Situated in the heart of Chelsea, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a hedonist’s dream. House of Coco writer, Beth Windsor checked in for a night of art, elegance and entertainment.
Fancy having a sleepover just a stone’s throw away from Sloane Square? Then 11 Cadogan is for you. Welcoming the great and the good for over a century, this is the place to enjoy all things Chelsea while feeling as though you’ve stepped into another world. Full of quirky touches and playful surprises, there’s delight around every corner in this 5* luxury hotel that just so happens to be the only Relais & Châteaux member in London.
Decadence and glamour are just some of the words that spring to mind when you enter the surroundings of this impressive hotel. Although, we say hotel, it feels more like a sophisticated, yet homely, private members club and as we take a seat in the plump velvet armchair in reception, we wouldn’t be surprised if someone served us an Old Fashioned while we wait.
Composed of four former redbrick townhouses knocked through to create one giant property, it’s slightly topsy turvy, but that’s just what adds to the appeal. Take some time to explore the rooms downstairs, the library is a book lovers dream filled with a wonderful collection as old as the hotel itself. It’s also the perfect place to cosy up with a copy of the latest issue of House of Coco may we add.
As you wander the decadent corridors, you’ll no doubt notice the collection of art that spans the walls. This has been made up over time, with some of the pieces being inherited from the former townhouses – we’ll let you decipher the originals for yourself. There’s a room dedicated to afternoon tea that doubles up as a relaxing workspace outside of these hours. However, our favourite part of the hotel has to be the gilded room where the mirrored walls are accented in gold – it’s like taking a tumble down the rabbit hole and ending up in Wonderland. This is the perfect place for an intimate dinner or sexy soirée, but the fact it has access to its own private apartment makes it ideal for a girls’ getaway.
Now for the main event – the bedrooms! With 34 rooms, 22 suites, and even 6 apartments, there’s something for everyone at 11 Cadogan Gardens. What we love most is that no two rooms are the same – meaning you can pick a room based on your personality – how fabulous! Whether you’re after something modern and understated, a suite with a sexy side or a room where you feel as though you’ve stepped into the renaissance, they have it here. The Victorian architecture provides each room with a beautiful backdrop thanks to the high ceilings and large, bay windows.
Our suite had the perfect balance of style and decadence with a stunning original stone fireplace in the living room over which hung a haunting black chandelier. The bedroom was hidden behind gilded mirrored doors (they must have known) which opened up to the sight of huge carved bed, fit for a princess. Of course, the first thing we did was have a bubble bath using the delicious Noble Isle products before snuggling up in our fluffy white robe.
We would have stayed there all evening if we could, but dinner called. Of course, a stop by the alluring Chelsea Bar for an aperitif first was essential, a bar we can only describe as having delicious decadence in every ounce. We suggest making your way through the cocktail list – you won’t be disappointed.
The hotel’s restaurant – Hans’ Bar & Grill – is located within the hotel, but also boasts a privileged position nestled amongst the delis and cafes of Pavilion Road. Modern, British design is the name of the game here which is also emulated in the British produce that can be seen on the menu. The food is as every bit delicious as one would expect in such a prime location.
We chose to have a lazy morning, opting to enjoy breakfast in our suite while watching the hustle and bustle of the mews street below before gearing up for a day exploring Chelsea, for there is much to discover in this area. Its location gives it a unique village feel, while you’re just a hop, skip and a jump (or a stumble depending on how many you’ve had in the hotel’s bar) to a fabulous offering of high-end restaurants, quaint coffee shops, designer stores and world-class art galleries along the Kings Road.
While here, you’d be foolish not to take advantage of the hotel’s partnership with the Saatchi Gallery which gets you access to the world-class gallery, as well as preview tickets to some of the most talked about exhibitions in town.
All-in-all 11 Cadogan Gardens is the place to be if you’re looking for a stylish stay outside of the city, but with all the fun and exclusivity that London has to offer.
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