Mama Shelter has made its highly anticipated debut in London, marking the city's first hotel dedicated to mindfulness. Alongside Mama Shelter, we've selected other exciting new accommodation options that are sure to enhance your London holiday experience, with rates starting at just £99 per night. You can explore more of these exceptional hotel selections on http://www.hotels-of-london.com/en/type/hotels-12/. This comprehensive site offers a look into various types of accommodations throughout the buzzing city of London. Additionally, don't forget to check out tophotels.com for exclusive reviews of the crème de la crème of hotels in London. Not only will you find the best rated places to stay, but also useful travel tips and recommendations for your stay.
Mama Shelter London, Bethnal Green, E2
What sets it apart?
As you step into Mama Shelter, you're greeted with a heartwarming message that reads, "Mama loves you," delicately inscribed on a charming blue-and-white china plate. But this quirky little detail is just the beginning. The hotel's unique aesthetic takes center stage with whimsical decor, including a lamp adorned with rabbit feet and ears, and birdcage-style cabinets crowned with beaded Darth Vader helmets. Look up, and you'll be met with vibrant graffiti art by graphic designer and artist Beniloys, blending contemporary patterns with historical references like the rule allowing Freemen of the City of London to guide sheep over Tower Bridge. And for those seeking entertainment, Mama Shelter offers not one, but two karaoke rooms reminiscent of the 1950s, complete with retro-style microphones.
Experience Mama Shelter's unparalleled charm and mindfulness while exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Bethnal Green, E2. But that's not all! Discover four more remarkable hotels that have recently undergone impressive transformations across London, providing guests with exceptional stays that cater to their every need.
Mama Shelter sets itself apart from other city hotels of similar size with its unique design elements. Established in 2008 by the Trigano family, co-founders of Club Med, and renowned designer Philippe Starck, the brand now boasts 12 locations worldwide. The brand's first hotel in the United Kingdom is an eye-catching, matte-black building situated on Hackney Road, near Bethnal Green. Adorned with black-and-white striped awnings, this hotel exudes a bold and distinctive character.
The ground floor of Mama Shelter serves as a vibrant living space that doubles as a restaurant. Drawing inspiration from various sources, the space is furnished with comfortable sofas, adorned with Aztec prints, and showcases ceiling-mounted fireplaces and vintage lampshades. It's truly a treasure trove of curiosities. With an immensely popular restaurant and an internal courtyard cocktail bar featuring a retractable roof, the hotel offers an exciting and lively atmosphere.
With 194 en suite rooms spread across four floors, Mama Shelter London provides a range of accommodation options. I had the pleasure of staying in a medium double room on the second floor, which was both compact and modern in its design, offering comfort without unnecessary frills. The attention to detail in the overall design and furnishings creates a pleasant ambience.
Mama Shelter also caters to its guests' dining needs, offering delicious breakfast and dinner options. The hotel's restaurant serves a delectable breakfast spread to start the day off right. For dinner, guests can indulge in a diverse menu that showcases the culinary talents of the hotel's chefs.
All in all, Mama Shelter London offers a distinctive and captivating hotel experience, combining unique design elements, comfortable accommodations, and culinary delights that will leave guests with lasting memories.
At Mama Shelter, you can indulge in a delightful selection of small plates and platters that are perfect for sharing. Drawing inspiration from the local area, the menu offers a range of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Experience the irresistible flavors of the pork belly baos, accompanied by a tangy char siu sauce, crisp pak choi, and zesty ginger. For a refreshing dish, try the tuna crudo, served with pickled kohlrabi, ponzu, and calamansi dressing. And don't miss out on the truffle ricotta pizzette, a delectable treat that combines the richness of truffle with creamy ricotta.
Adding to the culinary adventure, Mama Shelter presents larger plates that cater to diverse preferences. From classic French fare to vegan options, posh kebabs to a hearty pie, mash, and liquor platter, there's something for everyone.
As for breakfast, you'll be spoiled for choice. The buffet spread offers a wide variety of options such as smoked salmon, pastries, muffins, cereals, and yoghurt. There's even a juice-it-yourself stand. You can also enjoy a selection of cooked dishes, including a vegan bean mix in tomato sauce and flavored rice. However, please note that breakfast is not included in the room rate and costs £15 per person.
