The historic Strand Palace hotel has long been one of London’s most sought-after accommodation options for a stay in the capital, with its central location and luxurious feel making it the obvious choice for those seeking style, comfort and convenient access to all that the city has to offer.
Enjoying a privileged location on The Strand, right between bustling Covent Garden and the Thames, it offers a quiet hideaway from the madness of the city. Having recently undergone a multi-million-pound refurbishment which has brought this breath-taking building bang up to date yet in a way that has successfully retained much of the 1900s charm for which it has become known and loved, I was pleased to have the chance to experience it first hand on a recent break in the Big Smoke.
Just a stone’s throw from Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, and right on the edge of theatreland, here’s all you need to know about it if you’re looking for a luxury hot spot in the thick of all of London’s action for your next stay in the city.
Hotel
Following its recent renovation, this sleek hotel is a stunning example of Art Deco design with a modern twist and has been brought bang up to date with a number of contemporary features in a way that showcases the best of both worlds. Entering via the sprawling lobby, a palette of simple white juxtaposed against soft teals, mustard yellows and dove greys welcome you, with the popular Haxells restaurant and Gin Palace bar lying beyond and offering a cosy and atmospheric vibe all of their own.
Facilities at the hotel include a fitness centre that is fully equipped with a range of state-of-the-art machines and weights, and two personal trainers on hand for those looking to keep a firm grip on their gym regime during their stay. And, with services including same-day dry cleaning and 24-hour room service, everything you need for a comfortable stay at The Strand Palace is readily available.
Rooms and Suites
The Strand Palace is a large hotel, comprising 785 rooms in total. There are two types to choose from – deluxe rooms, which are generous in size and feature a Nespresso coffee machine, complimentary mini bar and Hypnos bed, and the superior room, which comprises a range of modern essentials and provides a relaxing hideaway from the hustle and bustle of central London, with guaranteed comfort throughout your stay.
My deluxe king room showcased plenty of luxurious touches, with furnishings including plush velvet armchairs, an opulent marble-topped table, and of course, a sprawling king-size bed that was elevated to sumptuous new heights thanks to a lavish soft touch headboard, built-in lamps and a cloud-like mattress.
A flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi and Bose speakers made for a pleasurable entertainment experience when it was time to wind down for the night, and the espresso machine and tea tray on hand to wake me up again in the morning ensured I had everything I needed. Little extras, like the robes, slippers and White Company toiletries in the bathroom all added to the experience, and with a selection of soft drinks, Camden Hells beer, crisps and sweet treats that were replenished daily, there was always something on hand for an impromptu snack or drink should the mood happen to strike.
The décor was muted, with Art Deco touches and a large mirror running along the back wall to create the feeling of added spaciousness. Bathrooms, meanwhile, are reasonably large for a Central London hotel, with the Hans Grohe showers a particular highlight.
Food and Drink
The hotel offers guests two dining options – the Haxells Bar and Restaurant, and Joe Allen’s. Located on the ground floor, beside the lobby, Haxells serves up a menu of mouth-watering British cuisine throughout the day, with afternoon tea a particular highlight you won’t want to miss. Comprising a selection of loose-leaf teas and cakes, scones and sandwiches, it of course tastes even better washed down with a glass or two of champagne.
The space is atmospheric and of course features a range of yet more opulent Art Deco touches – from opaque globe wall lighting to smoky mirrored columns – while the private dining room, which is perfect for celebrating special occasions, will comfortably accommodate larger groups for birthdays, anniversaries or dinner meetings.
Lunch at the Haxells bar and restaurant was a tasty affair, with plenty of nibbles, big sandwiches and salads available to choose from. A stylishly decorated open plan space with comfortable chairs and modern British dining made for a comfortable setting in which to enjoy a classic club sandwich, which was delicious, filling, and provided much-needed sustenance for the busy day ahead. Served with a generous bowl of crispy fries and washed down with an Italian-inspired peach Bellini, it was a casual yet indulgent meal that ticked all of the right boxes. It does have to be said that service was a little slow, however – so expect a long and leisurely lunch, rather than a quick bite to eat on a busy day.
Breakfast is also served at Haxells, and comprises a large buffet spread which includes plenty of hot food options – think English breakfast favourites – as well as the usual cold continental choices such as fresh fruits, pastries and cereal. We were seated in one of the dining rooms off the main restaurant, which again, featured tasteful décor, with plush seating and sophisticated round tables – but eating here, away from the main area, did mean that again, service wasn’t as speedy as it otherwise might have been.
New York style brasserie Joe Allen’s, which has been welcoming actors and audiences from across the West End for over 40 years, is the hotel’s second historic dining spot, and features red brick walls bearing stage show posters from across the decades. A live pianist playing each evening throughout the week ensures that a chic and sophisticated atmosphere is guaranteed.
Recently, as part of the hotel’s renovation, both the restaurant and bar have been overhauled by Polpo co-founder Russell Norman and former Ivy executive head chef, Gary Lee, and today, Joe Allen’s is one of central London’s hottest dining spots. Its dark and atmospheric feel is reminiscent of the downtown drinking dens of New York and serving up a flavourful menu of classic dishes along with an impressive choice of Manhattan and Martini cocktails to round things off, it’s a must try should you have the time to spare.
Located on the ground floor of the hotel, Joe Allen’s is accessible via the lobby, near the porter’s desk. Don’t forget to stop off at the brand-new Gin Palace beforehand for a pre-dinner drink.
To do
Set in the heart of Central London, there’s no shortage of things to do when staying at the Strand Palace. Those visiting the capital on business will find themselves well-connected with the hotel snugly situated between Temple, Charing Cross, Covent Garden and Embankment stations, all just a short walk away – while anyone looking to indulge in a spot of shopping will find the endless options of Covent Garden right on the doorstep.
Historic sights like Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the Churchill Memorial War Rooms, as well as cultural attractions including the National Gallery and the British Museum, are also close by – and given that the hotel is on the edge of theatreland, with the Savoy Hotel and Theatre just opposite, it would be rude not to take in a performance or two while you’re here.
In a nutshell
The ideal luxury accommodation choice for those looking to be right at the heart of all Central London action, the Strand Palace is a stylish, convenient and comfortable pick for just about any type of guest – whether you’re in the city to shop, sightsee, enjoy a West End show, or all of the above.
Factbox
Address: 372 Strand, London, WC2R 0JJ
Tel: 020 7379 4737
Email: info@strandpalacehotel.co.uk
Website: strandpalacehotel.co.uk
Imagery provided by Strand Palace Hotel
