By: ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
A charmer of a hotel in the Capital of Cool is an address worth knowing.
If, on the off chance, you find yourself walking up and down the sumptuous and winding staircase of Chelsea Townhouse Hotel, located in one of London’s elite neighborhoods, instead of taking a minuscule and quite wobbly elevator that services the four-story hotel, you are in for a treat. The hallways are lined with exquisite antique furniture, beautifully framed art, and impressive chandeliers and sconces one may find at the home of a distinguished tastemaker or a passionate antiquarian. A hospitality experience at its finest, the hotel’s discrete and sophisticated nature revealed at every turn blurs the line between upscale boarding and aspirational dwelling. With its unique charm, elegant touches, and impeccable service, this 19th-century, 36-room boutique hotel has become a favorite gem among discerning travelers seeking a refined “home away from home” experience.
Part of the Iconic Luxury Hotels group, Chelsea Townhouse Hotel, along with its sister property 11 Cadogan Gardens located just around the corner, is surrounded by a vibrant cultural and culinary scene of Cadogan Gardens, home to renowned art galleries, exclusive boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants. A host of cultural attractions are within walking distance, too including The Saatchi Gallery, Royal Court Theatre, the V&A, and The Natural History Museum.
The area’s vast property portfolio has been under the ownership of the Cadogan family for over 300 years with the story beginning in the 18th century when Sir Hans Sloane, a physician and naturalist, acquired the land. Over time, the estate was developed into the sophisticated enclave it is today, reflecting the evolution of London’s architecture, style, and horticultural prowess. These days Cadogan Gardens is a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary architecture enveloped by lush greenery and meticulously landscaped gardens. The surrounding edifices, many of which are Georgian and Victorian, boast timeless facades that seamlessly merge with modern interior designs, as is the case with the hotel. Architect Gary Kellett oversaw the restoration of the hotel’s original architecture, which remains largely unchanged.
The area’s vast property portfolio has been under the ownership of the Cadogan family for over 300 years with the story beginning in the 18th century when Sir Hans Sloane, a physician and naturalist, acquired the land. Over time, the estate was developed into the sophisticated enclave it is today, reflecting the evolution of London’s architecture, style, and horticultural prowess. These days Cadogan Gardens is a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary architecture enveloped by lush greenery and meticulously landscaped gardens. The surrounding edifices, many of which are Georgian and Victorian, boast timeless facades that seamlessly merge with modern interior designs, as is the case with the hotel. Architect Gary Kellett oversaw the restoration of the hotel’s original architecture, which remains largely unchanged.
On the ground floor, the dining room offers a daily communal breakfast buffet laden with homemade nutty granola, artisan yogurts, seasonal berries, stewed compotes, pastries, and homemade jams as well as a smart lunch and dinner menu of continental dishes and bites. For an elevated experience, guests are encouraged to make use of the facilities at 11 Cadogan Gardens, including its private gym, the use of a personal trainer, and a stunning library. The Chelsea Bar on the first floor is unashamedly moody and seductive, with a dramatic color palette of gold and charcoal. It is a theatrical setting for some of the finest cocktails Chelsea has to offer. Finally, Hans’ Bar & Grill offers an oasis of gastronomy rooted in British produce underpinned by its head chef, Antonio Aniello’s classical cookery skills. Pumpkin gnocchi in parmesan cream, with pumpkin seeds and micro basil, and Fish and Chips served with minted crushed peas, triple-cooked chips, and tartare sauce is a reason alone to book your flight to London.
Rumor has it Queen of Denmark, Gary Oldman, and Pierce Brosnan have all stayed here… but do you really need a celebrity endorsement to know a good thing when you see one?