If you're up for exploring, Hackney Road and Cambridge Heath Road are home to a multitude of cafes waiting to be discovered.
What's in the neighborhood?
A short stroll away you'll find the Cambridge Heath Overground, just two stops from Liverpool Street, or make your way to Bethnal Green via the Central line in about 10-minute. For a traditional English breakfast experience, visit E Pellicci, a favourite since 1900, or try the iconic 24-hour bagel shops on Brick Lane. Additionally, immerse yourself in the cultural richness of east London with a quick visit to iconic places like Columbia Road Flower Market, Broadway Market, and Hackney City Farm. If you're interested in arts, the Museum of Childhood is just around the corner, as is Vyner Street, a hub for indie galleries.
Quench your thirst at a wide range of local pubs, taprooms, and speakeasies, including the critically acclaimed Marksman pub or you might prefer Sager + Wilde, located conveniently below the railway arches. For the nocturnal souls, Oval Space, the Pickle Factory, and Metropolis are the go-to places for late-night entertainment and LGBTQ parties.
What's the cost? A double room starts from £99, room-only. A dinner for two would average around £60 for two courses.
Is it worth it?
This place perfectly balances fun, affordability and style. It's in a prime location, and notwithstanding the extra charge for breakfast, it still offers good value for money. For more details, visit mamashelter.com.
Inhabit, Paddington, W2
What’s it like?
To get to “London’s first mindful boutique hotel”, as Inhabit calls itself, I walk from Paddington station, mid-construction frenzy, along some of the capital’s least zen streets, past fast-food joints, souvenir shops and roadworks. The hotel, set across six Georgian townhouses, is covered in scaffolding (the hotel is still in a soft-opening phase) but once I’m through the door, Inhabit’s Scandi-inspired interior dotted with plants exudes calmness.
The first thing I notice is the wellness programme at the front desk (of which more later); the reception, dominated by a woollen wall hanging, leads into the library, painted grey and blue, and furnished with Danish chairs, and bespoke pieces by Goldfinger Factory, a local social enterprise. Cushions are by Hertfordshire-based Aerende, which sells homewares made by vulnerable people in the UK. The hotel is clearly paying more than lip service in its commitment to wellbeing, thinking about its responsibilities beyond its guests: during the renovation, a link-up with Globechain helped reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill; in keeping with its aim to be single-use plastic free there’s bottled water on tap on each floor and re-useable glass coffee cups for sale in reception.
Daily wellness sessions include morning meditation (free), yoga (£10 a class) and guided walks (£10) into nearby Hyde Park. This week, meditation pods with headphones are being installed providing a space for guests to have a 10-minute guided session. I’m booked in for a Yin yoga class, which involves lying down for a series of very gentle stretches – or “constructive rest” as the teacher puts it. It does the trick: the muscle tightness after a day sat in front of a computer screen disappears. A session in the infrared sauna (free) compounds my sense of relaxation. I’m all set for an early night – and to see if Casper mattresses live up to the hype.
What about breakfast and dinner?
The cuisine is meticulously prepared by the renowned Yeotown Kitchen - an offshoot of the upscale Devon retreat that carries the same name - and boasts a primarily plant-based, nutritional and seasonal menu. The unconventional breakfast buffet deviates from the typical spread of cereals and pastries, showcasing dishes such as coconut milk-infused rice porridge, roasted veggies, and delectable frittatas. Expect to be delighted and surprised, as I was when I mistook a vibrant ginger and turmeric "elixir" for citrus juice - a concoction I found surprisingly enjoyable. Turmeric is also generously represented across an array of à la carte breakfast options, including the savory eggs royale, served with a dairy-free hollandaise sauce and an option for smoked salmon at just £9.
