SLEEPING MATTERS
It’s a spacious and relaxing room with a view of London close to Westminster Abbey. The large bathroom features a walk-in rain shower, luxury toiletries and marble flooring. My head hit the soft pillows and large bed for a comfortable night’s sleep after a long day of travelling and sightseeing.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The Pem takes inspiration from Suffragette Emily Wilding Davidson known to her family and friends by the affectionate nickname Pem. Subtle lighting and art deco design attracts a mix of tourists, travellers and couples on a romantic night out. The food is created by Michelin-starred chef Sally Abé who brings her character and reputation to the hotel’s restaurant. I went for the tasting menu which included Dressed Dorset Crab and a delicious Lemon Meringue. The excellent sommelier provided wine for each dish while telling me the history behind each glass. Alternatively, the hotel’s Blue Boar Pub offers a traditional fish and chips with mushy peas which must be one of the best in London.
NICE TOUCH
The helpful and friendly couldn’t be more attentive. The Executive lounge is an ideal place to get down to some work or just relax with a coffee.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
I headed to the West End and time travelled back to 1985 at the Adelphi for a theatre matinee showing of Back To The Future, it’s an evocative trip for fans of the film. The National Theatre offers The Motive and The Cue which tells the real-life story of Richard Burton (Johnny Flynn) and John Gielgud (Mark Gatiss) preparing for their explosive 1964 production of Hamlet. For a drink, after the show, it’s well worth a visit to The Colony Room Club which lovingly recreates the Soho drinking den inhabited by Francis Bacon.
ABOUT THE AREA
The hotel is a short walk from Westminster Abbey which has been the Coronation Church since 1066 displaying over 300 treasures. It includes the tomb of Mary Queen of Scots and England’s Elizabeth I. A crowded Poet’s Corner includes tributes to WH Auden and Lord Byron. The iconic black and white marble floor dates back to 1677. Booking is necessary.
GETTING THERE
I travelled with LNER from Edinburgh to Kings Cross. It remains one of the most scenic journeys especially the first hour looking out over the sea. The first-class menu offered a selection of vegan options. I went for the LNER cooked breakfast.
Travel information: A Twin Deluxe Room is £342 per night. A One Bedroom Suite costs £1,084 per night, the Conrad Suite costs £1904 per night.
