Nestled in the bustling heart of London, the Bloomsbury Hotel is a true sanctuary, a world away from the city’s frenetic pace. This elegant, red brick building, a masterpiece by the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, dates back to 1928 and offers a serene escape, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant Tottenham Court Road and the soon-to-open Crossrail. Its central location, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, places you within easy reach of the British Museum, Covent Garden’s charming shops, Soho’s trendy bars and restaurants, and London’s world-famous theaters.
A Breathtaking Transformation
Part of The Doyle Collection, an Irish hotel group, the Bloomsbury Hotel was acquired in the late 1990s and has undergone a remarkable revival ever since. The most recent renovation, completed in late 2017, has transformed the hotel into a breathtaking haven of style and sophistication. Following a multi-million pound investment program led by Bernie Gallagher, Chairman of The Doyle Collection, in collaboration with the internationally acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the project encompassed a complete redesign of the hotel’s public spaces, including a new reception area, guest lounge, and the stunning Coral Room bar. The original entrance, located at the side of the hotel, has been restored and enhanced with a new glazed canopy, creating an inviting arrival experience. The adjacent sitting room, with its muted green and pink color palette, is a delightful mix of furnishings, artwork, and lighting. This room, with its heritage-inspired botanical wallpaper and Lutyens-designed fireplace, is a personal favorite. The inviting scalloped sofas beckon you to relax and soak up the ambiance.
A Coral Paradise
One of the most talked about changes within the hotel is the magnificent Coral Room. This double-height space, spanning 2,100 square feet, is located at the front of the hotel. The original paneled walls have been retained and given a high-gloss lacquer finish in a vibrant coral hue – a color that Lutyens himself admired. The Coral Room is a dazzling space, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to create a vibrant and unique atmosphere. From the five bespoke Murano glass chandeliers to the original artwork by British illustrator Luke Edward Hall, the room pulsates with personality. The bar, with its Calacatta marble top and high-gloss molded timber front, features antique mirror and brass detailing, reflecting the hotel’s rich heritage. Offering delicious food throughout the day, alongside a curated list of English sparkling wines and innovative cocktails, the Coral Room is a cool and inviting space from dawn till dusk.
A Touch of Old-World Charm
If decadent and daring design isn’t quite your style, the Bloomsbury Club Bar, tucked away in the basement, offers a more intimate and sophisticated ambiance. With its plush leather armchairs, atmospheric lighting, and rich mahogany paneling, this special space evokes the magic of bygone eras of glamour and has a distinct members’ club feel. Inspired by the famously hedonistic Bloomsbury Set, the bar also features an enchanting twinkling outdoor cavern, perfect for long summer evenings accompanied by a quirky cocktail.
A Quintessentially English Escape
Last but by no means least is the iconic Dalloway Terrace, an indoor/outdoor space that has become immensely popular for its delicious food and Instagram-worthy interiors. Named after the eponymous character created by Virginia Woolf, the terrace offers a quintessentially English escape with floral displays that change with the seasons. The menu showcases British dishes and produce, from acai bowls for breakfast to Dover Sole for dinner. The gluten-free carrot cake is a particular highlight, and I find myself returning again and again for a taste of its deliciousness.
A Haven of Luxury and Comfort
No visit to The Bloomsbury is complete without experiencing one of their stunning rooms or suites. With 153 rooms and 11 suites, expect a gorgeous blend of modern design with classic touches like oxblood leather headboards, plush velvet, mid-century or scallop-edged chairs, and fringed light fittings. The muted color palette allows the exquisite furniture and fixtures to take center stage, while the bathrooms offer a contrast in bright monochrome marble, complete with walk-in showers and stand-alone baths. My favorite room, the Studio Suite, is not only tech-savvy but also incredibly comfortable. This spacious corner chamber basks in natural light, featuring a huge king-sized bed as its centerpiece. The attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the Dyson hairdryer and scented bath oils to the Bloomsbury-branded candle and extensive mini-bar selection. The team has truly thought of everything to ensure a luxurious and unforgettable stay. If all this wasn’t enough, the hotel used to be the site of the Queen’s swimming lessons as a child (sadly, the pool is now covered, but rumors of its renovation are circulating).
The Bloomsbury Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary of style and comfort, a haven of luxury and history, a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered in the heart of London.
