Category

UK

Category

For those holding on to the last of summer head to London’s iconic rooftop bar, Madison this weekend and be transported to the magic of the White Isle.

The City’s most stylish roof terrace has been transformed into an Ibiza-themed paradise. Expect boho chic furnishing, palms, and Balearic beats courtesy of the talented 10-person troupe: The Ibiza Orchestra. Incorporating a mix of brass, strings, singers and a DJ, this is the perfect way to end your summer.

Dance the night away to classic non-stop anthems while taking in the best views of the city skyline, and as the London lights twinkle below, indulge in some of Madison’s superb sips. Alongside the ever-popular Aperol Spritz, this new Madison menu delivers a selection of fresh, beach inspired creations guaranteed to give you all the Ibiza vibes. Here’s an exclusive preview of the top tipples they’ll be serving:

Aperum

A zesty mix of Aperol, Appleton Estate 12-Year-Old, Supasawa, ginger beer and mint

Pinaperol Colada

Reinventing a classic with Aperol, Koko Kanu, Wray & Nephew, Coco Lopez and pineapple juice

Ginger Lady Spritz

Swap your herbal tea for Madison’s Aperol, Aloe Vera juice, Prosecco, ginger and lemongrass cordial, plus crystal ginger cocktail

Exotic Negroni

For those with more bitter taste buds, try this irresistible mix of Campari, Mezcal, Pussanga Liqueur and Vermouth

The Ibiza Orchestra will be hosting this one-off event at Madison on Friday 30th September, bookings can be made here

Amidst the chaos of the world, nothing beats a relaxing spa staycation, especially with your four-legged best pal in tow. The Mallory Court Spa & Hotel is a beautiful Relais & Chateaux property in the heart of Leamington Spa. It is the epitome of a quintessential English country house and hotel, and mighty dog friendly too.

From the outside looking in, Mallory Court’s picturesque Grand Lutyens-style facade looks like it could be lifted from a John Constable painting. This award-winning hotel has four Red Stars from the AA, and a 3 AA Rosette award for its restaurant, and it certainly shows.

Inside, the hotel offers 43 elegantly decorated bedrooms that are as cosy as they are luxurious. The same tasteful restraint is expressed throughout the hotel’s spaces which are warm, inviting and evoke a sense of calm. There is a fabulous sitting room at the end of the main house and a garden Room, which is ideal for private lunches or dinners. The terrace is gorgeous and a perfect spot for afternoon tea or a glass of rosé.

We stayed in the dog-friendly Upton Suite, which overlooks the walled gardens. The spacious suite has a separate ensuite WC and bath, and was complete with a dog bed, bowl and treats for TeamCocopup Charlie.

The hotel is surrounded by 10 acres of perfectly manicured grounds. These is a beautiful rose garden, a croquet lawn, a flower garden and an orchard, which are great for idyllic walks with your pooch or for some mindful meditation.

There is plenty of space for energetic dogs like Charlie to run around, and plenty of beautiful scenery to feast your eyes on. Mallory Court grows much of its own herbs on-site, which adds authenticity and a true farm-to-table appeal to its award-winning restaurant.

Dining at the main restaurant is a splendid affair that brings elegance back to fine dining. Start with some aperitifs at the lobby, before indulging in the five-course tasting menu carefully crafted by Head Chef Simon Haigh and his brigade.

Using only the very best of locally sourced food on offer, and seasonal greens from the garden, Simon and team succeed in creating a menu that celebrates the richness and panache of British cooking.

We especially liked the heritage tomato salad, which was refreshing and grown just a few metres away from the restaurant, and the roast beef, which was rich, tender and delicious. Paired with an excellent bottle of pinot noir, you’d be hard done to find a better meal this side of Warwickshire.

No visit to the Mallory Court would be complete without a visit to the Elan Spa, which is everything you expect it to be and more. Hotel guests can also pre-book 1-hour pool access complimentary with any 55-minute treatment.

