London - House Of Coco Magazine

Hotels & Spas January 31, 2024

Hotel review: London’s Amano Covent Garden is a great place to stay in 2024

Hotel openings are second to none in London – fitting for a city that attracts the millions of tourists that the UK capital does. Arriving in the West End at the end of 2022, Hotel Amano as firmly cemented itself as a trendy spot to stay when in the city and comes complete with contemporary interiors and a moody ambience.

Complete with its own immersive restaurant – plus a rooftop bar, which offers gorgeous London views, Hotel Amano has good reason to be on your radar the next time you book somewhere to stay in the capital. From the gorgeous gold bathtub (which has no doubt graced your feeds on Instagram and TikTok) to the brass chandeliers and risqué artwork, if you’re not already convinced, continue reading to see why this you should stay in this hotel during your next trip to London.

hotel amano visit london covent garden review — Why not book Hotel Amano in Covent Garden for your next trip to London?

Hotel rooms at Amano

There’s a large selection of room typs at Hotel Amano, meaning whether you’re looking for a snug space to stay overnight or more space for a longer trip, this boutique hotel can cater to everyone’s needs. From ‘cosy’ and ‘comfy’ rooms to ‘roomy’ and ‘roomy plus’, whatever your preferred bed size, Hotel Amano has you covered. For anyone looking for an extra air of luxury added to your trip, the ‘goldy’ is an essential booking – as there’s nothing quite as aesthetically pleasing and opulent as a gold bath tub and shower.

Amanogroup.com

Food and drink at Amano

Penelope’s

An Israeli-Spanish fusion restaurant, Penelope’s serves up innovative dishes for its diners. With an extensive cocktail and wine list, the premium plates we recommend would have to include the nduja pork belly and the black challa calamari (this might be the tastiest calamari we’ve had in London). The beef short rib is an excellent main course – while the ‘seafood on fire’ makes for an impressive dish if you’re looking for some dinner theatre.

hotel amano penelopes restaurant food dinner — Penelope’s at Hotel Amano offers dinner and a show

Speaking of dinner and a show, Penelope’s is known for its sophisticated decor, which provides a glamorous ambience. As well as contemporary dishes, the dining experience itself is immersive – particularly come the weekend, when the restaurant hosts its famous Isramani nights. You’ve not been to a dinner party like it, with sparkler-garnished cocktails, shots straight from the bottle and belly dancers galore.

Amanogroup.com

Amano Rooftop Bar

London knows a thing or two about a rooftop bar – and the terrace at Hotel Amano Covent Garden offers a gorgeous skyline view as you sit back and sip a cocktail. A unique panorama of the city, it’s the perfect place for an aperitif or post-dinner drinks. For anyone who needs a snack with their drink (our hands are raised), there’s a selection of bar bites available (coming from the kitchen at Penelope’s) so you can enjoy that gorgeous black challah calamari alongside your cocktail.

hotel amano rooftop bar london — Hotel Amano also has a hidden rooftop terrace bar

Overall, Hotel Amano is perfectly-located the for typical tourist or traveller visiting London. In the heart of the West End, the hotel is just a five-minute walk from Covent Garden tube station (seven minutes from Holborn and 10 minutes from Temple). In addition to good transport links, guests will find themselves literally nextdoor to attractions such as the Lyceum Theatre, the Royal Opera House, London Transport Museum and a short stroll from Leicester Square. If Penelope’s isn’t the preferred dining choice, guests are spoiled for choice with restaurants and bars in the West End.

The hotel is a small boutique style – so if you’re looking for somewhere with a spa, gym and the whole works, Hotel Amano might not be for you. However, what this hotel does deliver is gorgeous decor, comfortable beds in stylish rooms, good food and a rooftop bar – on the doorstep of one of the most popular areas of London. So, what are you waiting for?

Book your stay at Hotel Amano here

Restaurants & Bars December 21, 2023

Welcome to Dear Darling, Mayfair’s sexiest new private members club

Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies ventured into the heart of Mayfair to experience, what could be, London’s sauciest private members yet.

Dear Darling, tells a tale of identity and lust and invites partygoers to explore their deepest darkest desires.

