2020 has been the year for staycations and road trips since moving up north to the countryside due to the lockdown, so it always feels like a mini holiday going back down to London for a few days. We had a lovely stay at 100 Queen’s Gate, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.
The Hotel
100 Queen’s Gate was the former home of William Alexander, a well-travelled aristocrat in the 1870’s. Set amongst rows of white Victorian townhouses, it’s an easy five-minute walk from South Kensington tube station.
Even with 228 rooms, the hotel feels cosy and more like a good friend’s home. Perhaps it’s the friendly service that makes you feel so welcome here. The lobby is filled with trinkets William Alexander collected throughout the years, from keys, stamps to porcelain amongst plush armchairs and trunks as coffee tables. You’ll find two restaurants on-site, a speakeasy-style bar, ESQ and a 24-hour fitness centre.
The King Duplex Suite
The Lord Baden-Powell Suite sits on the 6th floor of the hotel. The spacious lounge area is furnished like a mini library filled with books and a fireplace under the TV. Decorated in hues of burnt orange, blue and gold, the style of the room is Victorian classic with modern design features.
A staircase leads up to the bedroom where you’ll find a very comfortable king-size bed, TV, bathroom with a tub and a dressing room. A Marshall speaker, complimentary tea and a Nespresso coffee machine can be found in the room along with Floris London toiletries.
Botanica Afternoon Tea
Botanica has to be my favourite part of the hotel, where they serve a floral-inspired afternoon tea. Partnering with perfumery, Floris London, ‘Scentsation’ celebrates both taste and scent. Whittard tea pairs perfectly with warm scones and a selection of pastries and sandwiches, which you can replenish as many times as you’d like. We spent the afternoon sipping tea, chatting away and enjoying the gorgeous light-filled room and intimate setting.
The Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the hotel’s restaurant, W/A, an all-day brasserie serving British-French cuisine. It should be noted, the breakfast buffet is currently unavailable. You now have a choice of five menu items from a Full English, Eggs Royale to poached eggs on toast. The natural light from the large windows on the booth seating makes a nice start to your morning.
Exploring the neighbourhood
Just a short walk from 100 Queen’s Gate is the Natural History, Science and Victoria and Albert Museums. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to satisfy your hunger after a stroll around the museums.
Daphne’s beautiful interiors and delicious Italian fare is a great spot for lunch.
Claude Bosi and Petals at Bibendum sit inside the historic art deco building, Michelin House which was the Michelin headquarters in 1911.
If you’re a matcha lover like me, stop by Tombo for an oat matcha latte.
100 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5AG
