Not being one to demand luxury as it’s fair to say I fit easily in wherever I stay but when the opportunity presents itself and I find myself in luxurious surroundings it’s fair to say I like to lose myself in my luxurious surroundings.
Londons Strand Palace
I will pamper, dress up, enjoy the good food and drink, and generally enjoy the experience.
So, no surprise to say that when the opportunity arose to check out London’s Strand Palace Hotel, a mixture of classic elegance married perfectly with the modern situated on ‘The Strand’ minutes from the West End, Oxford Street, Knightsbridge, and Covent Garden I leapt at the chance.
The recently refurbished Strand Palace offers luxury accommodation that includes, Deluxe studio double, Deluxe Studio King and Superior double, single, and cosy rooms, so would I miss the chance – I don’t think so!
We arrived in London early Saturday morning with the intention to take in London’s shops and then to have a relaxing evening and unwind from the stresses of London and all its hectic shops.
We had been recommended to dine in Haxells restaurant, and we intended to finish off the evening in their new cocktail bar. So, strait off the train we headed get to checked-in before hitting the shops.
Staff at check-in were incredibly helpful, friendly and hospitable, while the concierge sorted our luggage out. They got us from reception up to our room in a remarkably short time, this was no easy feat as it appeared every guest had all appeared at the same time but they dealt with it superbly.
I wasn’t entirely sure just what I expected when I walked into the room, but I had the feeling it would be a pretty glamorous of place, walking in, it certainly didn't disappoint.
The large room decorated with a table and couch, a sofa sits in front of a television, perfect as you take some time out from the rush of the city.
A king-size bed sits in the middle of the room, with huge wardrobes for those who were having a long stay and wanted to keep their smart clothes creaseless. The bed itself was incredibly comfortable, and perfect to sink into after a long day of trekking around London.
The bathroom is beautifully decorated, a gigantic mirror runs on the wall behind the wash basin and toilet, sitting opposite a large window and bath for those who enjoy a soak.
The incredible shower which blasts your body whilst you wash, with a soaker above you. This means that at any one time, you can have powerful jets washing the dirt, grime, and your troubles away.
The hotel provides everything you'll need during your stay, presenting a selection of spa items within the bathroom.
So, after a quick shower and change we set off into the West End to take advantage of London’s shops.
When we returned early evening fully laden, we nipped into Haxells, an art deco – inspired restaurant for coffee and cakes - very nice indeed, then up to our room to get ready for the evening.
As I said we were booked in at the Strand Hotels Haxell Restaurant and Bar for the evening, this restaurant serves modern British cuisine, with a menu that includes British classics as well as a wide choice of world flavours.
We started with Butternut squash & carrot soup with coconut cream, served with sourdough for mains my partner had the steak while I couldn’t resist the classic battered cod served with mashed peas, thick cut chips & tartare sauce all prepared by top chefs.
Not enough good can be said about the impeccable flavour in every bite, whether from the the starters, through to the main courses, and being a ‘sweet person’, I must add their desserts where delicious.
After-dinner we retired to the sleek modern Gin Palace to sample a number of Haxells Gin cocktails, you should try a Spicy Vanilla Sidecar, (my favourite), or a Black Forest Mojito and a tantalising Goose Gimlet, or a glass of champagne, a Two Tribes craft beer.
As an overall experience, The Strand Hotel sits as one of the best hotels I have stayed in, from the wonderful staff, to the beautiful Studio rooms, the gorgeous food in the Haxells Restaurant.
After this wonderful experience – a classic gem that I hope to return to at some point in the future!
Find out more about The Strand Hotel and book your own stay Here
The Strand Palace Hotel
372 Strand, London WC2R 0JJ
Phone 020 7379 4737
Tagged in Travel hotel review