THE HOTEL: The Cavendish, 81 Jermyn Street, St James's, London, SW1Y 6JF. A historic four-star hotel in the heart of London's Piccadilly.
The check-in: The sole check-in attendant
in the stylish lobby was busy with another guest, but another member of staff promptly appeared and ran us through check-in and the breakfast set-up.
The room: An Executive room (pictured right) – its fittings and decor were in blacks, whites and reds, evoking a touch of Hollywood glamour amid thoroughly modern designs. A good size for central London, with great views across neighbouring rooftops to Big Ben, the Eye, the Gherkin and St Paul's. A deep double bed, chaise longue, wardrobe, desk, minibar, iron and ironing board, CD player and digital radio, tea and coffee making facilities, numerous lighting options and flatscreen TV all featured. The latter featured 17 channels (including all Sky Sports channels), films on demand from £10.95, plus access to more than 600 channels from around the world courtesy of a recently installed Acentic Panorama system – something usually targeted at five-star hotels, I was told. The spacious bathroom had separate bath and shower (which some-how managed to leak across the floor) and came with amenities by The White Company.
CDs were available to borrow from reception, while in-room internet access is 40p a minute up to a maximum of £20.
The business: There's five cloud-named meeting rooms all available with 'Green Meeting' delegate rates and catering for up to 80 people theatre-style. There's also free wireless access on the ground and first floors.
The restaurant: Starters are around £5-£10 and mains £15-£18 in David Britton's The Restaurant, where breakfast and lunch are also served. Breakfast service was on the slow side but it was exceptionally busy at the time. The Restaurant is located on the first floor overlooking Fortnum & Mason on Jermyn Street. There's also a funky lobby bar open late, featuring a good cocktails menu.
The verdict: Loved the room design and the views were an unexpected bonus. The hotel really lives up to its 'modern and stylish' billing, and has an enviable location.
The details: There are five room categories at the Cavendish, with rates for a Classic room starting at £145 per night. Executive rooms are from £240. Tel: 020 7930 2111; or see: www.thecavendish-london.co.uk Andy Hoskins