The spa, which is a sight to behold, has an indoor heated pool and outdoor jacuzzi. Outside there is a full tennis court, while inside there is a fully equipped gym and salon too. Inside, the spa is kept at a pleasantly warm temperature and is complete with sauna and steam room.

We tried the Rasul treatment, which combines the myriad health benefits of a steam or sauna, with the skin-enriching glow of a mud mask. The 20 minute self-treatment starts with a sugar scrub, followed by rounds of steam, mud, and some chromatherapy too. After 20 minutes of mud, steam, and pure relaxation – we left feeling lighter than air.

We also indulged in a quick 25 minute massage at the Elan Spa. The Spa uses luxury Elemis products, and is staffed by expertly trained therapists that will soothe your stresses and leave you feeling blissfully relaxed.

Amidst all the wonders of Mallory Court, what truly impressed us was the excellence and dedication of the staff. The service was first-class from check-in to check-out and everything in between. Led by General Manager Nick Hanson, who made sure our stay was five-star, the staff at Mallory Court were clearly a family and made us feel like family too. It is no wonder it is so highly regarded by all who visit. We, for sure, shall be returning.

Indulge your senses on 5* luxury in North Wales at country house; Pale Hall

Set in 16-acre grounds on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Pale Hall is a destination for exploration, relaxation and indulging your senses in their 5* luxury. Pale Hall offers each guest a personal, home-from-home experience where the service is second to none, the hotel will go above and beyond to ensure you have a magical stay; whether they’re packing up your picnic for a day of exploring or delivering your morning newspaper to your room, no stone goes left unturned at Pale Hall.

The Garden Suites

We spent two nights in the Garden suite ‘Fern’, with it’s stand alone roll top bath, walk-in shower, spacious bedroom, coffee machine and luxury towelling bathrobes, the suites really offer an air of luxury.

The Welsh countryside themed decor will have you captivated when you step through the threshold, with calming greens and prints inspired by nature – the suites really capture tranquility that reflect their surroundings.

Fine dining at Pale Hall

Acclaimed three rosette and Michelin green star fine dining restaurant features signature dishes from Pale Hall head chef, Gareth Stevenson. Rising star Gareth showcases his creativity and skill through the fine dining menu.

We experienced the exquisite 8-course tasting menu accompanied by the wine flight served by the hotels Sommelier. Our experience lasted several hours and was an evening we will truly cherish; the food, atmosphere and experience was out of this world.

Top Tip

One of the recommended trails from Pale Hall during our stay was Dolgoch Falls, located just an hour drive from the hotel and I couldn’t recommend this visit anymore. Dolgoch Falls are a series of three picturesque waterfalls located in Gwynedd, North Wales. Take a slow walk around the falls, take a picnic to eat by the stream then finish off with a dip in the falls (cold, but oh so worth it!).

For more information about booking your stay, fine dining experience or afternoon tea at Pale Hall, visit

www.palehall.co.uk

The Lakes by Yoo: A luxurious chic retreat in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Situated in the heart of the Cotwolds lies The Lakes by Yoo; spread across 850-acres, the luxury estate offers both residential residences and second homes if you’re looking for a more permanent abode.

The Estate

At The Lakes by Yoo you’ll find freshwater lakes, meadows and woodlands to explore (you can explore by foot or by bikes if you prefer). Whether you’re looking to snuggle up by the fire with a good book and make the most of switching off, or if you’re a slightly more adventurous type then fear not as The Lakes offer water sports, workshops, fishing and outdoor activities.

If you’re looking to unwind during your stay then The Orchard Spa is for you, featuring a 17-metre swimming pool, gym, sauna and treatment rooms. Designed by award-winning architects, The Orchard Spa really does capture the very essence of nature and tranquility.

Lakeside Apartment

We had the pleasure of spending the last night of our road trip in a Lakeside Apartment at The Lakes by Yoo; these luxurious apartments boast 3 bedrooms, lakeside views from a private balcony, a large soaking bathtub, superking bed (two of the bedrooms offer twins which can be made up as a superking or two singles) and a fully equipped kitchen.

