Welcome to The Berners Edition hotel, a vibrant London landmark with an air of sophisticated charm that’s as captivating as its prime location. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a world of refined elegance and bustling energy.
A Fusion of Past and Present
Imagine stepping into a grand Edwardian townhouse, its intricate plasterwork whispering tales of a bygone era. The Berners Edition’s lobby is a mesmerizing blend of historical grandeur and modern design. A gleaming silver sphere light, like a futuristic spaceship, illuminates the scene, while the rhythmic clatter of a lively pool game echoes through the space, creating a symphony of modern energy. This is no ordinary hotel lobby; it’s a dynamic stage where social interactions are as lively as the art installations.
To the right, Berners Tavern beckons with its grand dining room, adorned with majestic globe-like chandeliers that cast a warm glow on the opulent stucco ceiling. The walls are a tapestry of gilt-framed neoclassical ephemera, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. It’s a space that would surely earn the approval of Ian Schrager, the visionary behind Edition hotels, who pioneered the concept of the hotel as a vibrant social hub.
A Legacy of Style and Comfort
This majestic structure was once five charming townhouses built in 1835, later combined in 1910 to form the Berners Hotel. When it faced closure in 1972, the poet John Betjeman, renowned for his love of architecture, championed its preservation. The hotel’s transformation into The Berners Edition in 2013 breathed new life into this historic gem. Renowned design firm Yabu Pushelberg, known for their meticulous attention to detail, skillfully combined the building’s Edwardian grandeur with sleek contemporary furnishings, creating a truly unique ambiance.
Rooms Like Yachts
Imagine a cabin on a luxurious yacht, with sleek wood panels and a hint of midcentury design. The hotel’s 173 rooms embody this refined aesthetic, with a touch of playful whimsy added by the inclusion of gilt-framed portraits by Dutch photographer Henriks Kerstens, reminiscent of a modern-day reimagining of the iconic “Girl With a Pearl Earring.” The sharp white bathrooms are adorned with Le Labo toiletries, and the well-stocked mini-bar offers a tempting selection of 15-year Dalwhinnie single malts, Edition house lagers, and Fairfield Farm crisps. Each room is a testament to the Edition brand’s dedication to providing a consistently refined and memorable experience.
Culinary Delights
The Berners Edition isn’t just about sleek interiors; it’s also a haven for culinary delights. The Lobby Bar and Punch Room, with its warm oak paneling, offers an enticing array of cocktails that are as exquisite as the menu is enigmatic. Themed around light, the menu is a playful invitation to indulge in exceptional libations like the Golden Hour Punch, without worrying about deciphering esoteric ingredients.
Adjacent to the lobby is Jason Atherton’s Berners Tavern, a vibrant space that radiates a distinct New York energy. The menu features no-nonsense British comfort fare with a playful twist, offering dishes like a decadent braised beef pie or a mouthwatering grass-fed cote de boeuf. But it’s the legendary mac and cheese with tender beef blade that truly steals the show. Don’t miss the exquisite pork and pistachio pie, carved tableside, or the elevated prawn cocktail with lobster jelly. Atherton’s culinary prowess shines in every dish, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
A Chic and Convenient Location
The Berners Edition is perfectly situated, offering a tranquil escape just a stone’s throw from the vibrant energy of Oxford Street. Explore the charming streets of Fitzrovia and Bloomsbury, or delve into the heart of Soho, all within easy reach. This hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the best that London has to offer.
A Touch of Sustainability
The Berners Edition is committed to sustainability, boasting a Green Key accreditation and actively pursuing accreditation by The Pledge on Food Waste. The hotel strives to minimize its environmental impact, ensuring a future where responsible practices are as integral to its identity as its elegant design.
A Haven for All
The Berners Edition is a welcoming space for all, with nine accessible bedrooms and fully accessible public spaces on the ground floor. The hotel caters to families, with connecting rooms and an Early Berners kids menu, making it a delightful choice for families with children.
A Hub for Culture and Events
Beyond its exceptional accommodations and dining experiences, the Berners Edition is a magnet for cultural happenings. The hotel hosts engaging events that cater to a diverse audience, including:
- Film talks with Sofia Coppola
- Discussions on sex taboos with writer-broadcaster Emma-Louise Boynton
- Private after-hours gallery tours with cultural writer and guide Ashleigh Kane
- Current affairs and pop culture panels hosted by presenter/filmmaker Sydney Lima
These events provide a unique opportunity to engage with thought-provoking themes and influential figures, further solidifying the Berners Edition’s reputation as a cultural hub.
A Destination Worth Visiting
While other hotels might be buzzing with hype, the Berners Edition delivers on its promise, offering a refined and memorable experience that’s both sophisticated and effortlessly cool. It’s a testament to the power of enduring design and the allure of a location that embodies the spirit of London. The Berners Edition is a true London gem, offering a captivating blend of history, luxury, and cultural vibrancy.
