Musicians have long been associated with rock ‘n’ roll hedonism. Ever since the first TV was thrown from a hotel window or Ferrari driven into a swimming pool, I’ve always been fascinated by their antics. If like me, you day-dream of playing at the old Wembley Stadium, and if like me you can not hold a tune or play a note here’s my back catalogue of UK rock ‘n’ roll hotels where you can dream where others dared.
Sanctum Soho, London
Metallica’s Kirk Hammett wrote the iconic Enter Sandman riff at 3am after a late night jam at the Sanctum Soho, and no doubt many a budding rock star would love to replicate his antics. Well, at this hotel, you can. In fact, you don’t even need to have your own guitar – you can hire one from reception.
Professing to be “London’s first rock ‘n’ roll boutique hotel”, this hideaway for rock stars comprises just 30 rooms and is situated in London’s West End. And, as seen on the BBC documentary, Rock’n’Roll Hotel, the open-plan junior suites have been road-tested by Iron Maiden’s drummer, Nicko McBrain.
Ynyshir Hall, Wales
Situated in the beautiful Cambrian Mountains, this hotel is the perfect place to to unwind and relax. With just 10 exquisitely appointed rooms and an award winning restaurant, headed by Two Michelin Star holder Gareth Ward it is impossible to want to leave. It doesn’t sound very rock ‘n’ roll I hear you cry. Well, this possibly trumps all other contenders as a regular visitor is still Robert Plant, who when staying here was inspired to write the greatest song ever written, “Stairway To Heaven”.
The Portbello, London
Since it opened in 1971, The Portobello has welcomed a wealth of famous faces. Kate Moss and Johnny Depp reportedly took a Champagne bath there when they were an item (as you do). And what better endorsement of a hotel’s rock ‘n’ roll rep than Tina Turner’s decision to buy a house next door after numerous fun filled stays. I guess it is ” Simply the best”.
Hard Days Night Hotel, Liverpool
Anyone with even half an interest in The Beatles should give this hotel a whirl. As the world’s only Beatles inspired hotel, it’s awash with memorabilia that nod to the band described by John Lennon as “bigger than Jesus”. Each of the 110 rooms is individually decorated with specially commissioned Beatles artwork, while the hotel’s restaurant, Blake’s, is named after the artist who designed the Sergeant Pepper’s album cover.
The Malmaison, Newcastle
Louis Tomlinson of ID fame was allegedly booted out of this hotel recently for making a nuisance of himself. The reports are yet to be validated, but as the saying goes: there’s no smoke without fire. I personally would be very proud to hear that the baton of ill behaviour was being carried to the next generation by this young reprobate. If you’re keener on watching rock stars than copying them, be sure to make the most of this hotel’s ticket assistance service – the friendly staff will do their utmost to get you tickets for local gigs.