On the surface Dear Darling is a beautiful luxurious Mayfair venue, complete with rich green banquettes, elegant cocktails and a sultry dimly lit lounge. If you look close enough at the artwork though, which is a bamboozling collection of wildly erotic nude paintings, and you’ll see that there’s more to this Mayfair haunt than meets the eye.

Located in Jermyn Street, arguably one of the poshest streets in town, Dear Darling offers an event space to remember. Its lavish interior, adorned with rich textures and opulent decor, spans two meticulously designed floors, each exuding an air of exclusivity and refinement.

The first floor is a sexy cocktail lounge called The Living Room, and even here you’ll quickly grasp the hedonism of Dear Darling with barely dressed performers wearing nothing but tassels and a lampshade drinking Champagne off each other’s bodies.

Downstairs is akin to Mr. Christian Grey’s own red room and you’ll be greeted by paddles on the wall, playful genitalia on the bathroom doors and performers who aren’t afraid to go to the extreme.

Of course, there was a rotating caged velvet bed, complete with a mirrored rood and surrounded by whips and other BDSM paraphernalia. This, of course, is the perfect Insta-spot if you’re not afraid to get a little naughty.

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Dear Darling is the epitome of high-end allure that’s perfect for those who embrace the risqué. A testament to its hedonistic spirit, Skepta and Jammer BKK alongside socialite DJ Lady Mary Charteris were on deck. At a minimum of £1000 tables a pop, Dear Darling certainly earns its reputation as the most decadent Private Members Club in town.

Book a table now at https://dear-darling.co.uk/

London December 21, 2023

Brama is bringing the buzz back to the Bromley Old Town Hall and we’re here for it

Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies went to check out Brama, Bromley’s newest and only boutique hotel.

Designed as a home away from home for the modern traveller, Brama has everything you need for a Southern home base. Whether you’re looking for a place to recharge before exploring the town, or a restful night’s sleep before a big pitch, Brama combines local flair with luxury as you like it.

This stunning hotel has 23 beautifully designed rooms that are cosy, contemporary and totally comfortable. The interiors draw from the Bromley community itself and is part of a major renovation of Bromley Old Town Hall, bringing new life to the much-loved historical building.

Steeped in history, the Old Town Hall officially opened in 1907, and has since played host to the wedding of David Bowie, the local seat of government, and even provided shelter in the event of a nuclear fallout during World War II. Its foundations were laid in 1906 and it was extended multiple times before sadly becoming vacant. The re-opening of Bromley Old Town Hall signals a reinvigoration of the building’s spirit and a renewal of its purpose.

From design to delivery, service to sustainability, every detail has been considered in the development of Bromley Old Town Hall, resulting in a space where collaboration and community can come to life. The building’s original breath-taking art deco design still runs throughout; Brama features subtle architectural nods to the era, incorporating modern elements for a comfortable stay.

The design-led hotel is perfectly positioned for locals, visitors and city workers alike, in the heart of Greater London’s most up-and-coming destination, Bromley was recently named the best area of London to live in.

We love flexible working space Clockwise and all-day restaurant Dorothy and Marshall – great for laptop warriors like us. located in the courthouse of the former Bromley Old Town Hall, Dorothy and Marshall pays homage to the building’s beautiful history and has an incredible menu of elevated British classics. With rooms starting at only £109 and a location close to all of Bromley’s cultural attractions – there simply isn’t a better place to stay in town.

For more information check out https://bramahotels.com/

London December 18, 2023

5 festive things to do in London on Christmas

With exactly one week until the big day itself, it’s time to spread some festive cheer and what better way to spend a Christmas day out than in London? If you’ve got a day off or are planning one final weekend visit to London before Christmas Day itself, we’ve planned the perfect day filled of festive things to do in London.

London is a fantastic city but with so much going on, it can be overwhelming to map out a plan of things to do – especially at such a busy time of the year. With spots to hit on your solo festive date or with friends, family and the kids, we’ve certainly narrowed down a fun day out.

