If you’re looking for a hotel with a big personality in a central London location, set your eyes on The Cumberland Hotel. Just a stone’s throw away from Marble Arch, it’s a great place to head to for some serious exploring in the capital. Luxurious Magazine’s Sabi Phagura went along to check it out.
This 900-room hotel may have changed its name to The Cumberland Hotel, but the building’s musical references remain. Located in a prime position just off Oxford Street, yet just yards from the expansive green space of Hyde Park and Marble Arch, this four-star hotel is the perfect base for a London visit.
Guests can shop till they drop, get their cultural fill through museums and historic landmarks, and then head back to the hotel to completely shut off from the world. But don’t expect peace in the lobby.
With a bar, restaurant and several places to hang out, not to mention Instagram-worthy photo moments, the place is abuzz pretty much around the clock.
Backstage and Suites
Upon check-in, I was pleasantly surprised to learn I was booked into a Star Suite. This meant I received full VIP check-in treatment within the ‘Backstage’ Lounge – an intimate space behind closed doors to the left of the reception. Taking a seat, staff handed me a much-needed tea, while they took care of the check-in process.
While my room was ready for me, I decided to lounge around a bit longer here to make use of the unlimited refreshments and snacks. It had been a bitterly cold day, and I enjoyed the sanctuary of the space with its comfy velvet sofas and uninterrupted Wi-Fi. I was free to use this area throughout my stay.
I eventually made my way to my suite on the third floor and opened the door to reveal 45 square metres of space housing a King-size Hypnos bed, a lounge area with a sofa bed, a separate dressing area and a bath area with a walk-in shower. The personal welcome note on my mirror, written with coloured pens, was a lovely touch.
While it was tempting to jump on the bed to catch 40 winks ahead of supper, I was distracted by a Crosley turntable and a box full of vinyl, as well as a Fender guitar and Marshall amplifier.
It was akin to a child finding themselves in a sweet shop. I’m happy to admit I’m no musician, but nonetheless, it was fun to pretend I could strike a few chords on the guitar.
While a complimentary minibar that is re-stocked up to three times per day, having some snacks in the shape of chocolates, popcorn, and fruit laid out for me as part of my welcome package was a lovely touch.
I nibbled through some of these items as I slipped into the complimentary robe and slippers to freshen up before heading down for a buzzing evening in the bar and restaurant.
Food, drink and entertainment
From the moment you step inside The Cumberland, it’s evident that this pet-friendly hotel is a vibrant, buzzy, happening space with plenty of comings and goings.
The foyer is huge, and throughout the day, there are scores of people milling around, whether they are on their way out to explore London or have come in to relax and take the weight off their feet.
There are plenty of music references to distract the crowds, and a colourful London cab sits in the middle of the lobby, providing further amusement and photo opportunity for the all-important social media capture.
To the left of the cab is an area for food and entertainment. Aptly named the SOUND cafe, it serves as a sports bar, a cafe serving food and drinks and a live entertainment space.
A further dining space, The Green Room in the basement, is reserved for breakfast, where you can find a lavish buffet for the morning after the evening.
It must be said that you don’t head to The Cumberland for food if you’re watching your weight. While there are some healthy meal choices, the menu emphasis is on old-school Americana – think steaks, burgers, chips and deep-fried concoctions.
What you will get, though, is a full belly and tasty dishes. But if you’re visiting the capital exploring on your feet all day long, you may just need it.
Hands down, this is one of the fun hotels you’ll walk into in London. The hotel’s bold and stylish decor and its friendly, chilled staff will make you feel like you’re on holiday across the pond. Everything is larger than life. Sometimes, only big will do.
The Cumberland Hotel London Marble Arch Info
Just yards from Marble Arch Underground station, The Cumberland is in Great Cumberland Place, Mable Arch, London, W1H 7DL.
Double and twin rooms start from £199 per night. Star Suites start from £455 per night.
For more information on the The Cumberland Hotel London Marble Arch and detailed information on its facilities, visit www.guoman.com/the-cumberland.
The images used in this review feature were courtesy of The Cumberland Hotel London Marble Arch.