As there was only the two of us we had our choice of bedrooms; we opted for the bedroom with the lakeview as it was a magical view to wake up to!

Dinner at Elsa’s

Grab a bite to eat at Elsa’s; The Lakes casual dining offering complete with outdoor seating area, log fires and stunning views of the lake. The rustic yet luxe decor will have you feeling cosy and at home in no time, food is served by renowned chef Alex Nutt (we had the pleasure of dining with Alex and thoroughly enjoyed our evening & his wonderful company).

Expect to find a relaxed menu using local ingredients, delicious snacks, and a bar that satisfies both your wine and barista coffee needs.

To inquire about your stay at The Lakes by Yoo, visit

www.thelakesbyyoo.com

Escape to nature at Cynefin Retreats, Hereford

“Cynefin (pronounced kin-ev-in) is a Welsh word with no direct English translation, meaning ‘rooted in place’, somewhere we instinctively belong.”

Located on the Welsh border, Cynefin Retreats are the ultimate luxury escape surrounded by nature. If you’re looking to switch off for a few days, then look no further than Cynefin Retreats; set amongst woodland you’ll be able to soak up the silence.

The Luxe-Pods

If you’re looking for a romantic retreat then the Luxe-Pods are for you, cosy, intimate, yet beautifully designed with a wood burning stove, floating bed, hot tub on the deck, walk in shower and an open plan, fully equipped kitchen – these pods offer luxury, charm and escapism.

The Luxe-Lodges

The Luxe-Lodges are the newest addition to Cynefin and each offer two spacious bedrooms making them perfect for friends, families, or if you’re just after a little more space.

In the lodges you’ll find a super king bed (and a twin bed in the second bedroom), a private decking with hot tub, BBQ grill and fire pit, standalone bath tub and separate shower.

These beautiful timber clad lodges nestle seamlessly into their lush surroundings, offering a tranquil retreat.

Exploring the local area

We recommend spending half a day browsing the stunning market town of Hay-On-Wye, less than a 10 minute drive from Cynefin Retreats. Dubbed the book town of the UK, Hay-on-Wye houses over 30 bookstores! Stop off for some lunch at eclectic ‘The Old Electric Shop‘ for some delicious Vegetarian food!

www.Cynefinretreats.com

*20% off luxe-lodge stays booked before 14 October with codes:

NEWLODGE20 – stays before 22 December 2022, or

NEWLODGE2023 – stays from 3 January – 30 March 2023*

The UK’s hottest new hotel opening?

Located in the heart of rural Staffordshire; The Tawny Hotel which opened in July 2021 has already earned itself the reputation as one of the hottest new hotels in the UK.

Set in over 70 acres, the hotel prides itself on being the first ‘deconstructed’ hotel in the UK, essentially merging all of the best bits of a hotel and rolling it into one fabulous destination. With five lakes, a recent spa partnership with Gaia Spa (located in the hotel’s thatched cottage) and luxurious accommodation from Hillside Treehouses to Cedar-clad Retreat Cabins – there’s something for everyone at The Tawny.

The Retreats

We spent two nights in The Tawny’s newest and most luxurious accommodation offering; The Retreat suites. Eight new Cedar-clad cabins launched in August this year, inside you’ll find a sunken bath tub, a super-king size bed, windows framing the breath-taking views and out on the terrace, an outdoor spa bath for wildlife watching and star gazing!

The decor in the Retreat suites was stunning, from wooden clad headboards, to subtle nature prints – it was the perfect way to capture the very essence of the property and really bring the outside in.

The Grounds

Pop on your wellies (the hotel has some if you forget to pack yours!), and explore the picturesque grounds of The Tawny – set in 70 acres it will set you back a few hours to explore by foot, the hotel also offers bikes if you’d prefer.

We were assured that most guests head to The Tawny to simply ‘do nothing’ (that was exactly our plan too!), but if you’re keen to explore then take a dip in the hotels heated outdoor pool, a guided yoga glass or pre order a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.

