Background
The hotel previously operated under the Doubletree by Hilton brand, but underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment and reopened as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection in 2021. This is an upscale brand within the Hilton portfolio, but with each property retaining an independent “boutique” style.
Where is it?
Right in the heart of the action. Iconic London landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Tate Britain and Westminster Abbey are all within walking distance, while MI5 is directly in front, and the MI6 headquarters lies just across the River Thames. The closest underground station is Pimlico on the Victoria Line, an eight-minute walk away.
What's it like?
Rows of bowler hats in the entrance window nod to a spy theme from the offset. The spacious lobby is served by three check-in desks, which were all in use during my mid-afternoon arrival (check-in starts at 3pm), but I didn’t have to wait long and was offered some water while I was processed.
There is a seating area and a workspace in the lobby, with computer, phone and printer facilities. Upbeat music was playing and there were funky artworks and a selection of magazines to browse.
There didn’t seem to be any security function on the lift – all floors can be accessed without tapping your room keycard. I made my way to room 544 on the fifth floor down dark corridors that are peppered with spy-inspired art works, which all adds to theme of intrigue.
Rooms
The hotel features 464 rooms and suites. I stayed in a Queen Premium Corner Room, which offers slightly more space at 23 sqm. A plate of sugar-dusted strawberries and macarons were waiting for me on arrival, which was a nice touch.
Space is maximised with an unusual layout. Curved walls divide the room into a rough ’S’ shape, creating two separate areas for sleeping/living and washing/dressing, although it does mean the first thing you see when you walk in is the bathroom sink. Light wood panelling on the walls and floors creates a warm and relaxing space, with rich jewel-toned furnishings to add personality.
Cut into the walls are little alcoves, one which served as a desk space and one for the coffee station. The work station was very comfortable and cosy, with a half-moon desk that had ample space and plenty of sockets and a USB port. There was also a desk lamp and a mirror so this could double up as a dressing table. The complimentary wifi was fast and easy to use.
Large windows line the far end of the room, which allows for plenty of light – though, despite the great location, my view overlooking a car park was not particularly inspiring. Blackout curtains are automated and created a good sleeping environment.
Amenities include a bottle of still and sparkling water, plus a Nespresso machine (not available in Standard rooms) with a selection of capsules, plus a kettle with regular tea and instant coffee.
The bed was comfortable, with a selection of reading lamps on either side, plug sockets and USBs to charge personal devices on bedside table stands. A large TV was opposite the bed, with a selection of channels.
The bathroom area featured a separate toilet and shower cubicle, dressed in black marble-look walls. Large TW shampoo/conditioner and body wash was provided in the shower, with body lotion and soap by the sink.
The wardrobe area came with iron, dressing gowns and safe. I appreciated the full length mirror by the door.
Food and drink
The hotel has two restaurants: STK and Bao Yum, the latter serving breakfast lunch and dinner with a twist on classic bao. Our dinner at STK was fabulous. The restaurant was stunning, with dim lighting in the evening, lots of seating options, and charming cherry blossom imitations.
Our cushioned booth offered plenty of space and privacy, even though the restaurant was quite busy with a glamorous crowd. The menu featured a range of classic starters – we tried the crispy calamari (£21), which was far too much for one person, and the yellowfin tuna tartare (£22). For mains, we chose the flat iron steak (£40) with a side of potato gratin and the ancho chilli rubbed striploin steak (£36) served with crispy baby potatoes and smoked herb butter. The wine list was also impressive, though on the more expensive side.
As the evening wore on, the music got a little louder and more upbeat as the in-house DJ directed the overall ambience.
Breakfast was also hosted here, though in the far side of the restaurant that had a more casual feel. It offered a decent buffet, with everything from fresh fruits to an egg-making station. It wasn’t quite as slick an affair as dinner – the service was very busy and the coffee cups ran out at one point.
Meetings
The hotel offers three meeting rooms with built-in video conferencing facilities and 4K cameras. The largest is capable of hosting up to 100 in banquet style.
The hotel also has its own bowling lane with a private bar, though this is listed under the events spaces and designated for private events rather than casual guest access.
Leisure
There is a lovely gym on the 13th floor, which is accessed via a winding steel staircase and split across two levels. There is a good selection of equipment, including Peloton bikes, and great views across the city.
Verdict
This is a great offering in the heart of London, with solid facilities for a business traveller and plenty of character.
FACT BOX
- Best for An upmarket stay in a central London location
- Don’t miss Influencer-spotting over dinner at STK
- Price Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in April start from £419 for a Queen Premium Corner Room
- Contact 30 John Islip St, London SW1P 4DD; +44 (0) 20 7630 1000; hotelwestminster.co.uk
