11 Cadogan Gardens
"How did it strike you on arrival?You may get lost finding 11 Cadogan Gardens—even my taxi driver did. It’s hidden off a residential square in Chelsea, just north of Sloane Square, and is one of the last places you’d expect to find a hotel. It’s fairly hidden amid the red-brick terraced townhouses. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The crowd is well-heeled and slightly older—some repeat guests have been coming for years. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.I’ve stayed twice, with a renovation in between. There used to be a zany feel to all of the rooms and décor, which the refurb has largely done away with, but although I was concerned it might have drained the life out of the place, I loved the superior (one up from entry-level) room I stayed in. The look is boutique chic with a hint of English countryside—think floral curtains and elaborately carved mirror frames. The superior rooms aren’t enormous but feel cozy rather than tight. Certain suites and higher level rooms still have their original, outré décor, like the “Red Room,” which is more old-school aristocrat than Fifty Shades." We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The Hypnos beds are high, plush, and squashy—I slept beautifully. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Turndown includes lip balm, pillow mist and a mini Chelsea bun, just in case you'd forgotten your location and needed a sticky treat. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Good water pressure, plush towels and robes, and toiletries by Mayfair parfumier Ormonde Jayne. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free and super-fast Wi-Fi (100MB). Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?Concierge William is a delight—extremely knowledgeable, passionate about the hotel and the area, and wonderfully chatty. I talked to him for ages, and never had a sense that I was in the way. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.A new restaurant is planned for 2018. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?William the concierge—seriously the highlight of the hotel. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Low-key luxury with personal service." - Julia Buckley