From wandering around streets adorned with some pretty spectacular Christmas decorations to enjoying a festive meal (be it at your favourite restaurant or bringing that restaurant home with you), we’ve got you and your family covered. Whether you’re looking forward to festive food and drink or being pampered for your final Christmas party, one thing is for certain: you’ll certainly be getting into the holiday spirit while following the itinerary we’ve carved out for you below.

Christmas coffee with Benugo

festive things to do in London — It wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive coffee or hot chocolate

Take a stroll around London and take in the festivities of the city when crowds are (possibly) a little less intense. Grab a Christmas coffee from your nearest Benugo and wander around the city’s hotspots for Christmas lights, such as New Bond Street, the Regent Street angels, Carnaby Street, Trafalgar Square and many more areas. Our heads were definitely turned by the apple crumble latte but a winter spiced hot chocolate also never fails.

London pamper day at Christmas

festive hair duck dry london salon party updo — Achieve fuss-free festive chic with your hair, courtesy of Duck and Dry

Why not stop by Duck and Dry for a festive blowout or a new set of nails? Whether you want a bouncy blow-dry to match your mood or are looking for either a sparkly seasonal or cute candy cane manicure, this central London salon has you covered.

If you’re looking to get ready for party season with a stylish updo, you’ll be glad to know that the hairstyle is no longer just for weddings and more serious occasions, with them being a solid choice if you’re looking to show off some backless dress design – or, indeed, brave the glorious winter weather we’re graced with in the UK. At Duck and Dry, you can choose from the Top Kot, Ooh La La or Ducktail to add some festive glamour to your look – whenever the party may be.

duckanddry.com

Christmas lunch at Sushisamba

sushisamba things festive london lunch restaurant — Enjoy a festive feast at Sushisamba for lunch in London

Christmas has arrived at both the Heron Tower and Covent Garden locations of Sushisamba in London, with guests able to immerse themselves in what the restaurant has coined Sambazonia – a spectacularly festive experience. Whether you’re opting to sample the Festive Taste of Samba menu, which features a selection of seasonal specials – from arroz de lagosta (with a whole lobster) to a Samba Kaiseki platter – miso-ginger cured salmon, seared yellowtail with truffle and more – and Japanese wagyu maki. Of course, Sushisamba’s winter terrace is open for aperitif or digestif cocktails in the heart of the Covent Garden piazza, too.

sushisamba.com

Christmas at Winter Wonderland

winter wonderland christmas london festive fun — A visit to Winter Wonderland is only custom at Christmas

Yes, yes, we know it’s nothing new but if you’re heading to London for Christmas, a trip to Hyde park’s magical winterland is a classic choice. If you go in the daytime, you’ll find less crowds – plus, if you’re going to have a wander around with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, there’s probably not much more of a festive spot to do so. An off-peak ticket will cost you just £5, which isn’t too bad as far as activities go in the city – but be mindful that certain attractions (including ice rinks, the circus and a giant wheel) inside will require their own booking and come at an additional cost.

hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Christmas Dinner with Côte

cote home christmas feast new years eve steak turkey lobster — Sack off busy London reservations in favour of a festive feast at home with Côte

Making a reservation for dinner during the festive period can be more headache than it’s worth – so why not invite a few close pals over for a dinner party at yours? While Côte’s festive feast boxes are no longer bookable for Christmas, there are the New Year’s Eve menus still available so you can cook up a storm that will bring about full smiles and tummies across the board.

We thoroughly enjoyed the classic Christmas turkey, indulgent chateaubriand and vegetarian butternut squash and goat’s cheese pithivier with all the trimmings included, too. Proving that there is a good feeling to be had about the New Year’s Eve offerings, these include the likes of beef wellington, côte de boeuf, lobster and much more.

coteathome.co.uk

London December 15, 2023

The Best London Restaurants to celebrate New Year’s Eve

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve you want to be celebrating somewhere in style. Here’s our roundup of the best restaurants in London to see in the New Year.

A Unique German Festive Experience

German Gymnasium, is set to treat visitors with a uniquely German festive experience, inside their iconic Grade ll listed restaurant. Nestled in the heart of King’s Cross, with its rich history and distinctive interiors, it captures the very essence of German traditions.

