The Pelham Hotel has been attracting tourists and locals alike ever since it opened its doors in 1989, on the site of three large white-stucco-fronted Victorian townhouses, a few steps from South Kensington tube station. I, personally, have been a regular since I could order a G&T without being asked to show my ID.
From the first time, I fell in love with its twisty corridors, creaking floorboards, heavy-draped windows and easy mood, most of which is due to the skill of Kit Kemp, responsible for designing its interiors back in the 1980s. But I had never stayed overnight (I am a Londoner), a mistake I remedied a few weeks ago.
The check-in process was quick and easy, so in no time, I was in my room, a Junior Suite overlooking Harrington Gardens. Spacious and comfortable, the scene is set with an eclectic mix of period country house furniture and warm lighting from elegant silk lampshades. The bathroom features underfloor heating and neutral marble throughout. The large bathtub caught my eye as did the amenities, by British luxury perfumiers, Penhaligon’s. Time to indulge in a long soak with a glass of chilled white and the book I had been meaning to finish for over a week.
The Pelham London – Starhotels Collezione: Junior Suite
I asked a friend to join me at the hotel to catch up over the quintessentially English tradition of afternoon tea, served at The Drawing Room, a beautiful, light space with large windows, wood panelling and plush furniture, completed with an enchanting fireplace.
She hadn’t seen the Diva exhibition at the V&A , so I had previously secured tickets to surprise her since the museum is a very short walk from the hotel (The Pelham is very close to many London attractions), to be wowed by the power and creative of the iconic performers featured in this show.
My two favourite spaces at The Pelham London: The Drawing Room and The Library.
We got back as the grandfather clock in the lobby stroke six, and the drinks trolley was rolling into The Sitting Room, where one positively feels as if in their own country manor, down to the ancient aristocratic portraits, the roaring fire and plush red velour sofa where we set camp.
After a couple of G&Ts, it was clear to us that our intentions to go out for dinner had dissipated, so we opted to eat at La Trattoria, by Michelin-starred chef Alfredo Russo, on the lower ground floor. Jazz-club inspired paintings by Anna Mazzotta and striped fabric line the walls, a combination that gives the place a sort of carefree cabaret mood, but with a full-on Italian menu.
La Trattoria, by Michelin-starred Italian chef Alfredo Russo. Every other Thursday, it turns into Il Mercato, an Italian food festival in the form of a rich buffet served by Chef Roberto Roncolato.
I felt a bit sorry for my friend, who had to go all the way home (although only a little as she lives in the same postcode than The Pelham) while all I had to do was take the lift to my room and climb into my king size bed for one of the best nights of sleep I remember having in a long time. I am logging in this place as my home away from home; or maybe as my office; or both, why not?
THE PELHAM (Starhotels Collezione)
15 Cromwell Place. South Kensington. London, SW7 2LA
Tel. +44 (0) 20 7589 8288
thepelham@starhotels.com reservations.thepelham@starhotels.com
Words: Lina Ress
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