Oh, and keep an eye out for the hidden ping pong table for a quick game!

The Plumicorn

We dined at The Plumicorn resturant during our stay and enjoyed the most equisite meal, the menu is ever-changing based on the Chef’s passion for seasonal produce, I enjoyed the Duck and Ben ordered the Lobster – delicious!

We found ourselves back at The Plumicorn for breakfast before we hit the road onto the next leg of our road trip; so it was a latte and Pancakes with natural yoghurt and fresh berries to start the day right!

One-night stay at The Tawny starts from £230 in the Wildwood Huts, £360 in the Lookout, £400 in the Boathouses, £420 in the Treehouses and £560 in a Retreat, based on two sharing and inclusive of bed and breakfast.

www.thetawny.co.uk

Nestled away in the Cotswolds countryside, a mere 5 minutes from the M5 sits the majestic Stonehouse Court Hotel.  A 17th Century Manor house steeped in history at every turn and overlooking the Stroud Valley this is one of those hotels that hits the mark in such a way, you don’t want to leave and I’m not just staying that. We planned our trip around visiting friends in nearby Stroud. We had an itinerary of drinks, dinner and a walk around the grounds at Stonehouse and then on to meet them. However, when it came time to leave both my partner and I pouted at the thought of being expelled into the real world. I didn’t care that I hadn’t seen said friends in a year – I wanted to drink red wine in the paneled bar before languishing in the in room roll top bath and then falling into a deep slumber in the biggest bed you ever did see. Alas, apparently it is rude to bail on your friends that have been looking forward to seeing you for a month and so, the boyf and I agreed on a time where we had stayed just long enough to be deemed appropriate so we could get back to base and make the most of that tub!

Within the hotel are 36 bedrooms, nine of which sit in the original manor house – these are the suckers you want for the full Lord and Lady of the Manor experience. The additional rooms are housed in more modern extensions. We stayed in the Master Suite complete with a super king size bed, roll top bath, walk in shower with views over the valley and all the players you like to see – fluffy robes, coffee machine, mini bar etc.  Allegedly Queen Elizabeth I stayed in the very room – hey, if it’s good enough for Liz, it’s good enough for me. The views from this room were quite simply breathtaking, original windows sunken into the stone opening out to offer a vista of rolling hills, lush green fields and huge skies – I honestly just wanted to sip my champagne and gaze at what could be a Bob Ross painting until the sun went down but our in room checks wait for no one.

Once checked in, bed jumped on, sheet thread count checked and mince around the room in a robe complete we decided we should make the most of the last few hours of summer sun and take an amble through the gardens. As we bimbled down the gravel path, through the red brick walls, under the bowing trees we found ourselves on the Stroudwater Navigation canal complete with everything you would hope to see on a balmy summer night in the Cotswolds – weeping willow, a family of swans – goslings all flapping legs and fluffy feathers, someone off in the distance shouting at their Labrador to heel. It was idyllic, the perfect place to walk or sit and watch the world go by.

Returning to the grounds through the very Secret Garden-esque arched pathway, we made our way to the restaurant. Full disclosure, the dining room, in my opinion, does not stand up to the quality of the rooms – think table runners, striped carpets and glassware that could bounce. However, I do accept that I have exceptionally high standards when it comes to all things tableware and restaurant interiors. Our meal was good. We opted for twice baked parmesan and truffle souffle and a scotch egg to start and sirloin steak and lamb breast dish for mains. The souffle alluded that it may have seen a dash of truffle oil during some part of its birth but alas, it was missing the shavings of fresh truffle I was hoping for. The scotch egg hit the spot as any scotch egg should, jammy yolk, crispy breadcrumbs etc. My steak was cooked to perfection and served with proper chips and a vat of thick, rich Bernaise.  The FOH team are fantastic – friendly without being overbearing, knowledgeable about both the menu and wine list and happy to help in any way possible. They deserve a special shout out.