For a truly German New Year’s Eve affair, guests can treat themselves to the set menu in the Restaurant. With 8 courses of local favourite dishes such as Seeteufel Rauchmantel, Letscho – (Monkfish, Tyrolean speck, rustic tomato & paprika sauce) or Kalbsroulade, Steinpilzfüllung, Serviettenknödel, Schwarze Nüsse – (Veal roulade with cep stuffing, red cabbage, poached bread dumpling & pickled walnuts), this menu will see the year out with a bang.

Looking for the perfect spot to welcome the New Year in London? Check out our restaurant ideas, offering a delightful mix of flavors and a festive atmosphere for a memorable celebration with friends and family.

A Vintage New Year’s Eve

This festive season, Quaglino’s, the renowned restaurant in the heart of St James’s, has delved into the allure of the Prohibition era, bringing guests a delicious menu specially crafted for an enchanting New Year’s Eve celebration.

Step back in time and welcome in the New Year with an unforgettable prohibition-style party. The evening will commence with dinner service at 5:30pm (with two seating options available), with the celebrations running into the early hours. Guests are encouraged to embrace the vintage flair of the 1920s with music from the Brooklyn Shakers and by dressing in 1920s attire.

A New Year’s Extravaganza by the Riverside

Get ready for an extravagant New Year’s Eve celebration at Skylon with magnificent views of the River Thames, a live performance by ‘The Revellers’ and a seven-course tasting menu designed to keep guests entertained to the stroke of midnight. The evening kicks off with a celebratory welcome Chambord Kir Royale, setting the stage for a lavish night. For those seated in the River View area, there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of the Mayor’s fireworks display, with the option for all guests to head down to the South Bank* for an up-close view. Skylon offers two options for the evening: the Early Bird Dinner, a three-course feast for £125pp, available from 5:30pm to 7pm, and the New Year’s Eve Main Event, priced at £375pp. The New Year’s menu features seven-courses showcasing mouthwatering morsels such as BBQ lobster, Heirloom beetroot, and a delicious trio of duck. The festivities receive an extra boost with a pre-dessert gin and tonic sorbet. When the clock strikes midnight, the fireworks display will light up the London skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the New Year’s celebration. It’s an evening of live music, indulgent dining, and fantastic views – an incredible way to welcome the New Year in London’s prime riverside spot.

(*Weather and security allowing, as organised by South Bank)

A New Year’s Sky-High Celebration

At 14 Hills, guests are invited to reserve their tables for a grand New Year’s celebration, waving goodbye to 2023. Whether seeking a lively party or a memorable dining experience, 14 Hills offers the perfect choice. Indulge in an unforgettable evening with panoramic views of London, exceptional cuisine, dancing, dazzling entertainment, and a resident DJ, all set 14 floors above the City. For an early seating between 5:30pm-7:30pm, you can enjoy a meticulously crafted Five-Course Tasting Menu priced at £90pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £65. The menu features delights such as Lobster, Langoustine bisque, kohlrabi, blood orange, and Fillet of beef Rossini with wild mushroom and Périgourdine sauce. For the entire evening, 7:15pm-22:00pm, the indulgence continues with a Six-Course Tasting Menu priced at £140pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £95pp. This extended menu includes additions such as Scottish halibut, scallop chou farci, caviar fish velouté. As the night unfolds, guests can end the night on a sweet note, with the Valrhona chocolate marquise, yuzu, honeycomb, and sesame.

Celebrate New Year’s in the Heart of Battersea Power Station

Nestled in the historic Battersea Power Station, Fiume extends a warm invitation to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Guests can bid farewell to 2023 with a crafted four-course menu, priced at £85pp, complimented by a glass of bubbles to set the festive tone. Prepare for an exceptional dining experience featuring dishes that include succulent Beef tartare, Lobster linguine, Roast duck breast or Poached monkfish, and a velvety Chocolate mousse. Fiume is collaborating with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto this festive season for a delicious cocktail menu. Guests can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season with the Grande Eleganza, a delightful blend of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Malfy Gin Originale, Smoked Rosemary Aroma, Lime Juice, Mediterranean Tonic, Sugar Syrup, finished with a sprig of rosemary. See in 2024 with an Italicus Spritz, a perfect fusion of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Prosecco, Soda, and Lemon. The festive cocktail menu also includes the Itoddycus, Negroni Bianco, and Salute!, each offering a unique and delightful combination of flavours. After dinner and cocktails, guests will be only be a short walk from the iconic Battersea Park firework show. A visit to Fiume is not to be missed.

