Everything about London’s Belgravia neighborhood evokes the sophisticated nature of the fictional character, Elizabeth James, played by Natasha Richardson in the nostalgic ’90s film The Parent Trap. As you peruse the streets, Georgian architecture reveals itself in the form of gleaming white-stuccoed homes with grand terraces overlooking the bustling streets below. In the heart of this refined hamlet, however, stands a cosmopolitan boutique hotel that beautifully juxtaposes its environs with contemporary design.
Amidst this charming enclave, you’ll find The Hari London, an 85-key modern luxury hotel lauded for its sustainability practices and stylish, home-away-from-home atmosphere. Its striking exterior catches the eye at first glance, with a glass-box façade containing the guestrooms perched atop neighboring rooftops. As you walk past the entryway, the friendly doormen greet you and quickly take your coat and bag. Then, you pass through the spacious yet homey lobby on your way to check-in.
Upstairs, the library lounge feels like a chic living room—an inviting space to relax, mingle, or even pull out your laptop and work for the afternoon. Guests often sip coffee or tea in one of the cozy seating corners. Illustrative artworks grace the menus and wooden keycard holders, giving the space a playful yet refined touch.
Moving up the lift, you transition from the moody, mirror-lined hallways to airy, inviting accommodations. Natural oak wood floors complement a neutral palette from the entryway to the bedroom. A plush reading nook, swathed in a velvet golden-brown hue, invites you to curl up with a good book while taking in the stately streets of Belgravia below.
For those needing to work, a desk is thoughtfully carved into the room. However, you might find yourself distracted by Wallpaper and Monocle magazines calling your name from the coffee table. Comfortable king-sized beds provide a peaceful slumber. By night, the turn-down service readies your slippers, draws the blackout blinds, and dims the renewable energy light system, making it easy to slip into the sheets.
Aside from the room, you won’t miss its white marble bathroom, where a picturesque, window-framed tub takes center stage. Luxurious Jo Loves bath and body products in their signature Pomelo fragrance elevate the grooming experience. Ethically sourced toiletry kits by ADA Cosmetics, along with bamboo tissue from Bumboo, provide a sense of well-being. These sustainable touches enhance your self-care travel routine.
On the ground floor, il Pampero—an Italian gem—greets you with street-facing windows that let light spill in. Interiorly, rich Castleton green-painted wood planks envelop the space, as bespoke paintings and a famous Henri Cartier-Bresson photograph adorn the main dining area.
Regarding the food, the all-day eatery shares a delightful English-style breakfast menu with omelets, pancakes, porridge, and beans on toast, just like the Brits do. Sticking to its UK roots, Afternoon Tea is served from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a lovely selection of herbal, green, black, and white brews paired with Italian-inspired sweet and savory treats (think mini doughnuts with pistachio cream and truffle arancini).
Dinner brings La Dolce Vita hour to life, with a tempting array of à la carte options—from grilled octopus and artichokes with olive oil and parmesan to Branzino fillet and homemade pastas. (The Orechiette with garlic, chili, rapini cream, and spicy crumbs was a standout—if only my stomach was bigger, I’d have tried them all!)
And, of course, no stay would be complete without a visit to the romantic Garden Terrace, a true highlight of the hotel. Surrounded by lush ivy walls, beautiful flowers, and a retractable roof, the mezzanine-level patio lets guests sip cocktails under the sun or stars. Signature libations, like the Clover Club made with gin, lemon, raspberries, and foam, or a drink from ‘The Hartini Collection’ utilizing The Hari Gin, perfectly complement the experience.
From the stylish design to the impeccable service, The Hari London ensures every moment feels special, making it the ideal retreat in one of London’s most elegant neighborhoods.
Top Takeaways
Location: London, England
Rating: 5-Star
The vibe: The Hari London: A contemporary boutique hotel that provides a cozy, home-away-from-home experience. (It was so homey, I wanted to move in!)
Our favorite thing about the hotel: It’s hard to pick just one, but what stands out is how both comfortable and elevated everything felt. The rooms exude top-tier style, making you feel right at home.
Food + Drink: From a hearty English-style breakfast and traditional Afternoon Tea to an Italian-inspired dinner menu at il Pampero, The Hari London offers a delicious blend of local and international flavors, all complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and a carefully curated selection of wines.
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness center, Spa treatments, Bike rentals, 24-hour front desk, In-room tea/coffee makers, Laundry service, Umbrellas for rainy days
What’s nearby? Belgravia; Hyde Park; Harrod’s; Buckingham Palace; Kensington; Knightsbridge
Any personal neighborhood recommendations? Take a jaunt around Belgravia and stumble upon charming cafes, traditional pubs like Thomas Cubitt on Elizabeth Street, and unique boutiques offering everything from designer finds to quirky keepsakes.
Rooms: 85 rooms, including 14 luxury suites
Pricing: Rates start at $490 per night.
Closest Airport: London Heathrow International Airport
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