After dinner we headed out to meet our friends. Nearby Stroud is only a ten minute drive and is a bustling town full of artists and creatives. If you are staying at Stonehouse Court and want to explore a little more than the hotel grounds, I would highly recommend a day or night bumbling around. With its vast array of cafes, pubs and independent shops there is something to do at any time of the day and its music scene is fantastic so be sure to check out what is on when you are in town.

Sated on red wine, red meat and good conversation we headed back to our base, picking up another bottle of red from the bar on the way, this is what I had been waiting for. The bath to end all baths – deep enough to lose yourself in, full of bubbles, glass of red in hand and log burner burning (yes I know it was a balmy summer night but I wanted the full experience). I can never quite place my finger on what makes a tub in a bedroom such a decadent experience compared to a tub in a bathroom, maybe the absence of the toilet and the promise of what is to come and with that a jolly good sleep et al was had.

Our stay was completed by a full English being delivered to our door to help with any hangovers that may or may not have made themselves known. If a bath at the end of the bed doesn’t scream “I’m a princess and I love it” then chowing down on crispy bacon, fresh orange juice and strong coffee is crisp white sheets most definitely does.

Stonehouse Court offers decadence and convenience for those looking to explore the Cotswolds or break up a grey M5 journey with a spot of luxury. The room prices certainly dictate the level of frill you get and whilst the food offering isn’t exceptional it is very acceptable. The traditional manor house, sitting within the rolling hills is quintessentially British and certainly ticks the boxes of those looking for the Jilly Cooper country escape and because of that, it’s a yes from me.

Find out more about Stonehouse Court here.

Set at the end of the famous Church Street, Twickenham’s culinary destination, Tsaretta Spice is Indian but not like you’ve had before. A fixture in South West London’s vibrant dining scene, its a firm favourite with locals who come in their droves to feast on dishes that are inventive and bursting with flavour.

The unique menu focuses on “tapas style” small dishes that offer a distinctive twist on Indian food that allows you to sample more of what is an extensive and very impressive menu.

The choice can easily be overwhelming but fret not, the attentive staff are knowledgeable and will patiently explain dishes on the menu and recommend you their favourite cocktails. True to a traditional Indian dining experience your dining experience kicks off with the obligatory poppadoms that are served with home made chutney to rev up your appetite. The fresh mango lassi topped with dried pretty edible petals is as creamy as it is tasty, and is the perfect accompaniment to the entree.

To start with, go for the Prawns Tokri, a dish of the juiciest black tiger prawns that burst with ginger, garlic and curry leaf flavour. Before moving on to the next delight, ensure the tilapia fish used in the Punjabi fish fingers is prepared by defrosting frozen tilapia properly, enhancing its marination in lemon and carom. These cushion-soft delights melt in your mouth, showcasing the best of tilapia when carefully prepared.

A close second to that is the Punjabi fish fingers made from tilapia fish marinated in lemon and carom. They are cushion softy delights that literally melt in your mouth. After that tuck into the crispy chilli aubergine smothered in a lovely glaze, whilst a spicy, tangy sauce makes cauliflower come alive in the popular Manchurian cauliflower, one of Tsaretta Spice’s signature dishes.

Then move on to the mains and try the delicately spiced flavours of the succulent spice soaked goat curry. It’s slow cooked and falls off the bone; perfect for mopping up with the flaky peshwari naan bread that accompanies it. For a more savoury take, the spiced minced meat stuffed keema naan is also exquisite. Other favourites include the delicious Sharabi lamb shank, fragranced with fenugreek, chilli, mint and rum. Pair this with the hot off the cooker, mushroom and garlic pilau for a perfect combo.

The inspired cocktail menu offers a spicy twist on traditional cocktails. I dare you to not guzzle down the Spicy Pimpri Martini, an imaginative concoction of Tequila, Strawberry Puree, Elderflower cordial, prosecco and chilli. The coconut and lychee colada made of kraken rum, fresh coconut water, coconut cream and lychee is a refreshing palette cleanser that beautifully counterbalances the rich, spicy flavours.