A New Year’s Night to Remember

Embracing the allure of Mayfair, Sartoria invites guests to welcome 2024 with a grand Italian feast priced at £150pp. The journey kicks off with a glass of Franciacorta and a delicious amuse bouche. The evening features dishes such as a fresh lobster salad, artfully presented in a catalana style with caviar, and an exquisite Burrata tortelli, generously infused with truffle and grana padano. The star of the night, Black Cod, takes centre stage, accompanied by tropea onion and liquorice, promising a harmonious blend of flavours. Concluding this feast is a Chocolate cake paired with passionfruit mango sorbet, ensuring a sweet send-off to the year. Over the winter season, Sartoria is partnering with Cambridge Distillery to create a new menu focusing on their Cambridge Truffle Gin, adding a touch of decadence to the festivities. Guests can indulge in truffle-infused cocktails like the Truffle Vesper, Truffle Negroni, Truffle Margarita, and Truffle Bellini.

Spend This Festive Season in Luxury at The Royal Horseguards Hotel

For those looking for the ultimate festive experience, The Royal Horseguards hotel is offering a luxury New Years Eve menu providing guests with the most opulent black-tie experience. Dinner at One Whitehall Place includes a selection of canapes to start, steamed halibut with keta caviar or pan-fried fillet of beef in madeira juice with raspberry sorbet or peach puree to refresh. From 7pm – 2am, from £450 per person

London December 13, 2023

The MANOR London, the coolest new dance studio in town

Banish the winter blues and get dancing at The MANOR London, the coolest new dance studio in town

Our resident dancer Hannah Tan-Gillies checked out MVMT at The MANOR London, the coolest new studio in town, for a private heels class with Tarek Kwhiss. Here’s what went down.

Dance into Happiness at MVMT

If you ever need a pick-me-up to banish the winter blues, then believe us, there is no better way than by getting your heart rate going with a dance class.

Opened in November in Finsbury Park, MVMT at The Manor London is London’s premier destination for dance enthusiasts, aspiring performers and even for those just looking for a nice boogie as there are classes for all levels of dancers here.

Elevate Your Dance Experience

This state-of-the-art professional dance studio literally has everything you need to break a sweat. The changing room is complete with showers, blow-dryers and a full set of toiletries, while a cute little café in the lobby offers delectable (and healthy) post-workout snacks.

The class schedule is a thing of beauty. Of course, there is choreography, commercial dance heels, hip hop and even a Dance 4 Camera class, but there are plenty of non-dance classes too such as Vinyasa Yoga Flow Yoga and body sculpt.

We tried heels with Tarek Kwhiss, who is a breath of fierce fresh air in this dreary winter. Tarek has been doing heels for seven years and is also part of Netflix’s Dance 100 – so you know you are in good hands.

Unleash Your Inner Dancer: MVMT at The Manor London

Class started with a quick warmup and stretching *a must for any class, then a focus on technique. With heels, the walk and the attitude are everything so mastering the art of walking in heels and the confidence of walking is a must.

Then we moved on to choreo, where we unleashed our inner ‘naughty girls’ with a sexy, empowering and bombastic choreography of Beyonce’s early 2000s classic. Tarek broke down the steps very clearly, ensuring that I understood each sequence before moving onto the next one. While I certainly broke a sweat, the final performance was certainly well worth it. Check it out below.

So — if you’ve ever dreamed of moving like a dancer, this is the place to make that dream a reality. Book a class at MVMT at The Manor London today so you can unleash your inner dancer too.