Classic dishes like smashed avocado feature prominently, but the menu also offers a roster of vibrantly unique treats that will demand your full attention - both while ordering and enjoying. To name one, imagine indulging in the orange blossom tigernut-flour muffin-top pancakes, complete with creamy coconut yogurt and a berry compote. The beverages are equally fascinating, featuring a "medicinal mushroom latte" artfully concocted with mushrooms and a hint of maple syrup. It's a scenario that might leave an Absolut Extraordinaire like Patsy from Absolutely Fabulous puzzled the following morning. But in this age where many are reducing their meat consumption or following a flexitarian diet, it's delightful to see a hotel offering alternatives to traditional pastries and full English breakfasts.
For guests preferring the room-only rate and looking for local alternatives, there are numerous proximate options. Delight in the decadent pastries of Bonne Bouche on Praed Street, or explore the quaint artisan coffee shops nestled around Paddington Basin and Little Venice, such as Department of Coffee and Social Affairs and Beany Green. Adding to its existing offers, the hotel restaurant will be launching a dinner service, open until 9 PM from the upcoming month. Until then, a curated guide of recommended eateries is conveniently provided in your hotel directory.
What awaits beyond the hotel doors?
Embark on a serene exploration of London's areas, just steps away from the heart of this busy city. In a brisk 10-minute walk south, you'll find yourself in Hyde Park, offering vast expanses to discover. This park also features the Serpentine Gallery, a lake catering to swimming and boating enthusiasts, plus the tribute to Princess Diana - the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Adjacent to Hyde Park is Kensington Palace, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Kensington Gardens. Paddleboarding enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic route from Paddington Basin – a cherished spot in the SUP community – leading to the cozy nook of Little Venice. As you journey northeast along the canal, you will pass architectural marvels like John Nash's imposing houses in Regent's Park and the well-known London Zoo on your path to Camden.
Pricing?
Starting from £150 for a room, excluding meals.
Is it Worth the Expense?
While more budget-friendly alternatives exist for those seeking just a simple night's rest (such as the relatively new Pilgrm), upon checkout you'll have the sensation of returning refreshed from a brief retreat – a notable benefit for a stay that hasn't required you to leave the confines of London. Visit inhabithotels.com to learn more.
Written by Isabel Choat
The William IV, Kensal Green, NW10
Experience the Charm of a 200-year-old Pub
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of London at the William IV. This quaint 200-year-old pub, located on the historic Harrow Road, offers a unique and charming atmosphere that will transport you to a bygone era.
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting bar and dining area, seamlessly blending traditional charm with modern comfort. The low lighting accentuates the polished wood and vintage-style leather sofas, creating a cozy ambiance. Adorned with nautical knick-knacks and magnificent model ships, you'll feel a true connection to the Sailor King himself.
While many Harrow Road pubs have succumbed to redevelopment, the William IV stands tall as a testament to preservation. Its dedicated owners have meticulously brought back the essence of a true pub experience, reviving it from what was once a shisha bar, DJ venue, and shabby bedsits.
The 15 spacious en suite rooms are tastefully decorated, boasting old-world charm with feature fireplaces and soft, pale walls. The plush carpets offer a level of comfort that rivals even the coziest beds, guaranteeing a good night's sleep. The minimalist white tile-and-marble bathrooms add a touch of elegance to the overall simplicity of the rooms.
If you're a light sleeper, we recommend requesting a room at the back to escape the noise of the Harrow Road traffic. This will ensure a peaceful and restful stay.
What are the dining options like?
While the walk along Harrow Road from Kensal Green station might not offer many eateries, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the imaginative gastropub-style menu at this hotel. Indulge in a vegan starter of wild mushrooms with crispy kale and white bean hummus, or savor the flavorful chorizo and cannellini on sourdough, which is like a tastier version of traditional beans on toast.. On Sundays, don't miss the delectable feast of meat served on platters, accompanied by an assortment of vegetables. If you're in the mood for a refreshing drink, head to Dorothy's Gin Garden, where you can enjoy outdoor seating, discover exotic gins, and peruse a unique cocktail list.
The dining experience at this hotel doesn't end there - breakfast in the dining room is a fantastic way to start your day. Sip on coffee and indulge in sourdough bread, pastries, and an assortment of cheeses, meats, and fruits from the cold selection.
What attractions are nearby?
