The Cumberland returned to its previous identify in Might, after spending various years because the Laborious Rock Resort London. However regardless of the identify change, the musical associations of the 900-room lodge, which was Jimi Hendrix’s final official residence and residential to the unique Laborious Rock Cafe, stay. In reality, musical references abound, from the lodge’s brand (the letter ‘C’ towards the form of a guitar choose) to the Do Not Disturb “It is So Quiet” indicators (a nod to Betty Hutton and later Björk).
The lodge is owned by the Clermont Resort Group, the most important owner-operator in London by variety of rooms. The group was beforehand generally known as GLH Accommodations and earlier than that as Guoman.
Welcome
I arrived on the lodge round 8am – means too early to test in, however to have the ability to depart my baggage and get on with my day with out carrying it round with me. The concierge workers have been very accommodating, giving me a ticket so I might re-claim my saved baggage on my return.
That night, once more with my baggage, I went to register. I stayed within the Star suite and, after the reception established this, instantly led to a different ‘hidden’ and extra intimate reception behind closed doorways, and invited to sit down down with a glass of champagne. This non-public ‘Backstage’ lounge was an surprising perk, comes with limitless refreshments and snacks, and is offered to friends staying in govt rooms and suites.
Room
Angelica took me to my Star condominium (room 8005), who kindly helped me with my baggage. Usually I might be blissful to hold it alone, however with an surprising glass of champagne, some papers and room keys in hand, it all of a sudden grew to become a bit extra of a problem.
The condominium covers 45 sq. meters and comes with a super-comfortable King measurement Hypnos mattress. It may possibly really sleep as much as 4 folks because the sofa in the lounge doubles as a settee mattress.
It have to be over 30 years – possibly nearly 40 – since I’ve performed a vinyl report, however there is a Crosley turntable within the room and a field stuffed with vinyl, that includes the whole lot from Blur’s Park Life to Black Stone Cherry stay at The Royal Albert Corridor, in addition to Fender guitar and Marshall amplifier.
“Welcome, Paul!” it is written on a mirror that doubles as a peak chart, with marks starting from Snoop-Dogg (6’4″) to Ariana Grande (5’0″). At 6’0″, I share the identical peak as George Michael and Stevie Marvel. The partitions are additionally embellished with footage of Amy Winehouse and Bryan Might.
In-room facilities embody bathrobes and slippers, a free minibar refilled as much as 3 times a day, a Nespresso machine, a separate lounge, and all the opposite facilities you may count on.
Once I pulled again the curtains, I discovered I had a powerful view of the London Eye.
Toilet
The lavatory is ethereal and shiny, with floor-to-ceiling tiles and a separate bathtub and rain bathe.
Essentiel Components toiletries are supplied – a Gilchrist & Soames model that incorporates high-quality important oils, with out artificial fragrances or dyes, creating merchandise that nourish the physique whereas nourishing the senses.
Objects
One of many issues that strikes you once you arrive on the lodge is the huge area of the lobby. On the time of my go to, the middle of this was occupied by a London cab, offering friends with a enjoyable picture alternative; however to the left is a big area occupied by the SOUND Café, dubbed ‘3 locations in a single’ because it doubles as a sports activities bar, stay music venue and café serving meals and drinks.
Dinner could be very casual – I took a seat on the bar the place it was a little bit brighter for pictures. The image reveals squid with salt and pepper, fried in deep oil and served with chive and garlic mayonnaise.
My predominant meal was a primary New York strip steak, topped with herbed butter and spicy shrimp, served with triple-boiled chips, grilled mushrooms and tomato, with a facet of Caesar salad. I requested for a ‘very uncommon’ steak and it was completely carried out.
Down within the basement is ‘The Inexperienced Room’ the place a breakfast buffet is served each morning and there may be additionally an omelette station if you’d like one thing made to order.
location
Conveniently positioned at a crossroads within the coronary heart of London’s bustling West Finish, The Cumberland is just moments away from town’s iconic Marble Arch, typically considered the gateway to London’s tradition, procuring and leisure. Simply meters from Marble Arch tube station on the Central Line and with Hyde Park and the world-famous procuring of Oxford Road simply a simple stroll away (simply 5 minutes to Selfridges), the lodge is beautifully positioned.
Different good issues
Cumberland took extraordinarily excellent care of me. In my room was a bottle of soda, a plate of recent fruit and a few complimentary candies.
Prices
Double and twin rooms begin from £199 per night time.
Star flats begin from £455 per night time.
One of the best half
The exclusivity of the appliance was very surprising. It made an exquisite first impression, and the backstage lounge served as a quiet oasis of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the principle lobby.
Ultimate verdict
Impeccably combining trendy sophistication with traditional magnificence, my keep at The Cumberland was totally pleasurable. The lodge’s elegant ornament, spacious Star flats and attentive service create a nice ambiance for friends within the coronary heart of town.
Dislcosure: Our keep was sponsored by The Cumberland.
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