Background
The Kingsbury is one of Colombo’s most iconic hotels and is currently owned by Sri Lanka’s leading conglomerate Hayley’s PLC. Launched in 2012, it was the first hotel in Colombo to be reinstated as a five-star hotel in 2017.
What’s It Like
While the facade and building are undoubtedly imposing, there is understated elegance and warmth as soon as you enter. Given its proximity to the business district, and its capacity to host weddings and events, the lobby is always buzzing with energy at any time of the day or night, with local corporates, tourists, wedding guests and locals walking in for a drink or meal.
Where Is It
The Kingsbury enjoys the most prestigious address in Colombo, at the far end of the picturesque Galle Face Green stretch, overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is also across the street from the World Trade Centre and other commercial buildings and within walking distance from the Dutch Hospital district and the Fort heritage district.
Rooms
I stayed in a suite, at the corner of the building. The suite offers an almost all-round view of the ocean and Galle Face Green, from sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows. A large living room with a couch, armchair and large work desk give way to the bedroom area, where a large bed — with Frette linen — offers breathtaking views of the sea as you lie down. The massive marble bathroom, stocked with Bulgari amenities, overlooks the nearby upcoming Colombo Port City. The decor of the room is elegant and sophisticated, with beautiful pastel tones.
Food & Drink
The Kingsbury has an impressive eight F&B outlets ranging from the Chinese restaurant Yue Chuan to the Ocean Seafood Restaurant and The Grill. Breakfast is best enjoyed at The Harbour Court, overlooking the swimming pool and the trendy Honey Beach Club. (Note: try the string hoppers and local curries at the breakfast buffet). My favourite part of the hotel, though, is the fabulous Cé La Vie Lounge on the rooftop, said to be the best rooftop bar in Colombo (with an adjoining restaurant). This place is extremely popular with locals and tourists who come here for cocktails and great sunset views.
Meetings
MICE is an important focus at The Kingsbury, which regularly hosts weddings, conferences, and events at its many MICE spaces, which can be configured to client’s specifications.
Leisure
Spend endless hours at the hotel’s gorgeous swimming pool and Honey Beach Club, where cocktails are served. This makes for some great photo ops. Alternatively, you can unwind at the spa or on the rooftop or in the Executive Lounge on the 9th floor.
Verdict The best-situated hotel in downtown Colombo, perfect for a work trip to the Sri Lankan capital. Excellent rooms, a fabulous rooftop bar, and great service.
Price: Upwards of INR 9,700
Contact: The Kingsbury, 48 Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo.