Directly across lies the lush expanse of the 72-acre Kensal Green cemetery, an aesthetically pleasing establishment inspired by Paris’s Père Lachaise. The Grand Union canal forms a picturesque boundary on one side. The resting place boasts famous personalities such as Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Wilkie Collins, Anthony Trollope, William Makepeace Thackeray, and merchant WH Smith. In comparison, the opulent stucco mansions and serene squares of Notting Hill sit just a mile away. Available transportation includes routinely scheduled buses to Wembley Stadium, only a 25-minute journey away.
How costly?
Rates start from £110 for Bed & Breakfast.
Is it worth it?
Considering the charming antiquity of the environment and the warm reception, it's certainly a bargain particularly for those looking for lodging in the west London vicinity. Visit their official website here: williamiv.london
By Liz Boulter
The Buxton, Brick Lane, E1
Discover the Thomas Buxton Hotel
Located on Osborn Street, just a stone's throw away from Brick Lane, the Thomas Buxton Hotel is a charming red-brick and stone building that has recently undergone a stylish renovation. Owned by the same group behind The Culpeper, this late-Georgian gem now features a trendy bar-restaurant on the ground floor and 15 tastefully designed bedrooms spread across the upper four storeys.Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the bar area, with its floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. While it exudes the charm of a traditional pub, the bar offers a contemporary touch with modern furnishings, including stools at the bar and high tables where you can enjoy a drink while observing the skilled chefs in the open kitchen. Previously known as the Archers Tavern, the hotel was aptly renamed after Thomas Buxton, the renowned social reformer who made significant contributions towards the abolition of slavery, capital punishment, and the founding of RSPCA.The stylish bedrooms at the Thomas Buxton Hotel are compact yet functional, boasting a clean and minimalist aesthetic. Featuring exposed brick walls painted in bright white, concealed wiring in sleek aluminium tubes, and thoughtfully placed amenities such as a TV and tea/coffee supplies on a small chest of drawers, each room offers a cozy retreat. The ensuite bathroom setup includes a washbasin within the bedroom, ensuring a more spacious feel, while the privacy of the shower and toilet area is maintained through an obscured-glass sliding door. Despite its urban location, the double-glazed sash windows effectively keep any outside noise at bay, guaranteeing you a peaceful night's sleep.Experience both the vibrant energy of the surrounding neighborhood and the comfort of the newly refurbished Thomas Buxton Hotel during your stay in London. Book your room now and enjoy a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience.Please check out the accompanying images for a visual tour of the hotel.
Exploring the culinary delights
The hotel boasts a team of skilled chefs who work diligently in their open kitchen to prepare an array of delectable modern European dishes. Their menu features a variety of options, including the catch of the day sourced from the nearby south coast. Say goodbye to the typical pickled eggs found in East End pubs and say hello to mouth-watering treats like rillettes, terrine, and radishes with cod roe. And let's not forget about the perfectly cooked chips on offer for those who crave a classic snack.
For starters, indulge in the refreshing chilled pea soup with roasted hazelnuts or savor the succulent scallops drenched in garlic butter and paired with samphire. If you're a fan of pasta, the fresh tagliatelle tossed with courgettes, ricotta, and shaved raw asparagus will surely satisfy your cravings. While the fish of the day, a generous portion of cod in a delectable shellfish jus, pleases seafood enthusiasts, it is quite surprising that there is no vegan main course option available considering the trendy location of east London.
Complementing the culinary experience is an equally imaginative breakfast offering. However, options for vegetarians and vegans are limited, with the notable exception of the delectable harissa-baked eggs. Enjoy your breakfast with a cup of excellent coffee and a selection of delightful pastries.
Exploring the neighborhood
During our stay, the ambiance was notably festive at sundown due to the Ramadan celebrations. The local Muslim community flocked to Brick Lane's mosque to end their day-long fasts. This eclectic street also hosts a variety of late-night entertainment hotspots like Big Chill and 93 Feet East, alongside an enticing selection of curry houses and two well-known bagel shops. With the light of day, one can leisurely explore nearby Petticoat Lane and Spitalfields markets, or marvel at the art on display at the Whitechapel Gallery.
What's the cost?
