Overview: The Cumberland, Marble Arch, London, UK

The Cumberland regained its previous title in Could, having spent quite a lot of years because the Laborious Rock Resort 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 Laborious Rock Cafe, nonetheless stay. In truth, musical references abound, from the lodge’s brand (a ‘C’ set in opposition to the form of a guitar pluck) to the “It’s Oh So Quiet” do-not-disturb indicators (a nod to a music by Betty Hutton, and later Björk).

The lodge is owned by Clermont Resort Group, mentioned to the most important owner-operator in London by room rely. The group was previously often called GLH Inns 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 might drop off my baggage and go about my day with out taking it with me in all places. The concierge workers had been very accommodating, offering me with a ticket in order that I might 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 with a glass of Champagne. This non-public ‘Backstage’ lounge was an sudden perk, comes with limitless refreshments and snacks, and is offered to friends 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 might usually have been comfortable to hold it myself however, with an unexpectected glass of Champagne, some paperwork and my room keys in hand, that had immediately turn out to be a bit of more difficult.

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

It should be over 30 years – possibly nearly 40 – since I’ve really performed a vinyl document, however within the room is a Crosley turntable and a field stuffed with vinyl, containing the whole lot from Blur’s Park Life to Black Stone Cherry stay 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 Could.

Room facilities embody tub 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 anticipate.

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

The lavatory

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

Essentiel Parts toiletries are supplied – a Gilchrist & Soames model that accommodates 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 in regards to the lodge on the arrival is the big lobby space. On the time of my go to, the centre of this was occupied by a London cab, offering friends 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, stay music venue and a café serving food and drinks.

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

My foremost was a chief 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 when you’d desire one thing made to order.

The placement

Conveniently located at a crossroads within the coronary heart of London’s bustling West Finish, The Cumberland is simply moments away from the 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 Avenue’s world-renowned procuring each solely a leisurely stroll away (it’s solely 5 minutes to Selfridges), the lodge is fantastically positioned.

Different good touches

The Cumberland taken care of me exceptionally properly. In my room was a bottle of fizz, a plate of contemporary fruit and a few complimentary goodies. 

The price

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

The very best bit

The exclusivity of the check-in was very sudden. It gave an exquisite 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 trendy sophistication with traditional magnificence, my keep at The Cumberland was a totally pleasing one. The lodge’s fashionable decor, spacious Star suites and attentive service create a welcoming ambiance for friends within the coronary heart of the 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 business 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 finest journey blogs” and “finest for luxurious” by The Each day Telegraph.