Just a stone’s throw from the best of London’s bustling South Bank sits this 5-star gem – the Hilton Bankside. Whether you’re on business or a culture vulture checking out Shakespeare’s Globe, Hilton Bankside has got something for everyone.
Stepping through the revolving doors into the buzzy reception area, we were greeted with a neon sign proudly stating ‘It’s time to feel good’. And it certainly was. Friendly staff, a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival plus a help-yourself sweet shop made for a very warm welcome indeed. And I’d happily spend the rest of my days surrounded by the signature scent being pumped out into the lobby.
Contemporary design throughout presents an urban hipster vibe but without the try hard. Natural wood, metro tiles and luxe leather combined with subtle lighting add warmth to the industrial grittiness.
Up and out of the lift and it would be remiss of me not to mention the corridors. Light and airy with floor to ceiling windows which, on our floor, overlooked the rooftop herb garden and bee hives.
Into the spacious bedroom and we were met with muted tones, more subtle lighting and some great touches like USB panels and mini reading lights by the bed. But the star of the show had to be some of the comfiest pillows this traveller has ever laid her head on. I don’t know much about feng shui but the room, surrounded by a quiet ambience, made for an incredible night’s sleep. And we didn’t even take advantage of the turn down service.
The bathroom featured a large walk-in shower, all the mirrors you could possibly need and delicious smelling Crabtree and Evelyn products. The room also included all those touches you’d expect from a luxury hotel like bottled water, slippers and fluffy dressing gowns.
Heading down to dinner in the Oxbo, it straight away felt more like a destination restaurant than a hotel dining area. All distressed wood, parquet floor and leather banquettes under the watchful gaze of quirky paper taxidermy animal heads.
After another friendly but unobtrusive welcome we chose from a small but perfectly formed menu. To start, asparagus with smoky chickpea and mint crisps and fresh spring vegetables accompanied by a bright yellow egg. A perfectly cooked steak followed with a delightfully light peppercorn sauce. However, top marks must go to the tender and flavoursome salt marsh lamb. Absolute perfection. We rounded things off with a fluffy blackcurrent bavarois and a light crème brûlée. Stomachs well and truly satisfied we didn’t make it to the Distillery Bar for after dinner cocktails but instead took a stroll down the Thames to walk off the decadence.
Back in the Oxbo for breakfast, we were greeted with an impressive range of items to start the day. A continental buffet with all the usual suspects but a special mention must go to the nut selection. Truly a thing to behold! We then helped ourselves to the traditional full English alongside the open kitchen serving omelettes, pancakes and eggs cooked to your liking.
What with all the consumption, we didn’t have time to plunge into the inviting 17m pool. Or work out in the gym, kitted out with a great selection of cardio and weight equipment. But on leaving this clean and slick hotel, with a large slice of warmth, this luxe traveller will definitely be back. Book your room at Hilton Bankside here, or click here to read more of Luxe Bible’s London hotel reviews.
