London Hotels: For The Style Seeker

In one of the most expensive cities in the world, the IMAGE team seeks out some of the chicest London hotel stays that offer real value for money.

THE DESTINATION

The Marylebone, 47 Welbeck Street, London.

THE BRIEF

To find a stylish base for London Fashion Week.

I FELL IN LOVE WITH

The hotel’s attention to detail. From the Guinness soda bread served in 108 Brasserie, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, and Butlers Chocolates left nightly on your pillow to the familiar accents among many of the staff, the small Irish touches throughout offer subtle comfort to weary travellers. Located in one of London’s most appealing areas, this Irish-owned property combines style and modernity with a traditional warm welcome we’ve come to expect from The Doyle Collection. The hotel makes use of local designers for the furnishings, with muted de?cor offset by occasional bold accents, while the lobby and restaurant areas display modern artworks from the Rebecca Hossack Gallery. Marylebone ?village? itself is one of London’s most interesting areas, fashionable yet unpretentious, with wonderful shops such as VV Rouleaux (the most decadent ribbon shop) and smart designer boutiques, the nearby Wallace Collection (in Manchester Square), and a farmers? market on Sundays. Guests have complimentary access to the onsite Third Space health club, which has one of the most impressive gyms I’ve ever seen attached to a hotel, an 18-metre swimming pool, and health and beauty treatments – perfect for those who want to maintain their fitness while travelling (or work off a couple of portions of that Guinness loaf).

LITTLE EXTRAS

Three suites have balconies; I stayed in the impressive Harley Suite with its huge cedar-clad terrace with retractable roof offering views of Mary Poppins? London, not to mention special outdoor television and fireplace.

THE DETAILS

While the Harley Suite will set you back a generous €2,000 (around €2,342) a night, the starting price for basic rooms is €246 (around €288).

This article originally appeared in the May issue of IMAGE magazine. Check out the chicest London hotels For The Lover Of Luxury and For The Convenience?Fan in the May issue, on shelves nationwide now.