MVMT at The Manor LDN, £20 per class, themanorldn.com

The MANOR London, Clifton House, Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London, N4 3JP

Food & Drink December 12, 2023

Seasonal Sips: A Modern Connoisseur’s Festive Tea at TĪNG Shangri-La

Embrace the enchanting spirit of the season and enjoy iconic views of London by indulging in a cherished English tradition: the delightful experience of an afternoon tea at TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge by Shangri-La. A recent visit to TĪNG by our House of Coco couple, Eulanda and Omo Osagiede inspired a festive mood and left indelible impressions.

A Time-Honoured Tradition With a Festive Flair

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and what better way to usher in the festive season than to enjoy the revered English tradition of afternoon tea at one of London’s most iconic restaurants and hotels?

The time-honoured ritual of English afternoon tea gets a touch of elegance when combined with the excellent service and hospitality of the world-renowned Shangri-La brand. The modern connoisseur can expect to enjoy a selection of hand-crafted sandwiches and pastries and an impressive collection of curated teas served with traditional elements such as a three-tiered serving tray, delicate tea cups and glistening utensils.

The annual experience of Christmas at Shangri-La saw us step into a beautiful winter-themed wonderland from the ground floor reception. We took the lift up to the 35th floor and were welcomed into a world of festive colours and sparkling decorations as we emerged into the warmth of the TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge.

Dispensing with the solemnity of tradition, the decidedly informal but festive setting of the TĪNG Lounge made us feel relaxed and created a mix of curiosity and excitement as we were ushered to our table for our afternoon tea experience.

Regardless of where you sit at the TĪNG Restaurant, British weather permitting, you can expect to enjoy commanding views of the London skyline including views of the Thames River, the ever-changing architecture of City of London, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf.

If the weather decides to act up, the unique architecture of The Shard means that you will have the unrivalled experience of dining in the clouds, similarities of which are featured in the TĪNG festive afternoon tea presentation.

Seasonal Ingredients and a Tea Adventure

Our experience began with a welcome blackcurrant purée and lemon juice palate cleanser followed by a sparkling glass of Louis Roederer Brut (Vintage 2015) champagne. Cocktails and mocktails are also options on the menu.

Attempting to choose from Shangri-La’s signature teas was where our adventure really began. Their extensive menu included a range of high-quality black, green, white and herbal teas with delicate flavours and indulgent aromas. We chose a Masala Chai – a spicy and robust brew – and a Green Gunpowder, a traditional green tea from the Zhejiang province of China.

The bottom tier of our three-tier serving tray held an assortment of crustless finger sandwiches filled with seasonal and fresh ingredients. Our selection of fillings included roast turkey, smoked salmon and cucumber, roast beef and truffle egg. Each bite into these moist and delicate sandwiches unleashed a range of delightful flavours.

In a slight departure from tradition (scones were served separately) the middle tier featured a savoury chicken and duck liver cherry jel hors d’oeuvre and a mini-burger containing roasted celeriac and confit black garlic.

The top of our tray tier was essentially Christmas on a plate with meticulously crafted miniature treats including a ‘Reindeer Mont Blanc’ made with blackcurrant and chestnut mousse and a ‘Red Bauble’ made with green shiso mousse, grapefruit and black pepper.

The quintessential freshly baked scones arrived after we had finished the tray items and were served with the traditional clotted cream and jam.

Elevated Experience and Impeccable Service

Our favourite and final item was the ‘Festive Shard’ white chocolate treat with a dry ice presentation that elicited the feeling of being amongst the clouds which, given our position on the 35th floor on a cloudy day, we actually were!

To wrap up our TĪNG festive afternoon tea, we dived back into the tea menu and made different selections. We spent the remainder of the time immersed in the views that surrounded us as we sipped our teas.

The entire experience was elevated thanks to the impeccable service provided by the attentive TĪNG Shangri-La staff, who ensured our utmost comfort and enjoyment.

