Assessment: The Cumberland, Marble Arch, London, UK

The Cumberland regained its outdated title in Might, having spent plenty of years because the Arduous Rock Lodge London. However, regardless of the title change, the musical associations of the 900-room lodge, which was the final official residence of Jimi Hendrix and residential to the unique Arduous Rock Cafe, nonetheless stay. In reality, musical references abound, from the lodge’s brand (a ‘C’ set towards the form of a guitar pluck) to the “It’s Oh So Quiet” do-not-disturb indicators (a nod to a tune by Betty Hutton, and later Björk).

The lodge is owned by Clermont Lodge Group, stated to the most important owner-operator in London by room rely. The group was previously referred to as GLH Accommodations and as Guoman earlier than that.

The welcome

I arrived on the lodge at round 8am – far too early for check-in, however in order that I may drop off my baggage and go about my day with out taking it with me in every single place. The concierge employees had been very accommodating, offering me with a ticket in order that I may re-claim my saved baggage on my return.

That night, re-united with my baggage, I went to check-in. I used to be staying in a Star Suite and, as soon as reception had established this, instantly led to a second ‘hidden’ and extra intimate reception behind closed doorways, and invited to sit down with a glass of Champagne. This personal ‘Backstage’ lounge was an sudden perk, comes with limitless refreshments and snacks, and is on the market to company staying in government rooms and suites.

The room

I used to be proven to my Star Suite (Room 8005) by Angelica, who kindly helped with my baggage. I’d usually have been glad to hold it myself however, with an unexpectected glass of Champagne, some paperwork and my room keys in hand, that had all of a sudden grow to be a bit tougher.

The suite spans 45 sq. metres and comes with a super-comfortable King dimension Hypnos mattress. It might in reality sleep as much as 4 individuals because the couch within the lounge can double up as a settee mattress.

It have to be over 30 years – perhaps nearly 40 – since I’ve truly performed a vinyl document, however within the room is a Crosley turntable and a field stuffed with vinyl, containing every part from Blur’s Park Life to Black Stone Cherry dwell from The Royal Albert Corridor, in addition to a Fender guitar and Marshall amplifier.

“Welcome, Paul!” is written on a mirror that doubles as a top chart, with markings starting from Snoop-Dogg (6’4″) to Ariana Grande (5’0″). At 6’0″, I share the identical top as George Michael and Stevie Marvel. The partitions are additionally adorned with footage of Amy Winehouse and Bryan Might.

Room facilities embrace bathtub robes and slippers, a complimentary minibar that’s re-stocked as much as thrice per day, a Nespresso machine, a separate lounge space, and all the opposite modcons you would possibly count on.

On drawing again the curtains, I uncover I’ve a powerful view of the London Eye.

The lavatory

The lavatory is ethereal and light-weight, with ground to ceiling tiles, and a separate bathtub and rainfall bathe.

Essentiel Parts toiletries are offered – a Gilchrist & Soames model that comprises high-grade important oils, with no artificial fragrances or dyes, creating merchandise that nourish the physique whereas awakening the senses.

The services

One of many issues that strikes you concerning the lodge on the arrival is the large lobby space. On the time of my go to, the centre of this was occupied by a London cab, offering company with a enjoyable photograph alternative; however to the left is a big space taken up by the SOUND Café, billed as ‘3 venues in a single’ because it serves as a sports activities bar, dwell music venue and a café serving foods and drinks.

The eating could be very casual – I took a spot on the bar the place it was a bit bit brighter for taking images. Pictured is the salt and pepper calamari, deep-fried and served with a chive and garlic mayonnaise.

My primary was a main New York strip steak, topped with a herb butter and spicy shrimp, and served with triple-cooked chips, grilled mushroom and tomato, together with a Caesar aspect salad. I requested for the steak ‘very uncommon’ and it was cooked completely.

Downstairs within the basement is ‘The Inexperienced Room’ the place a buffet breakfast is served every morning, and there’s an additionally an omelette station if you happen to’d favor one thing made to order.

The situation

Conveniently located at a crossroads within the coronary heart of London’s bustling West Finish, The Cumberland is simply moments away from town’s iconic Marble Arch, typically thought-about the gateway to London’s tradition, commerce and leisure. Simply yards from Marble Arch Underground station on the Central Line and with Hyde Park and Oxford Road’s world-renowned buying each solely a leisurely stroll away (it’s solely 5 minutes to Selfridges), the lodge is fantastically positioned.

Different good touches

The Cumberland sorted me exceptionally properly. In my room was a bottle of fizz, a plate of recent fruit and a few complimentary sweets. 

The fee

Double and twin rooms begin from £199 per evening.
Star Suites begin from £455 per evening.

The perfect bit

The exclusivity of the check-in was very sudden. It gave a beautiful first impression, and the backstage lounge served as a peaceable oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the primary lobby.

The ultimate verdict

Seamlessly combining fashionable sophistication with traditional class, my keep at The Cumberland was a completely satisfying one. The lodge’s fashionable decor, spacious Star suites and attentive service create a welcoming ambiance for company within the coronary heart of town.

Dislcosure: Our keep was sponsored by The Cumberland.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxurious Journey Weblog and has labored within the journey trade for greater than 30 years. He’s Winner of the Improvements in Journey ‘Finest Journey Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. Along with different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of many world’s greatest journey blogs” and “greatest for luxurious” by The Each day Telegraph.