With all eyes on London now is a good time to plan a weekend or short break to the capital city. There’s so much to see and do in London and a short break can be perfect for all sorts of reasons .. sightseeing, shopping, visiting the museums, perhaps a West End show, celebrating a special occasion or simply a chance to get away and relax. For whatever reason you choose, your accommodation needs to be spot on and well situated. I stayed at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt, an excellent choice!
INTRODUCTION
This 4 star hotel, an imposing Georgian mansion in fashionable South Kensington, has the charm of its rich history and the attraction of modern comfort. From the moment I stepped into the frescoed lobby I was impressed with the hotels characterful ambience of open fireplaces, deep sofas for great laid-back lounging and the smart helpful service of the reception staff.
ON THE DOORSTEP
South Kensington is only a short bus, tube or taxi ride into London’s West End, however there’s lots to see and do close to the hotel. Knightsbridge and Harrods are within walking distance and close by are other famous attractions – the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park, Kensington Palace and gardens and the Earls Court and Olympia exhibition centres. I spent several hours exploring Kensington and Hyde Park along with a spot of shopping in the High Street, however by the time I got to Harrods it was early afternoon and extremely busy with shoppers and tourists.
THE HOTEL FACILITIES
Travelling to and from the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt is so convenient, Gloucester Road tube station is literally just around the corner, so leave the car at home! The 215 rooms have a warm classic English feel to them and feature rich décor with opulent fabrics. All rooms feature sleek flat screen TV’s and complimentary Wifi comes as standard. I stayed in one of the deluxe rooms which I can highly recommend. The air-conditioned room was generously spacious and great to chill-out away from the hustle and bustle of London life. Bedroom
All the regular services are available at the hotel, including a gym, and if you have to keep in touch work wise there’s a business centre available with internet, and photocopying facilities, etc.
68-86 BAR & RESTAURANT
After a pre-dinner drink in the contemporary bar area I was looking forward to my dinner reservation in the stunning 68-86 restaurant. This restaurant is light and airy with wooden floors and unusual objects d’art. The food and wine was of a high standard; modern British food, impeccably served by the attentive restaurant staff. Starter dishes of seared scallops and pancetta, with leek purée and herb oil are served. Main courses include slow braised shin of beef, mashed potatoes, caramelised button onions and carrots. Whilst delectable deserts include a ginger cheesecake with cranberry compote. 68-86 is also great for afternoon tea and breakfast of course. The menu can be viewed on the hotel website.
CONCLUSION
This is a luxury 4 star hotel in South Kensington and all the staff I came across was polite, friendly and professional. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a pleasure to stay here. It’s in a great location for a short break to London and this excellent, well managed hotel sets a high standard.
For more information and to check out the latest hotel deals have a look at their website. Full details are below.
For more information, visit www.radissonblu-edwardian.com/vanderbilt