The Festive Skyline Afternoon Tea at the TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge, Shangri-La, is available from 14th November 2023 to 14th January 2024, and is priced at £89, or £99 with a glass of Champagne. Afternoon tea is served between 12:30 and 15:30 on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) and up till 16:00 on weekends (Friday to Sunday). See ting-shangri-la.com/afternoon-tea

TeamCocopup December 12, 2023

TeamCocopup: The ultimate winter staycation in Mitre Hampton Court

Located in sleepy Richmond, with views overlooking the Thames, The Mitre Hampton Court is our top choice for the ultimate dog-friendly winter staycation this holiday season. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies and intrepid doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup Charlie ventured out to foggy Hampton Court to experience the festive delights of the hotel themselves.

Beautifully illuminated in fairy lights, you’ll see the façade of Mitre Hampton Court from a mile away. The hotel sits right on the edge of the Thames, giving it an almost ethereal quality that is absolutely ideal for evoking Christmas cheer. So much so, that not even the horrendous Surrey holiday traffic could dampen our spirits.

This characterful boutique hotel is as eccentric as it is cosy. Art is everywhere in this 17th-century Grade II listed hotel, from the illustrated map of surrey to playful portraits of King Henry dotted throughout. You are greeted by a glass of Taylors Port upon arrival, a perfectly warming gesture that hints at the level of service you can expect at The Mitre Hampton Court.

The hotel is hosting a wonderfully cosy Taylors Port pop-up in the terrace which is adorned with Parisian style furniture, outdoor kitchen, twinkling lights and roaring fires. We recommend sampling one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, which includes a Porto Negroni, Port Old Fashioned or LBV Martini before going for dinner at the lovely 1665 restaurant.

Led by Chef Mark Jarvis the gorgeous riverside 1665 restaurant offers British classics with an eclectic twist. We started off with the Teriyaki cauliflower popcorn and the wonderfully indulgent panko-crusted Brie. For mains, don’t skip the Pork Belly, which is tender, crunchy, savoury and perfect for a winter meal.

The house wine, a Domaine de Saissac Cabernet Sauvignon, was the perfect choice to pair with our hearty winter meal which ended with a slice of the restaurant’s delicious (and slightly savoury) burnt basque cheesecake – which was a revelation in and of itself.

cosy winter terrace with Taylor's Port pop-up

Breakfast is served at The Boathouse, where you can enjoy a nice cuppa while overlooking the Thames. The plant bowl is delish, but so too are the classic Eggs Benedict and Full English options. Almost all restaurants in Mitre Hampton Court have dedicated areas where you doggy can dine with you – which obviously gives it plus points from me and Charlie.

We stayed in the Thames View suite, which as the name suggests, has incredible riverside views. A gorgeous red patterned wallpaper decorates the space, while a handsome freestanding bath is a clear focal point. Designed by Nicola Harding, the room was spacious, colourful and appropriately festive.

There was a dog bed, dog bowls, dog toys and dog treats for Charlie too – who of course loved all the special treatment.

So – whether you are ‘In The Tub’ or ‘Out to Court’ (playful door signs which feature King Henry and Queen Charlotte respectively), there is certainly plenty to love at Mitre Hampton Court. We think it may even be the best festive dog friendly staycation this side of the Thames.

Book your staycation now at The Mitre Hampton Court Hotel

London December 12, 2023

5 of the best winter terraces for a romantic London date night this cuffing season

Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies has been scouring London for the cosiest, bougiest and most romantic winter terraces and experiences in London – that are perfect for cuffing season.

The Hari

Beloved Belgravia establishment The Hari has teamed up with famed Champagne house Ruinart for their winter terrace, which is open until 5 January. Under cosy heaters at the alfresco terrace, you and your boo can enjoy Ruinart’s Champagne accompanied by a selection of seasonal bites including Maldon oysters, a charcuterie board or a sumptuous baked Camembert.

Not to mention, the Hari’s talented bar team have also created a limited-edition cocktail for the season — The Gold 1729. This appropriately festive concoction is a sparkling cocktail combining grape juice, Hennessy, apricot brandy and topped with R de Ruinart Brut Champagne, served in a coupette. What better way to toast the holidays?

