Ah, London… It’s impossible not to fall in love with this city, which has everything you could ever dream of: restaurants to suit every taste, trendy shops, tourist attractions to discover as you explore, and neighborhoods with very different atmospheres. And of course, there are stunning hotels to welcome you. Among London’s must-see spots are the Firmdale Hotels : Tim and Kit Kemp, the owners of this «chain»—which is unlike any other—have created havens of peace with sublime decor that you never tire of.
If there is a Firmdale Hotel in New York, ...it is indeed the one in London’s Soho neighborhood that we wanted to tell you about. Located right in the heart of one of the English capital’s trendiest neighborhoods, The Soho Hotel showcases the interior design talent of Kit Kemp while offering undeniable proximity to trendy restaurants, theaters, bars, and shops. Greeted by a huge cat statue in the lobby, you’re sure to love this ultra-colorful, warm, and cozy place. The hotel is quite large, with 91 rooms, suites, and apartments: each room has been carefully designed to make you feel right at home, with absolutely perfect decor to boot.
Most Firmdale hotels have a restaurant: Refuel Bar & Restaurant welcomes you from breakfast through dinner. À la carte and buffet breakfast options, a bar ready to satisfy your every desire, and a quintessentially London atmosphere are on the menu: the’Afternoon Tea Champagne is an absolute must-try.
The Soho Hotel also has two features that we love about Firmdale hotels: the’Honesty Bar which invites you to keep track of what you’ve consumed from the small bar available in the common areas (lounge, library, reading room, etc.) and the movie theater, which features themed screenings (including children’s films), especially on weekends. Be warned: once you’ve experienced the charm of a Firmdale hotel, you’ll find it hard to do without it.
In a nutshell
- Hotels with unique decor that make them true gems.
- An ideal location in London, in the Soho neighborhood.
- We love the Honesty Bar and afternoon teas.
Dining: Mildreds
Located just a stone’s throw from your hotel, Mildreds is always bustling. A vegetarian restaurant where you’ll find busy executives, vegans, hipsters, and tourists alike, Mildreds is one of the establishments that have become landmarks in Soho. If you’ve never tried vegetarian cuisine, this is a spot that shouldn’t disappoint even the most die-hard meat-lovers among you. The dishes are creative, hearty, and varied, and the desserts are an absolute delight. Note: Reservations aren’t accepted—grab a drink at the bar by the entrance, give your first name, and wait your turn!
Website: www.mildreds.co.uk
With the kids
Firmdale Hotels cater to families, who are always welcome.
A children's menu is available at the restaurant, and everything you need for babies or toddlers will be provided upon request.
Toiletries and a bathrobe will be waiting for them in their room, depending on their age. In the evening, they can enjoy a glass of milk and some cookies.
The cribs are made of wood and are quite large, which is a real plus.
Every Sunday, there is a movie screening for young children.
