If you’re looking for a hotel that combines classic British elegance with grandeur, then enter the Landmark London Hotel.
One of the most popular five star hotels in the capital, it has a distinctive style and ambience that sets it apart from many others. Arguably it’s the Winter Garden restaurant situated at the heart of the soaring eight-story glass roof atrium that gives it its unique character. The atmosphere and mood changes there depending on whether you’re having breakfast, lunch or dinner.
My first experience of the unique surroundings of the restaurant was the evening meal just shortly after my arrival. The exquisite setting and relaxed atmosphere can almost become a pleasant distraction as you sit there and shake your head in disbelief that such a wonderful place can be situated in the heart of one of the busiest capitals in the world.
The Winter Garden is a two AA Rosette eatery and has all the hallmarks of one. Hand dived scallops, Cornish crab lasagne, Terrine of Gressingham duck, and foie gras can all be found on the starter list while the mains consist of dishes like Aged Buccleuch fillet steak, Chargrilled rack of Cotswold lamb and Twice baked British cheeses soufflé.
If you’re a dessert person, then you’re in luck. The portions are sizeable! There are all the traditional cakes and puddings on the list but the Sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and vanilla ice-cream caught my eye. The pudding could have easily been shared between two.
The waiters are extremely friendly and are happy for you to stay as long as possible without the need to rush. Just as well – thanks to the glass top roof, the restaurant transforms into an elegant idyllic atmosphere as you experience the natural transition from day to night. With an extensive wine and champagne list to choose from, you can continue enjoying the somewhat romantic setting over a bottle or two.
The exclusive Mirror Bar is another place to enjoy both pre-dinner cocktails and a late-night tipple. This bar is created in a style reminiscent of the hotel’s Victorian heritage, finished in a selection of decorative mirrors. Some of the most delicious spirited cocktails, best champagnes and cognacs are served here.
The Landmark, situated across Marylebone Station, boasts 300 guest rooms including 51 suites. The hotel is renowned for its spacious suites in London and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Indeed the Marylebone Studio I stayed in was generous in size featuring a beautiful living area that is separated from the bedroom by a chic open archway. All suites contains 42-inch digital flat screen TVs with over 70 channels, Nespresso coffee machines and private bars.
The bathroom – like the living area space – is equally as spacious. With two basins, it felt like a ‘his and her’s’ personal bathroom. In fact, there is so much space in the studios, that you can’t help feeling you’re home from home. Furthermore, if you’ve got additional friends staying, the studio suites can be connected to a Superior guest room upon request.
However, you really do not have to stay in this property to take advantage of the facilities on offer. The hotel’s award winning Afternoon Tea is extremely popular with those wishing to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. One of England’s finest traditions means you can indulge in an array of sandwiches, French pastries and freshly baked scones. And if you really can’t say no to chocolate, you can treat yourself to a selection of delights with the Chocolate Afternoon Tea option. But for the ultimate treat, the Taittinger Champagne Afternoon Tea is a must.
The Gazebo, located underneath the eight storey glass atrium is the perfect venue for business meetings or a quick bite to eat. With plenty of comfortable seating, it’s an ideal location to have informal meetings and take advantage of the space’s Wi-Fi access. The Gazebo is also perfect for small wedding receptions, leaving drinks or small celebrations.
And if you wanted to get away from all that eating and drinking, step inside the Landmark Spa and Health Club – you’ll be suspended in pure tranquillity where muscle tension and the wandering mind’s worries will disappear. You can allow yourself to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised by choosing from a full range of exceptional treatments, massages and body car therapies.
So whether you’re a hotel guest or simply want to try one of their culinary delights, or even if it is merely to soak up the ambience with a drink or two, it’s an experience worth having, just to catch a glimpse of the Winter Garden.
www.landmarklondon.co.uk
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