London Travel Report: A Tale of Two Exceptional Hotels

Advertising Feature: As the winter chill begins to embrace us and the festive season beckons, Bill Murray and his wife have embarked on a delightful journey from the serene south coast to the bustling heart of London...

Our voyage commenced at the Sea Containers Hotel, an extraordinary establishment nestled along the picturesque Thames riverbank. Designed by the renowned Tom Dixon, this hotel embodies modern elegance and luxury. From the very moment we arrived, we were enveloped in warmth, greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne, an exquisite gesture that instantly made us feel like cherished guests.

The hotel's transatlantic-inspired décor beautifully pays homage to the grandeur of 1920s liners, seamlessly blending with the artistic spirit of the nearby Tate Modern. Every detail, from the copper hull entrance to the underwater-inspired spa, speaks volumes about meticulous craftsmanship.

The Great British menu, artfully showcasing local market ingredients, was a culinary delight that added to the overall experience.

With a staggering 359 rooms spread across 14 floors, the Sea Containers Hotel offers a diverse range of accommodations, including suites that offer breath-taking views of the Thames and the city. What's truly commendable is the hotel's commitment to accessibility, ensuring a comfortable
stay for all guests.

The hotel's spa is nothing short of a haven of relaxation, offering rejuvenating treatments and a wellness area where one can unwind with lemon tea and comfortable loungers. For cinephiles, the hotel's cinema boasts a luxurious screening room, the perfect setting for catching the latest film releases.

We dined at the Sea Containers Restaurant on our first night and were thoroughly spoiled by a starter of beef carpaccio the likes of which I've rarely tasted, along with freshly made crab-cakes. 

The lounge area of our suite

This was followed by a Pork Tomahawk sharing steak that was more like a roast dinner joint, served with an incredible apple jus and delicious hand-cut fries. Homemade ice cream and a gorgeously indulgent apple crumble finished off an incredible meal on the bank of the Thames.

The trendy Lyaness bar serves up delightful cocktails and snacks, adding to the overall allure. Additionally, the hotel's strategic location provides easy access to public transport, making exploring nearby attractions such as Borough Market, the Globe, The National Theatre, and the London Eye an absolute breeze.

But the true essence of Sea Containers Hotel lies in the extraordinary hospitality. Monica Grybauskaite, the new manager, ensured that every detail of our stay was impeccable. Her warm and gracious demeanour made us feel like welcomed friends. Chef Terrance Barrow, amidst a bustling Saturday night, delighted our palates with his culinary creations. The flavours and presentation were nothing short of artistry on a plate. Raoof, our dedicated server, elevated the dining experience with his exceptional attentiveness and warmth, adding a personal touch to our evening. Altogether, it was a fantastic experience that left a lasting impression.

Exciting Experiences at Sea Containers London include :

Cakes & Corks: Indulge in a delightful afternoon with Sea Containers London's new Cakes & Corks menu, available from 3 PM to 5 PM every Monday and Friday. It's the perfect way to treat yourself during your stay.

Self Space Retreat: Explore the Buoyancy Retreat in collaboration with Self Space at Sea Containers London. Find rejuvenation and relaxation through this unique experience.

Sumptuous pork Tomahawk steak

Our second stop on this London adventure led us to the One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel, a well designed gem nestled in the heart of Shoreditch. Designed by Lore group’s Jacu Strauss what makes this hotel truly fascinating is the story behind its creation. One Hundred Shoreditch is the work of visionary hotel design guru Strauss known for his commitment to creating unique and immersive experiences for travellers. His passion for art, culture, and design is evident in every aspect of the hotel.

From the very moment we arrived, the staff, with special mention to the delightful Babs, welcomed us with open arms, offering invaluable recommendations for nearby dining and exploration.

Spitalfields Market and the vibrant Boxpark Shoreditch were mere steps away, providing ample opportunities for shopping and dining. I mustn't forget to mention the sensational bagels at the 24-hour bagel shops on Brick Lane—an absolute must-try culinary delight.

Our room at One Hundred Shoreditch was a sanctuary of comfort and style, boasting a plush bed, ample space, and captivating décor, all while offering views of the bustling Shoreditch streets below. The cheerful assistance of Shane and Michell upon our arrival and Ryan on departure added a personal touch to our stay. The welcome was compounded by the incredible hospitality and kindness shown by the rooftop manager, Ezren - a manager at the very peak of his game and embodying everything good about the hospitality industry. The staff here are just off the scale, brilliant and a pleasure to spend time with.

In the Seed Library restaurant, we had the pleasure of encountering Matt, a remarkable cocktail maestro. We indulged in an array of cocktails, and the infusions were unbelievably diverse and delicious, perfectly complemented by some of the finest dumplings I've ever had the pleasure of
tasting. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening where I felt I had actually learned more about cocktail making in one session than I had in a lifetime.

As our two-centre journey through London unfolded, the opulence of Sea Containers Hotel and the warm hospitality of One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel left us with unforgettable memories. London's enchanting charm, paired with these exceptional accommodations, made for a truly remarkable getaway. These hotels offer an authentic London experience without the over-the-top extravagance, making them the perfect choice for travellers seeking luxury and genuine hospitality.

In a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, our stay at the Lore Group’s Sea Containers Hotel and One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel added an extra layer of magic to our pre Christmas trip.

Cocktails from the Seed library

Stunning views from the rooftop

The Salmon Royale topped with caviar! 

Exciting Experiences at One Hundred Shoreditch:

Christmas Day in the Lobby Bar: Celebrate Christmas Day in style at the Lobby Bar. Indulge in festive delights and raise a toast to the season with friends and family.

Lobby Bar Festive Happy Hour: Enjoy festive cocktails like Espresso Martini, Mulled Wine, and Margaritas (all paired with a mince pie) for just £9 during the Lobby Bar Festive Happy Hour - available Monday to Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

New Year's Eve Rooftop Party: As the year comes to a close, join in the celebration at the New Year's Eve Rooftop Party. Here you can expect an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and ringing in the new year in style with stunning rooftop views.