The Goring

Ramp up the festive vibes at The Goring, which has unveiled a mini ‘Winter Wonderland’ via an adorable giant snow globe installation. Designed and scented by British scent mavericks Jo Loves, the snow globe is the spot to capture the perfect winter selfie. Big enough for two people to step inside and equipped with vintage polaroid cameras for a memento to take away, you can get all the Winter Wonderland feels minus the tourist hoards. Plus, we think that spending an evening enjoying the expertly crafted cocktails (paired with delicious nibbles) at the bar is the very best way to catch up with a girlfriend this holiday season.

The Goring Cocktail Bar has an impressive selection of Champagnes, wines by the glass, and of course delicious cocktails. Led by Bar Manager Roberto Ferrero and his expert team of bartenders (who will shower you with compliments as you imbibe) the experience is elegant, festive and a perfect pick me up amidst the Christmas party rush. Click here for our full review.

Tattu London

Tattu London has teamed up with Grey Goose and Patron to offer a delightful new winter terrace experience called ‘The Great Snow’. Tattu is inviting Londoners to step into a winter wonderland encased in ice. Its iconic cherry blossom trees having bid farewell to warm weather foliage and now turned crystalline blue, branches glinting like fairy lights guiding us through the darkest months is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner date in town.

Dalloway Terrace

Dominating everyone’s Instagram feeds since it opened in Bloomsbury, Dalloway Terrace is a must-see in terms of festive winter terraces. This year, Dalloway Terrace has partnered with Perrier-Jouët Champagne for a Belle Epoque-inspired terrace that will take your breath away.

The Mitre Hampton Court

The Mitre in Hampton Court, a well-loved Surrey establishment, is hosting a fabulously cosy Taylors Port pop-up overlooking the Thames.

Located in sleepy Hampton Court and adorned with Parisian style furniture, outdoor kitchen, twinkling lights and roaring fires, we enjoyed a few warming glasses of Taylor’s Port paired with some of The Mitre’s classic dishes.

You can also sample one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, which includes a Porto Negroni, Port Old Fashioned or LBV Martini. With the largest vintage port list in London, lovers of the tipple will be spoilt for choice. Oh, and did we mention that Mitre Hampton Court was dog friendly too? Meaning you can enjoy this cosy winter terrace with your four-legged bestie in tow. Click here for our full review.

London December 12, 2023

Why The Goring is the best London date night spot for festive cocktails

Ramp up the festive vibes at The Goring, which has unveiled a mini ‘Winter Wonderland’ via an adorable giant snow globe installation. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies went to check it out.

Designed and scented by British scent mavericks Jo Loves, the snow globe at The Goring is the spot to capture the perfect winter selfie. Big enough for two people to step inside and equipped with vintage polaroid cameras for a memento to take away, you can get all the Winter Wonderland feels minus the tourist hoards.

Plus, we think that spending an evening enjoying the expertly crafted cocktails (paired with delicious nibbles) at The Goring Lounge bar is the very best way to catch up with a girlfriend this holiday season.

The Goring Cocktail Bar has an impressive selection of Champagnes, wines by the glass, and of course delicious cocktails. Led by Bar Manager Roberto Ferrero and his expert team of bartenders (who will shower you with compliments as you imbibe) the experience is elegant, festive and a perfect pick me up amidst the Christmas party rush.

We sampled some of the specialties including the Okawari, which is a refreshing combination of Yuzu, Akashi Tai Peach Soda and Mt Fuji Bitters. This wonderful cocktail, served in a traditional Japanese teacup, serves up authentic Japanese flavours in perfect harmony.

The entrance of The Goring hotel in Belgravia

Next up, The Flower Duet. Served in a Champagne flute and combining Leblon Cachaça, Blueberry 7 Rose Silent Pool and Ayala Champagne, this delicate spritz pays homage The Goring’s secret garden and is a perfect cocktail for all year round.

Finally, we ended with The King’s Cure. While the cocktail does take inspiration from the restorative penicillin cocktail, this fireside sipping drink combines Goring 9 Years, Cacao Butter, Kin’s Ginger, honey, pink peppercorns that is so delicious it is definitely fit for a king. The perfect remedy for the winter blues.

Click here to book festive cocktails and nibbles at The Goring