The pudding menu certainly doesn’t disappoint. Round off a perfect evening with the rish and sticky gulab jamun (doughballs in a delicious sweet syrup) served with vanilla ice cream. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent the pimped up hot chocolate will have you in a merry mood and ready for the next part of your evening.

Tsaretta Spice, Twickenham

twickenham@tsarettaspice.com

Wedged between Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire is Rutland, home to rolling countryside, lakes and hiking and biking trails, making it a fabulous destination to reconnect with nature. Whether you are looking to escape the everyday with your beau, disconnect with your girlfriends or get active as a family, Rutland is a fantastic location for a mini-break. Just two hours outside London, I took the opportunity to kick back and make the most of country living.

Clematis Cottages are part of Lodge Farm, located in the medieval hamlet of Aunby near Stamford. Situated on a hilltop, it’s enveloped by fields and forests and from the moment I arrive I feel myself relax. Stone outbuildings which are believed to date back to the eighteenth century have been sympathetically restored and tastefully converted into rental cottages, retaining many original features to provide luxury accommodation furnished in keeping with the building. I stayed in The Eco Barn, which was spacious and homely, incorporating many eco-friendly elements. It is split across two floors and the top floor, which has a large, dedicated lounge area offers the most amazing views of the countryside. With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a generous sized kitchen and lounge area, it’s a beautiful base to retreat and unwind. The peace and tranquillity that surround the cottages bring instant zen to my stay. Owners, Kaye and Richard, grow all their own fruit and vegetables, and I arrive to a welcome package of fresh eggs, milk, and home-made jam. Richard is also an avid Beekeeper, and his honey is divine. Close to the market town of Stamford and not far from Burghley House and Belvoir Castle, the cottages are in a great location to explore the local area.

Rutland Water, a large man-made reservoir is the focal point of the county. Rutland Watersports offer a range of exhilarating activities, and the team are all knowledgeable, advising on the best activity to suit your goals. I opted for some kayaking to start followed by a bit of paddle boarding. I recently tried kayaking for the first time and loved it so was excited to get back on the water. It’s a brilliant way to switch off. The sun was beaming and the views around the lake were gorgeous. After an hour exploring, I hopped on a paddle board. I’d passed a couple of people effortlessly gliding along the water and after my kayaking success I thought I’d give it a whirl. This was not as easy as it looked, and I spent most of the time on my knees. I wobbled along for 15 minutes before my abs and arms gave up. You can also windsurf and sail, with an option to hire equipment. The team run courses, personal tuition and have an activity programme geared up for beginners through to seasoned sailors.

For those looking for a bit more action there’s a large inflatable Aqua Park on the site. Thrill-seekers can slip, slide and splash at one of the UK’s biggest inflatable outdoor water parks. The Aqua Park features the UK’s tallest obstacle: The Rutland Mammoth. Plummet from the giant slides or free fall from a staggering five metre drop. This Ninja Warrior style course is great fun and will test you to the limit, ideal for families and groups

You can also hire bikes and explore around the water, it’s pretty flat making it just right for a leisurely pedal.

After all the fun on the water I had worked up an appetite. Just 10 minutes from Clematis Cottages is The Olive Branch pub. Situated in the pretty village of Clipsham, this is more than a local pub. Their accolades include Michelin Pub of the Year, Winner of the Good Pub Guide UK Pub of the Year for 2021 and nominated as a Finalist in the GQ Food & Drinks Awards Pub of the Year 2021 and upon arrival it’s easy to see why.

The team are on the ball and friendly. After been shown to my table I am swiftly served drinks and given the low down on the menu. The outdoor space has been converted into a series of ‘garden party’ style gazebos for the summer season. Our tented table was awash with colour and detail. Gingham napkins, dainty flower vases and candles set the shabby chic vibe, while fairy lights, cushions and throws make it cosy and intimate.

