A Luxurious 2-day Retreat in the Heart of East London
Index Digital Publisher Stephen Gurney takes in the delightful city sights on a trip to its trendy areas.
No matter where you are situated in Kent or Sussex, it will only take you just over an hour by train to reach the trendy streets of Whitechapel, Shoreditch and Spitalfields market.
The base for my trip here with Nicola was Hotel Saint which is handily right next door to Aldgate underground station. The hotel boasts a selection of beautifully-appointed rooms and suites, each designed with meticulous attention to detail.
The views from our city-facing room were incredible – especially as day turns to night, overlooking the Church of St Botolph, The Gherkin, Sky Garden, bustling Fenchurch Street, Tower Bridge and much, much more. We could have spent days just admiring the view alone in our fabulous room.
We managed, however, to tear ourselves away with the lure of a table for dinner at the Crispin Restaurant, the hotel's nearby culinary gem, which offers a delightful journey through the flavours of both modern and traditional European cuisine. The menu is a testament to the chef's dedication to using fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in dishes that are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavour. The attention to detail in every dish is exceptional, and the presentation is nothing short of artistry.
This whole area is great for foodies as every street you walk down has a plethora of great-looking international restaurants and cafes.
We finished the evening with a few sneaky cocktails at Hotel Saints very own famous Jin Bow Law Sky Bar over looking the incredible Square Mile night time skyline to great sounds from their inhouse DJ
Local Sights
The Hotel Saints’ location is a prime advantage for travellers eager to explore the best of London. Situated in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions. A short stroll will lead you to the historic Tower of London, where you can delve into centuries of history and marvel at the Crown Jewels and the nearby Thames River provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and boat rides.
For art enthusiasts, the Tate Modern and the National Gallery are within easy reach, highlighting an impressive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists. Then there’s the vibrant Borough Market, a food lover's paradise, which is also a stone's throw away, offering a diverse array of culinary delights.
We walked to Spitalfields market to take in all the sights and sounds and downstairs Brick Lane vintage market that has boutique stalls selling clothes from the 1920s to modern day.
This is Jack the Rippers old stomping ground, so a nearby night tour is recommended or a visit to the Jack the Ripper Museum for some ghoulish activity!
Additionally, the Hotel Saint's proximity to the financial district makes it a convenient choice for business travellers, providing easy access to corporate offices and meeting venues.
In summary, The Hotel Saint in London, coupled with the Crispin Restaurant, offers an exceptional experience for travellers seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. Attention to detail in both accommodation and dining is evident, ensuring a memorable stay. With its prime location and access to some of London's most iconic sights, it serves as an ideal base for exploring this dynamic city.
Whether for business or leisure, The Hotel Saint stands as a testament to refined hospitality and is sure to leave a lasting impression on any discerning traveller.
• Hotel Saint: Prices £200-£550 per night with some special offers online at https://www.hotelsaint.com
• The Crispin: Prices from £25 per person, visit https://www.crispinlondon.com/
There is so much to see and do on a quick two-day sojourn to London, but here are my top recommendations:
- Coffee/lunch in Borough Market by London Bridge Station. Visit https://boroughmarket.org.uk/
- Walk from London Bridge along the Thames south bank, cross Tower Bridge and go past the Tower of London to The Hotel Saint.
- Visit Jack the Ripper Museum or take a tour, visit https://www.jacktherippermuseum.com/
- Walk around the city of London and the incredible buildings early in the morning.
- Stroll around Whitechapel and Shoreditch’s trendy areas and the myriad of great restaurants, offering a buzzy vibe and fascinating buildings.
- Spitalfields Market, 10-15 mins walk, visit https://www.spitalfields.co.uk/
- Brick Lane Vintage Market, 15 mins walk, visit http://vintage-market.co.uk/
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