London is dusted with quaint boutique hotels that you’ve never heard of. Many are out of sight so you’ll need to delve a little deeper if you’re to uncover a hidden gem. One such gem is The Halkin, a discreet hotel by the Como group set in the quiet streets of Belgravia, London. Elysium arranged a stay to find out if the discerning gent would feel at ease during a stay for business or pleasure.
The Location
Set in the grand area of Belgravia, The Halkin is a short walk from Hyde Park. Despite the busy location, you’d never know it when inside the hotel. The area itself is very calm and quiet but if you wanted to liven things up, Knightsbridge, Piccadilly and Sloane Square are within rapid reach – perfect if the lady in your life is after some retail therapy. If business is on your mind, the City is a 15 minute taxi ride away.
The Halkin is a five star hotel made up of 41 rooms and suites. Its small boutique scale is perfect for anyone with a dislike of larger hotels without having to forfeit the very central location. There is also a gym equipped with cardio and free weights, while guests can also access the spa of Como Shambhala Urban Escape at the Metropolitan London Hotel – within a five minute walk of The Halkin.
The Room
Checking into one of the hotel’s Belgravia Suites, a presidential feel wafted through the air. Upon entering the room you already feel at home. The room has a separate lounge area decked out with the usual mod-cons, leading onto the very spacious bedroom. The bed is very comfortable, ideal for rest after a long day of shopping or walking the grounds of Hyde Park.
With the quiet location and comfy surroundings, calmness descends on you very quickly. The Italian elegance of the contemporary decor does play its part too – the look is far from dated, much to the discerning gent’s taste. After settling in it was time for food.
The Food
In a change from what is the Elysium norm, on this occasion we opted for a spot of late afternoon tea instead of dinner. This was a welcomed instalment into Elysium’s experience and something we’d highly recommend if you’re looking for some downtime. When we’re all leading such hectic lifestyles it might seem there isn’t time for the traditional afternoon tea. In the discerning gent’s world there should always be time for afternoon tea. A great treat for the lady in his life, but also a something he too can indulge in.
Afternoon tea at the Halkin is a classy affair. Sitting down to enjoy a wealth of handmade sandwiches with fillings such as smoked salmon or king prawn, pastries, scones and exotic tea is wonderful. Use the occasion to catch up with the lady in your life, shower her with compliments and satisfy your sweet tooth all at the same time. It’s a win-win situation, and if you’ve just been dashing around town led by your better half on a course of retail therapy you’ll appreciate the respite. At £37.50 per person, it’s well worth it.
After a night of blissful sleep and rest aided by the huge comfy bed, it was time to partake in breakfast at the Halkin’s signature restaurant, Nahm. The usual continental and full English options are available providing a hearty start to the day. Remember that no big decisions are made on an empty stomach.
Verdict
The Halkin is a little gem of a hotel, hidden away but not forgotten. Its true boutique scale and emphasis on good service will appeal to anyone looking for something with a great central London location close to major parks and shopping districts, whilst also being very close to the City too. Great for a leisurely weekend break with the lady in your life too. The discerning gent sometimes needs a spot of afternoon tea in his life too, so be sure to book this as a part of your Halkin experience.
The Details
The Halkin
Halkin Street
London
SW1X 7DJ
Tel: +44 (0) 207 333 1000
Deluxe room £560
Belgravia Suite £1,400