Understandably, it can be a little overwhelming when searching for the perfect hotel stay in a city like London. More often than not, people can spend hours on end researching through countless websites, in search of a perfect stay.
A bit of background
Andaz London provides the best location, comfort and historic charm. Plus, the added extras when considering facilities and things to do in the local area.
In 1884, Andaz first opened as the Great Eastern Hotel; Designed by the architects of London’s famed Houses of Parliament, as a London original railway hotel. The Great Eastern enjoyed the privilege of its own track inside the station for daily provisions delivery, including seawater for the hotel’s saltwater baths and is where vampire hunter Van Helsing stayed when visiting London in Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Located in the heart of vibrant East London and adjacent to Liverpool Street station, this spectacular Grade II-listed Victorian red brick building now hosts a multifaceted network of busy bars, restaurants and rooms. Around the hotel, you can explore the creative and cultured street art, check out the up-and-coming designer boutiques or visit some of the independent art galleries. The eye-catching Shoreditch spots of Old Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane and Columbia Road can easily be seen, all within walking distance from the hotel. Furthermore, you can hang out at the 500-year-old Leadenhall Market or chill out at St Dunstan in the East; a ruined church that’s now a pleasing city park.
The Andaz vibe
Meaning ‘personal style’ in Hindi, Andaz is a luxury lifestyle brand woven into the fabric of the local culture. Guests can expect indigenous experiences, inside a space where you can express your own unique style and passions. This is evident throughout the building, with artwork and furnishings that acknowledge the hotel’s colourful history.
The original features of this grand hotel have been retained throughout; from marble staircases, mosaic floor tiling and corniced ceilings, to quirky pieces of the original rail tracks. Most particularly, the preserved original stained glass dome feature in the 1901 ballroom, radiates a very strong sense of its grandeur and history. Having survived the bombings during World War I & II – mattresses from the rooms were thrown over the dome to protect it.
Upon arrival, I was greeted with a glass of bubbles – which made all the difference whilst waiting to check-in. The lobby area homes a juniper green feature wall of inspiring modern art; covering industrial, graphic, fashion and architectural design. With a tall open-plan staircase built into the ceiling, the lobby creates an essence of space, through the flood of light projecting down into the room.
Useful to note, the lobby area is stocked with complimentary wine and snacks. With their dedicated ‘wine hour’ (6 pm-7 pm), you can enjoy a glass of complimentary wine every day! This simple gesture from the hotel creates a favourite daily moment, at your full convenience.
The Room
I was staying in one of the King Bed Deluxe rooms, where the space captures everything about the hotel’s location, history and heritage. Large Victorian sash windows enable a top view for watching the city slickers rush by, whilst you relax in the comforts of your soundproofed room. The walls and long curtains are finished in a décor of grey, white and black tones; with dashes of burgundy and burnt orange displayed amongst the features, to counteract this cosy production. The thick and bouncy pinstriped carpets are a nod to the pinstriped suits of nearby city workers and the area’s sartorial past. Portraits and photography by local artists Sophie Mo and Martin Usbourne, bring the streets of the area inside, representing the heritage of the neighbourhood and of the hotel.
The bathroom is a respectable size, with pristine white tiles and sophisticated black taps. The bathtub is large and separate from the shower, with fresh fluffy cotton towels and robes at the ready. Amenities include a sizeable plasma TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a free minibar. Overall, the room provides both a feeling of the traditionally conservative city, with the ever-evolving artistic vibe of East London.
It was time to explore the rest of the hotel before heading down to dinner.
Dinner at Eastway Brasserie
There are five different restaurants to choose from at Andaz London, including; Rake’s Café bar, Lady Abercorn’s pub and kitchen, Miyako, Eastway Brasserie and 1901. For my stay, I chose to dine at the Eastway Brasserie, simply because the menu offered the most variety. As it was an extremely hot day in London, it was delightful to receive a frozen passion fruit daiquiri upon entry, helping to quench my thirst. The dining area is spacious, contemporary and clean. Despite being in the heart of London’s business district, the set-up is surprisingly relaxing. The menu is full of reinterpreted classic brasserie favourites, essentially offering burgers, grills, salads and some vegetarian dishes.
I had crispy calamari to start, followed by Dedham Vale ribeye steak, and concluded with the vanilla, raspberry and mango-baked Alaska, which was simply heavenly. The Sauska Cabernet Franc was quite the angelic host amongst the red wine world and it paired perfectly with my steak.
Discovering the rest of Andaz London
With dinner accomplished, I wanted to take some time to check out the rest of the hotel. There is a stunning Greek Masonic Temple which has Grade II listed marbles, that were built in 1912. This charming chamber is guarded by heavy studded doors and is known as one of the most flamboyant Masonic temples in London. This windowless opulent room is neoclassic in style, with bronze candelabras on claw feet sitting on top of 12 different types of international marble.
The 1901 ballroom is also Grade II listed and radiates a powerful sense of the hotel’s grandeur and history. The originally preserved stained glass dome which impressively survived both World War I & II accommodates a dramatic visual backdrop for any event hosted in this hire room.
There is a newly renovated health club, with all of the latest gym equipment. You can even request a walking or jogging tour with one of the trainers. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more relaxing, then you can hop into the steam room before retreating back to your room.
In a nutshell
Andaz London is a great spot when looking to connect with places and stories. If you fancy discovering a different side to the city, then checking out the local neighbourhood is a must.
The best thing about Andaz London is that it ticks a box for a little bit of everything, whilst transcending you through a very inspirational stay. You can truly arrive as a visitor and depart a local at Andaz London.
To discover more, visit: hyatt.com
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All imagery courtesy of Hyatt Hotels.