccably clean, sparkling, and equipped with all the amenities you could desire, including a mini-bar, a massive LCD TV, a Bluetooth-enabled Roberts radio, complimentary mineral water, a hairdryer, an electric steamer, plush robes, slippers, and binoculars. Miller Harris Tea Tonique toiletries added a touch of elegance to the experience.
After a minor housekeeping hiccup that was promptly resolved, I was upgraded to a Junior Suite, which was equally impressive. While the design mirrored the Deluxe King room, the Junior Suite offered more spaciousness, including extra windows for an even more expansive view that could be opened for fresh air. The bathroom, though slightly more enclosed, boasted a larger shower and bath area, but lacked a separate WC. The suite also featured a comfortable reclining sofa, a small dining table and chairs, and ample space for a writing desk and chair.
A Culinary Journey Within the Hotel’s Walls
The Londoner boasts a remarkable selection of dining and drinking venues, making it unnecessary to venture outside. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Whitcomb’s, a bi-level restaurant offering a lavish buffet spread. From fresh fruits and cereals to yogurts, juices, pastries, and a full hot selection, including an egg and omelette station, there’s something to please every palate. Teas and coffees are served to order, along with an extensive a la carte menu featuring hot and cold options.
The hotel’s grandeur means breakfast can get quite busy, but Whitcomb’s also serves lunch and dinner. This fine dining restaurant, with its French and Mediterranean influences, provides an exceptional culinary experience. As a hotel guest, you’re treated to a special aperitif, adding a touch of personalized service.
For a pre-dinner drink, head to Joshua’s Tavern, a charming traditional pub with an exceptional selection of gins and carefully crafted Gintonicas, sure to satisfy any gin enthusiast. After dinner, the concierge team can reserve a table for you at the Japanese-inspired izakaya lounge, 8 at The Londoner. This stylish venue offers breathtaking views of the London skyline from its glass wall and an enchanting outdoor Shima Garden, complete with a retractable roof, heaters for cooler nights, and a DJ to set the mood.
The guest-only Residence, accessed via an impressive curved staircase above The Stage, provides a more secluded retreat. This exclusive space features three distinct bar areas and a restaurant with a limited casual menu. Enjoy complimentary teas, coffees, and soft drinks throughout the day, alongside a selection of Italian antipasti. There’s also a dedicated space for relaxation, equipped with board games, an iMac, and newspapers and magazines to keep you entertained. A hidden gem awaits at the back – a cozy whisky bar.
Champagne breakfasts and afternoon teas are served in The Stage area, just off the main reception, while The Retreat spa offers Refuel, a delightful spot for drinks and healthy food, which can also be enjoyed poolside.
A Retreat for the Senses: The Londoner Spa
Level -4 houses The Retreat, a sanctuary of wellness that truly captured my heart. This spa enthusiast’s dream features a spacious gym, fully equipped for a comprehensive fitness experience. The spa itself boasts treatment rooms where I indulged in an incredible 90-minute Opium deep-tissue massage. The changing facilities, as with everything in this hotel, are impeccably designed, offering a tranquil environment to prepare for your treatments.
The Retreat also features Refuel, a superfood and drinks clinic, and a “style and beauty street” with men’s grooming by Joe Vipond, hair and beauty by Hiro Miyoshi, and nails by AMA. The spa area is home to a sizeable swimming pool and hydropool, surrounded by private cabanas. The spa’s manager, Stefani, was incredibly welcoming and attentive, providing a personal introduction during my first visit. I’m planning to write a more detailed review of The Retreat on my blog, This Man’s Journal.
Exceptional Service and Unforgettable Moments
The service throughout The Londoner is nothing short of phenomenal. From the warm welcome upon arrival and the guided tour of the hotel to the friendly staff in the bars, restaurants, and spa, every interaction was a testament to the hotel’s commitment to exceptional guest service.
While there were a couple of minor hiccups, like the initial room allocation and a housekeeping issue, these were quickly resolved, and they didn’t detract from the overall experience. The only other minor blip was the slow service at The Stage during our afternoon tea. While I’m confident this was an isolated incident, perhaps due to us being the last serving of the day, it did impact our expectations.
The Londoner is a unique and unforgettable experience. From its prime location and luxurious accommodations to its exceptional dining and spa facilities, this hotel truly offers a world-class retreat in the heart of London. The attention to detail, the commitment to service, and the overall ambiance create an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.
I highly recommend The Londoner to anyone seeking a luxurious escape in the heart of London.
