Imagine: you’re a trainspotter, but not your typical anorak-clad, flask-wielding enthusiast. You’re part of a new wave, fueled by the viral trainspotting adventures of TikTok influencers like Francois Bourgeois, real name Luke Nicholson. This new breed of trainspotter seeks out the most glamorous, unexpected spots to indulge in their passion. And there’s no better place to do that than the Marriott St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London.
A Grand Entrance to the World of Trains
This five-star hotel, a haven for celebrities, politicians, and business moguls, holds a special place in the hearts of trainspotters. Why? It boasts a unique selling point: rooms overlooking the Eurostar platforms. Imagine waking up to the symphony of six colossal Alstom TGV trains roaring into action, a far cry from the usual cacophony of city life.
As I stepped into the hotel, I was greeted by friendly staff who seemed almost too polite for the grandeur surrounding them. The Marriott St. Pancras, built in 1873, stands as a testament to a bygone era, with its sprawling gothic facade and imposing atmosphere. The high ceilings, grand chambers, and sweeping staircases transport you back to the 1930s, a time of timeless elegance and pre-digital charm.
A Trainspotter’s Paradise
For a trainspotter, this hotel is a dream come true. The sheer extravagance momentarily overwhelmed me, but I quickly regained my composure. After all, I had a mission: to witness the arrival of the 17:35 service from Paris Gare du Nord.
My suite, with its luxurious amenities – a king-size bed, a spacious bathroom, and tempting treats – was a far cry from the typical trainspotting haven. However, my eyes were drawn to the two expansive windows overlooking the Eurostar platform, a prime spot to indulge in my passion.
It was like having a private box at the greatest show on Earth. Hours flew by as I waved to passengers, gestured to baggage handlers and train staff, and desperately begged for a train horn honk. I marveled at Class 374s gracefully sliding into their berths next to Class 373s, and relished the distant roar of a Class 313. It was a magical moment, a symphony of sights and sounds, a testament to the beauty of trains.
Sharing the Passion
The only thing missing from this solitary joy was someone to share it with. After a lull in the services, I ventured out to explore the rest of the hotel. I settled into the swanky Chambers Club, indulging in complimentary food and drinks. A chance encounter with some American tourists quickly turned into an unexpected conversation about trainspotting.
“Are you also visiting London?” they asked. “We love it here. This hotel is so quaint and British!”
“No, I’m not visiting. I live in London. I’m just staying at the hotel,” I replied.
Their faces crinkled with confusion. “That’s odd. Why would you stay in a hotel if you lived in London?”
They were baffled. To them, my explanation of my trainspotting hobby seemed as bizarre as confessing to a morbid interest in roadkill.
“You mean you watch trains?” they asked.
“Sort of,” I explained. “I’m a trainspotter. Most people assume all trains look the same, but they’re not. There are subtle differences. For instance, a Class 24 and a Class 25 look similar, but the 25 is more streamlined, and the underside of its carriage mechanism is different.”
“Right, but why here? Why are you spotting here? Why not on a bridge or at a station?” they questioned.
“Because they have big windows here,” I said with a smile.
A Final Farewell
Our conversation ended soon after. They headed to the theatre, and I eagerly awaited the 22:35 arrival from Gare du Nord, the last train of the day. It’s a solemn moment for every trainspotter, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life.
As I watched the train snake its way into the terminal, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. In a world obsessed with technology, there are still pockets of old-world charm, like the Marriott St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London, where passion and beauty can be found.
Retiring to bed, I drifted off to sleep with the rhythmic rumble of locomotives echoing through my dreams. For £675 a night, it was the ultimate trainspotting experience, a luxurious indulgence for a passion that never fades.