Nightly rate for a double room is £100 B&B.
Is it worth the expenditure?
Absolutely! Considering its prime position near the City and the lively Shoreditch district, the price is more than justified, particularly as it includes breakfast. To book a stay, visit thebuxton.co.uk.
LB
Red Lion, Leytonstone, E11
So, how is it?
Nestled at a bend of Leytonstone High Road, the Red Lion provides transportive comfort on a tempestuous Monday night. A 1960's rhythm creates a calming background as we unwind with a non-stressful meal, chat over a glass of Malbec, and partake in a game of Scrabble, knowing that the wonderful convenience of our beds is only a short trip upstairs. The newly decorated 10 bedrooms of this pub exude timeless elegance, with shades of olden-green, walls bedecked with floral print, grand velvet drapes, raw brick walls, and vintage furniture items. My accommodation, a top-grade double room on the second floor, can be accessed from the main pub or a secondary entrance. The aesthetic can be best described as a chic boutique hotel infused with the intrigue of Peaky Blinders - a rustic aura complemented by a sprinkle of 1920s charm. Although the room is placed towards the high road which can get a bit noisy because of the night buses, its location is undeniably well-placed, being merely a three-minute jaunt from Leytonstone tube station which delivers you into the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.
The Red Lion, originally inaugurated as a pub in 1670, has witnessed several transformations - from a salsa and music hot spot to one of the first London stages that Led Zeppelin graced - before reverting to its pub roots in 2011. It was the team at Antic - known for their successful venture of a string of pubs throughout London, including the celebrated Dogstar DJ bar in Brixton - that breathed life back into the establishment, given it a touch of domesticity with a combination of eclectic vintage sitting arrangements and a spacious beer garden. The venue pulses with activity, hosting quiz nights on Mondays, DJ performances on Fridays and Saturdays from 9pm till 2am, and indulgent roast meals on Sundays.
What about the food and meal services?
The cuisine at this establishment is truly exceptional. Guests can indulge in a variety of delightful dishes, all carefully crafted to satisfy every palate. The delectable seasonal menus feature a selection of tantalizing options for both lunch and dinner.
Some notable highlights include the mouthwatering cauliflower-cheese croquettes, priced at just £5.50, as well as the exquisite smoked mackerel paté with pickled beetroot, available for a mere £6. For those craving a taste of the sea, the creamy saffron and parsley sauce accompanying the mussels is a true delight at £6.
For heartier appetites, the pearl-barley risotto with slow-roast tomatoes, kale, baked ricotta, artichoke, and beetroot crisps, priced at £11, is a must-try. And let's not forget the generous portion of sausage and mash with savoy cabbage and onion gravy, a comforting dish priced at just £8.
The tempting menu also includes a delectable slow-cooked lamb ragu rigatoni at £12. Vegetarian options are available as well, such as the enticing beetroot and quinoa burger with caramelised onions and goat’s cheese, priced reasonably at £10.
To end the meal on a sweet note, guests can indulge in a rich chocolate pot accompanied by rosemary biscuits and candied orange peel, a delightful treat priced at £5.50.
While guests can enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee within the comfort of their rooms, it's important to note that breakfast is not served at this establishment.
What’s on the doorstep?
If you're looking for an early morning bite, the Wild Goose Bakery is conveniently located a few steps away. Alternatively, Le Petit Corner is just a short stroll down the same street. Unwind in the vicinity at The Birds with their themed, unlimited brunch options; indulge in exclusive prints at Hooksmith Press, and delight in inviting cocktails at the Heathcote and Star.
A few miles south, in Walthamstow, you can weave culture into your culinary journey with visits to the William Morris Gallery and Vestry House Museum. Local gourmet favourites include Eat17, Orford Saloon for tapas, and the In Vino Veritas wine bar in the village. Moreover, in the vicinity of God’s Own Junkyard neon art gallery, the Ravenswood industrial estate boasts of microbreweries and a gin palace.
Cost details:
Double rooms starting at £83, room-only. Expect to spend around £50 for a two-course dinner for two, including wine.
Worth the Investment?
Definitely, considering the charming locale and the reasonably priced dining and drink options.