The Londoner, a self-proclaimed “super boutique” hotel, opened its doors in September 2021, slightly behind schedule due to the global pandemic. Having heard whispers of its grandeur for months, I couldn’t wait to experience it myself. My anticipation was rewarded with a delightful weekend stay in March 2022.
While a couple of minor setbacks (an initial room issue and a less-than-perfect afternoon tea experience) occurred, they didn’t detract from the overall exceptional experience. The Londoner truly feels like an escape from the bustling city, even though it’s located right in the heart of London’s theatre district. Exceptional design, outstanding service, top-notch facilities, and a unique ambiance make this large hotel a haven of sophistication.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! The Londoner is a new favourite of mine, and I wouldn’t hesitate to return. It offers a diverse range of unique venues for dining, drinking, and relaxing, making it a one-stop shop for any London adventure.
Prime Location: A Central Oasis
Nestled on the southwest corner of Leicester Square, The Londoner is just a short walk from the Piccadilly and Leicester Square Underground stations. Chinatown, Soho, and Covent Garden are all within easy reach, and Regent Street’s high-end shops are just a stone’s throw away. Theaters, cinemas, and vibrant nightlife are at your doorstep, including an Odeon cinema located within the hotel itself.
You won’t have to venture far for entertainment, with countless bars, restaurants, and popular attractions like the Lego store and M&M’s World within walking distance. This central location offers a unique blend of convenience and tranquility, providing a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Luxurious Accommodation: Rooms for Every Taste
The Londoner offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need. From King, Deluxe King, and Deluxe King City View rooms to Junior and Corner Suites, there’s a perfect option for every traveler. If you seek something truly special, the hotel boasts a Capital, Signature, and Tower Penthouse Suite – a two-story haven with incredible London views.
My stay began in a Deluxe King room, a beautifully designed space with breathtaking views and a harmonious blend of neutral colors, luxurious materials, and subtle wood paneling. The open-plan bathroom features bold tiling, a vibrant sink, a separate walk-in shower, and a state-of-the-art Japanese electronic toilet. Every detail is impeccably clean and meticulously appointed with amenities like a mini-bar, a large LCD TV, a traditional Roberts radio with Bluetooth and digital capabilities, complimentary mineral water, a hairdryer, an electric steamer, robes, slippers, and binoculars.
The luxurious touches continue with Miller Harris toiletries, providing shampoo, shower gel, conditioner, and body lotion. Following a slight housekeeping issue, I was upgraded to a Junior Suite, which was equally impressive. The Suite offered more space with additional windows for a panoramic view, a more enclosed bathroom with a spacious shower and bath area, and a comfortable reclining sofa, a small dining table, two chairs, a writing desk, and a chair.
Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey
The Londoner offers a plethora of dining options, eliminating the need to leave the hotel. Whitcomb’s, the hotel’s French/Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, serves a lavish breakfast buffet featuring fresh fruits, cereals, yogurt, juices, pastries, and a full hot selection with an egg/omelette station. You can also indulge in a full a la carte menu with hot and cold options.
Dinner at Whitcomb’s is an equally satisfying experience, with exceptional food and service. The hotel’s commitment to its guests is evident in the special aperitif offered to hotel guests.
For pre-dinner drinks, Joshua’s Tavern offers a fantastic selection of gins and Gintonicas, expertly crafted to delight the palate. After dinner, the concierge team can arrange a table at 8 at The Londoner, the hotel’s Japanese-inspired izakaya lounge. This sophisticated venue boasts panoramic city views and a covered outdoor garden with a retractable roof, perfect for warm evenings with a DJ and heaters for cooler nights.
The Residence, a guest-only space accessible via a curved staircase above The Stage, offers a secluded and intimate atmosphere with three different bar areas, a restaurant with a casual menu, and complimentary teas, coffees, and soft drinks. This private haven also features board games, an iMac, and a selection of newspapers and magazines. A hidden whisky bar tucked away towards the back adds an extra layer of exclusivity.
Champagne breakfasts, afternoon teas, and delicious snacks are served in The Stage area, while Refuel at The Retreat offers healthy food and drinks that can be enjoyed by the pool.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: The Retreat Spa
The Londoner’s award-winning Retreat Spa is a haven of tranquility, offering a comprehensive range of wellness facilities. A large gym and fitness room, complete with state-of-the-art equipment, is perfect for those seeking to maintain their fitness routine.
The spa itself features treatment rooms where you can enjoy treatments like the Opium deep-tissue massage I indulged in. Beautifully designed changing facilities, a Refuel clinic offering superfoods and drinks, and a style and beauty “street” with men’s grooming by Joe Vipond, hair & beauty by Hiro Miyoshi, and nails by AMA complete the spa experience.
The spa area boasts a generous-sized swimming pool and hydropool, surrounded by private cabanas. I was particularly impressed with Stefani, the Spa and Wellness Manager, who personally introduced me to the Retreat.
The Londoner is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience, a sanctuary in the heart of London.
