Hotel Spy: The Ampersand, London

Hotel Spy

Strawberries and dreams

Where

With London gripped by Wimbledon fever, the Ampersand provides the ideal place to rest your weary feet after tramping round SW19. This hot number in South Kensington boasts an enviable position within touching distance of a host of the capital’s major attractions.

This includes the famous Museum Mile containing The Natural History, Science, and Victoria & Albert museums. For opera buffs, don’t miss the iconic Royal Albert Hall whilst you can be a flaneur among the green spaces of Hyde Park which is a short stroll away. It is also just a hop and a skip from South Kensington underground station.

Meanwhile, luxury retail therapy opportunities lie within Knightsbridge, home of Harrods as well as Sloane Square which serves up numerous designer labels.

Tell me about it

This 111 room boutique hotel is an official member of SLH, Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The interiors offer plenty of whimsy set against a classic Victorian backdrop.

The choice of palette is bold to say the least while high ceilings and contemporary tones elude a grandeur and uniqueness that exudes just the right dose of ostentation.

Room interiors contain a host of botanical, geometrical as well as ornithological elements. This blends together with a plethora of musically inspired motifs that make the Ampersand as quintessentially British as Sir Winston sipping on a glass of Pimms. Deluxe accommodation offers botanical inspiration and space with royal blues as well as golden yellows and elegant bathrooms.

Relax in one of the freestanding tubs with a glass of bubbly or take one of the free soft drinks available from your very own minibar. Other amenities include a dedicated media hub and high speed internet access.

Champagne and bubbles

Fancy a taste of the suite life? Check yourself in to one of their indulgent suites on the fourth or fifth floor for an altogether unique experience.

With stunning panoramic views of London and plenty of geometric design that would make Einstein proud, you can sit and watch television from the comfort of the bath! Oversized rain showers, separate lounge areas and iPod docks complete the exuberant yet individual feel.

Hungry for more

Apero is the Mediterranean restaurant slash bar at Ampersand. This all in one outfit plays host to chic exposed brickwork not to mention vaulted ceilings and excellent cooking.

Why not start off with some delicate courgette flowers stuffed with ricotta and cucumber and move swiftly on to Welsh Marsh fed lamb cutlets finished with borlotti beans.

Indulge

The Drawing Room is the place for French pastries, cutesy tartines and an indulgent afternoon tea. Sit back and rest up amid plush couches, deep banquette sofas and a wealth of vibrant colours from deep reds to intense blues.

Think salon de thé with a sprinkling of English heritage. Tip your cap to other treasures such as the private dining room adorned with a cellar of fine wines.

By the way

The Ampersand offers a Games Room where you can practice your swing thanks to the full size table tennis table. For those sportier guests, private trainers can also be arranged.

A match made in heaven

Simon Lazarus

Simon Lazarus

Simon is a published journalist in the UK, US and Europe on a range of topics and currently has a number of clients in different sectors for whom he produces content on a weekly basis. Topics include travel, property, food, lifestyle, finance, hi-tech and business.

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