Experience the heart of London at the Soho Hotel

If you’ve got 24 hours to spend in the capital, this is where it’s at

(Image credit: Simon Brown)

If you’ve got 24 hours to spend in the capital, this is where it’s at

Why go?

Because there’s no place better to experience all London has to offer than in the heart of it, Soho. The aptly named named Soho Hotel is the perfect embodiment of the area’s quirky yet refined vibe.

The location

While we love to explore London’s less touristy areas, if you’ve only got 24 hours in the capital, Soho is where the entertainment is at. From the best department stores and independent shops to the most vibrant bars and restaurants, there’s always something to see and do in the area.

The room We stayed in the one bedroom Soho suite, but to be honest, you won’t be disappointed with any of the 91 rooms, as they’re all individually decorated in an exquisite eclectic style by design director and owner Kitty Kemp.

The lounge area mixed Aztec prints with more traditional patterns, in shades of deeps blues, reds and terracotta, creating a cosy and charming feel. While the massive King size bed won our vote, the main attraction was no doube the marble bathroom with a standalone bath, TV and walk-in shower bigger than our flat. Bliss.

The food The hotel’s in-house bar and restaurant, Refuel, boasts an extensive menu offering anything from Dorset crab linguine and buttermilk and brioche chicken schnitzel to superfood salad and Asian broth. Though we didn’t eat there this time, we can vouch for their High Breakfast, a cross between afternoon tea and brunch.

(Image credit: SimonBrown)

The vibe

The hotel is very much a chic take on bohemian style, without the pretentious factor. Walking its corridors, you’ll find anyone from film directors to business people and in-the-know tourists on a city break. You might even spot the odd celebrity.

The spa

If you fancy a bit of pampering, there are plenty of treatments to choose from at Soholistic, from facials to manicures and body scrubs, all using devine Temple Spa products. If exercising is more up your street, there is a swanky gym too.

Don’t miss

If you can drag yourself away from the shops, do chill out in the guest areas. We love the cosy library and drawing rooms, and there’s even a private cinema room you can hire, if you’re feeling lavish.

While you’re there…

It would be rude to stay in central London and NOT go shopping, especially as Oxford Street is just a stone’s throw away. As well as the usual high street stores, a visit to Liberty and Selfridges is a must. To round off the day, why not catch a show too?

Book now: Prices start at £390 per night including VAT, room only. Book here

Penny Goldstone

Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.

She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.