The kitchen is overseen by Head Chef, Luke Holland and the menu is determined by the availability of homegrown, local produce. It’s not your usual pub fare, Holland has successfully combined a gastro menu with fine dining touches. I started with a flavoursome Braised ham hock served with heritage radish and perfectly balanced with a light, tasty apple and lovage velouté. The Olive Branch fish and chips are a firm favourite and it’s easy to see why. The haddock comes encased in an airy, crispy beer batter alongside triple cooked chunky chips with soft fluffy centres and a delicious homemade tartare sauce. The team regularly run masterclasses and tasting sessions. Inside the pub there’s a bottle shop for those looking to take the party home. The Olive Branch has successfully combined provenance and quality which is why snagging a table here isn’t easy. Book early to avoid disappointment.

For more information on where to stay and what to do visit Discover Rutland

These days, it’s rare to come across something that makes you think – ‘why hasn’t anyone thought of this before?’ which was exactly the case with South Place Hotel’s new Retox to Detox package. Team Coco ventures into the buzzy City to see if South Place Hotel’s new package is worth the hype (spoiler alert: it is)

If you’ve ever gone out out over 30, then you must try South Place Hotel’s new Retox to Detox package. City’s most vibrant boutique hotel has teamed up with Vitamin Drop specialists Get A Drip to offer the ultimate party-weekend experience for partygoers whose hangovers have worsened with age.

No need to sacrifice a whole weekend binge-watching the latest reality show after a night out, because South Place has created the solution with its Retox and Detox package.

South Place Hotel is artsy, cool, vibey and effortlessly so. A destination within a destination, South Place Hotel Is conveniently located to all of Shoreditch’s hipster haunts and the City’s sky-high bars – a perfect base for a night out. Not to mention, the hotel’s Secret Garden – which opens every Friday from August – is also an excellent spot for cocktails with guest DJs adding further allure.

We checked into one of the studio suites, one of the 80 stylish bedrooms in South Place Hotel. The suite was stylish, spacious and had plenty of delightfully clever amenities that we didn’t know we needed in our lives until right now. The BNO TV, for example, can be spun around remotely. No need to fumble with HDMI wires, because you can connect your laptop to the TV straight from the desk. The minibar, if you can call it that, contains a fabulous selection of artisanal gins and spirits – perfect to get the party started.

RETOX

There is also an in-room ‘Black Book’ Party Guide which gives you the low-down on the coolest late night spots this side of East London. We were also greeted with some champagne and delicious fruits – perfect to set the pre-game mood.

Package guests can enjoy a complimentary Tanqueray Gin cocktail at the hotel’s buzzy 3 Bar in the lobby, but we recommend also having a cocktail (or two) at the rooftop terrace just before sunset. We promise that you won’t get better views of the City.

For dinner, check out South Place Chop House’s new summer menu. Led by Head Chef Jack O’Riley, there’s plenty to chew on here (pun intended). From the generously sized Large King Prawns starter, which is cooked with chili, garlic and parsley butter to the Cobble Lane Charcuterie-board which offers Cappa, Lomo, Salami and Chorizo with a creamy celeriac rémoulade.

The star of the show is of course the Josper grill. Here, you can enjoy a selection delicious, juicy grass-fed steaks. Each cut is carefully aged, succulent and works perfectly well with a variety of delicious sauces and sides. They say a good meal is a precursor to a good night out, and so after our delicious dinner at Chop House – we danced the night away in East London.

DETOX

Going ‘out out’ often results in dehydration, headaches, and a general fatigue -which gets worse with age. Don’t fret – because South Place Hotel comes to the rescue with the detox part of the package. Start with a hearty breakfast the Chop House, followed by a Vitamin Drip treatment in your room.

Get A Drip is London’s top IV clinic and offers different drips depending on your needs. We went for the Energise drip, but you can also opt for Hydration Immunity or Detox. The IV Drops are administered by a certified nurse – and will not just give you a post-drip boost of energy, but leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and energised for up to four weeks after your treatment.

Once properly detoxed, South Place Hotel takes the relaxation further with a one-hour full-body massage at the Wellness Centre, so you can banish the aches from the night before. Believe us – once you check out of the South Place Hotel – you’d be asking yourself ‘where has this been all my life?’