A bolthole in Bermondsey
This 90-room boutique hotel is located in a less predictable neighbourhood of London than most, Bermondsey in southeast London, which has changed greatly in recent years (like so many areas), with bars, clubs, restaurants, art galleries, design studios and boutique shops scattered around. It overlooks an antique market on the square, from 6am to 2pm on Fridays.
Not much further afield are the City, Borough Market, The Shard, Tate Modern and Tower Bridge.
The hotel looks swish from the moment you enter, with a little ‘library’ section by the restaurant, with antique typewriters, a globe, anglepoise lamps and old books. The only disappointment is little plastic plants instead of the real thing, and an astroturf patio instead of grass. There are lots of attractive design touches, such as dried flower displays, exposed brick in the lounge area free flowing from the restaurant, sleek pale blue walls and a white tiled wall. Indeed, all the design tricks to swank somewhere up have been used.
It is a hotel that suits both business travellers to foodies and fashionistas, and those simply looking to relax and explore the local attractions whilst staying in the comfort of stylish accommodation rather than a nondescript chain hotel.
The guest rooms are bright and modern, with splashes of colour, whethert a vivid blue cushion or deep red bedspread. They have upscale feature such as luxurious beds, big LED TVs, an artfully designed workspace and tea- and coffee-making facilities or Nespresso machines.
Pets are welcome, as are children, and indeed there are some family rooms.
As well as continental, full English breakfast is included in the room rate for resident guests who have made their reservations through the hotel’s website. The great choice includes pancakes, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, delicious cheeses, compotes and yoghurts, and unusually a tasty cold beef. All day dining and afternoon tea are also offered.
Bermondsey Square Hotel, Bermondsey Square, Tower Bridge Road, Southwark SE1 3UN; 020 7378 2450; bermondseysquarehotel.co.uk