(This section introduces the Treehouse Hotel and the author’s excitement for staying there with her dog, Bonnie)
I’ve been obsessed with taking my Cocker Spaniel Bonnie on adventures since 2020. We’ve explored dog-friendly spots all over the UK, but a trip to London was always on my list. When I stumbled upon the Treehouse Hotel on Instagram, I was immediately smitten with its unique charm and whimsical design. The cherry on top? It’s dog-friendly! I couldn’t wait to share this unique experience with my mum and booked a girls’ getaway in January 2022.
A Treehouse-Inspired Stay: Unique Concepts and Sustainable Efforts
(This section explains the hotel’s concept and sustainable practices, prompting readers to question its value for the price)
The concept behind the Treehouse Hotel is truly charming – imagine climbing into a treehouse filled with childhood treasures! This whimsical aesthetic is enhanced by their commitment to sustainability, with a focus on sourcing local produce, reducing single-use plastic, and implementing composting and recycling programs. But, with a hefty price tag of over £250 per night, does this quirky experience truly live up to the hype?
A Central London Location with a Unique Check-in
(This section introduces the hotel’s location and unique check-in experience, offering a glimpse into the hotel’s character.)
Nestled next to the BBC building in Marylebone, the Treehouse Hotel offers a prime location for exploring central London. You’re just a short walk from Oxford Circus tube station and within easy reach of Oxford Street’s bustling shops and eateries. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff, but be prepared for a unique check-in experience. Instead of a traditional reception, you’ll be directed to a small coffee shop counter called Backyard Café and Wine Bar, which doubles as a quirky check-in area.
Navigating the Quirks: Confusing Lifts and a Mystery Charge
(This section highlights the challenges encountered with the hotel’s lifts and a mysterious charge added to the author’s card, leaving readers curious to learn more.)
The hotel boasts 95 rooms spread across floors 9 to 16, but getting around can be a bit of a maze. The three lifts are beautifully designed, but their layout proved frustrating. One lift doesn’t go to all floors, and with Bonnie in tow, we found ourselves navigating between the ground floor, the 15th-floor reception, and our room on the 9th floor, using different lifts for each journey. The lift buttons were also confusing, leading to a few frustrating moments as we tried to figure out which one to use.
Adding to the frustration, my card was charged an extra £120 on top of the room rate. While I understand pre-authorisation and holding fees, this amount was deducted from my account, only to be refunded at checkout. This lack of clarity during booking was concerning.
A Cluttered Paradise: Quirky Decor and Noise Concerns
(This section describes the rooms’ decor and the noise issues, offering a contrasting experience for readers to consider)
The rooms themselves feature a unique blend of vintage furniture and childhood memorabilia, which adds to the hotel’s quirky charm. However, while the decor is charming, it can also feel like clutter. A large globe, vintage books, and various trinkets take up valuable space. While the beds are comfortable, and the bathrooms are beautifully designed, the overall noise levels can be a concern for light sleepers. The glass sliding doors separating the rooms can bang against the wall, and the noise from the floors above and the surrounding city can be disruptive.
A Missed Opportunity: Restaurants and the Rooftop Bar
(This section examines the hotel’s dining options, emphasizing the missed opportunity due to renovations and the lack of appeal on the menu)
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including the Mexican restaurant Madera, Pizzeria Mozza, and the rooftop bar, The Nest. Unfortunately, Pizzeria Mozza was under renovation during our stay, and Madera doesn’t allow dogs. While The Nest is dog-friendly until 6 pm, the patio renovations prevented us from enjoying the stunning 360-degree skyline views. The menu also lacked appeal, with underwhelming cocktails and uninspired light bites.
A Dog-Friendly Stay with a Few Drawbacks
(This section summarizes the positive and negative aspects of the hotel, inviting readers to ponder if it meets their needs.)
While the Treehouse Hotel offers a unique and dog-friendly experience, it’s not without its drawbacks. The staff are friendly, the bed is comfortable, and the location is unbeatable. However, the frustrating lifts, noisy environment, and unappealing dining options leave much to be desired.
A Search for the Perfect Dog-Friendly Hotel Continues
(This section concludes the review, encouraging readers to share their thoughts and explore alternative dog-friendly hotels in London.)
Ultimately, the Treehouse Hotel is a fun and quirky experience, but it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. For those seeking a truly unique and whimsical stay, it’s worth considering. But, for those looking for a quiet retreat with impeccable service and gourmet dining, there are likely better options out there. What are your thoughts? Have you ever stayed at a dog-friendly hotel in London? Let me know in the comments below!
