With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, StyleNest took a romantic rendezvous to the Hilton’s latest launch, new-look Hilton London Bankside to see what all the fuss is about.
Located in the heart of Bankside, on the south side of the River Thames, the hotel is neighbour to an impressive number of London’s greatest attractions; including The Tate Modern, The Shard, Borough Market and the Tower of London but the location here is only a mere part of the hotel’s charm.
The Hilton London Bankside is the chain’s latest London launch – its first since 2006 – and the first of the hotels newest concept; contemporary design and high-end food and drink. So if you think you know what to expect of a Hilton hotel, think again.
What strikes you immediately is how different the Hilton Bankside looks to the chain’s signature look. Exposed brickwork and reclaimed tube station tiles sit as a backdrop against a moody colour scheme of mossy greens, mustards and browns. Furniture is finished in dark leather and wood and the result is seductive and mature.
The hotel showcases bespoke sculptures by British artist David Farrer, and throughout the hotel you will notice quirky design touches like the miniature fox sculptures dotted about, in honour of the omnivorous mammal that frequented the hotel site during construction. The intention was for the hotel to mirror the surrounding area and the result is striking. This hotel isn’t just an overnight stop; it’s a location.
I recommend starting out, as we did, with one of the many artisan gins on offer in the hotel’s bar The Distillery. Located on the site of an acclaimed perfume factory, The Distillery celebrates its past by offering an impressive selection of signature cocktails; each incorporating infusions, bitters and essences.
After soaking up the atmosphere and a couple of drinks, your next stop should be the hotel’s restaurant, OXBO. Hotel restaurants have been going from strength to strength in recent years and OXBO is no exception. Executive Chef Paul Bates, formerly of The Beaumont and Intercontinental Park Lane, heads up the culinary team, delivering the best of British, seasonal produce. The hotel’s opulent furnishings and laid back atmosphere instantly make you want to linger and the staff are just the right shade of attentive and discreet, making OXBO the perfect place for a romantic Valentine’s dinner.
We dined on apple cider marinated salmon and Cornish monkfish cheeks to start and sirloin of Gloucester beef for our main. The steak was without doubt one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten and I’ve eaten a fair few. Desert was raspberry crème brûlée and dark chocolate terrine. The food, is like the hotel; impressive, honest and beautifully executed.
Full and satisfied we headed upstairs to one of the hotels 292 guest rooms. Echoing the hotel’s signature style of comfort and luxury, our room was thoughtfully laid out; featuring bespoke furnishings, a custom styled rainforest shower, sleek floor to ceiling tiles and a very large, inviting bed.
Of course, come morning, you could wake up refreshed and enjoy the hotels beautiful subterranean pool or fitness centre. Or, you could order room service and enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a few extra minutes in that comfy bed. This, of course is exactly what we did.
2-8 Great Suffolk St, London SE1 0UG, 020 3667 5600
www3.hilton.com or [email protected]