Overview: The Cumberland, Marble Arch, London, UK

The Cumberland regained its previous title in Might, having spent various years because the Onerous Rock Lodge London. However, regardless of the title change, the musical associations of the 900-room lodge, which was the final official residence of Jimi Hendrix and residential to the unique Onerous Rock Cafe, nonetheless stay. Actually, musical references abound, from the lodge’s brand (a ‘C’ set in opposition to the form of a guitar pluck) to the “It’s Oh So Quiet” do-not-disturb indicators (a nod to a track by Betty Hutton, and later Björk).

The lodge is owned by Clermont Lodge Group, stated to the biggest owner-operator in London by room depend. The group was previously often known as GLH Resorts and as Guoman earlier than that.

The welcome

I arrived on the lodge at round 8am – far too early for check-in, however in order that I might drop off my baggage and go about my day with out taking it with me in all places. The concierge employees have been very accommodating, offering me with a ticket in order that I might re-claim my saved baggage on my return.

That night, re-united with my baggage, I went to check-in. I used to be staying in a Star Suite and, as soon as reception had established this, instantly led to a second ‘hidden’ and extra intimate reception behind closed doorways, and invited to sit with a glass of Champagne. This personal ‘Backstage’ lounge was an sudden perk, comes with limitless refreshments and snacks, and is on the market to visitors staying in govt rooms and suites.

The room

I used to be proven to my Star Suite (Room 8005) by Angelica, who kindly helped with my baggage. I might usually have been glad to hold it myself however, with an unexpectected glass of Champagne, some paperwork and my room keys in hand, that had out of the blue develop into a bit more difficult.

The suite spans 45 sq. metres and comes with a super-comfortable King measurement Hypnos mattress. It will possibly actually sleep as much as 4 folks because the couch within the lounge can double up as a settee mattress.

It should be over 30 years – possibly nearly 40 – since I’ve truly performed a vinyl report, however within the room is a Crosley turntable and a field stuffed with vinyl, containing every little thing from Blur’s Park Life to Black Stone Cherry reside from The Royal Albert Corridor, in addition to a Fender guitar and Marshall amplifier.

“Welcome, Paul!” is written on a mirror that doubles as a peak chart, with markings starting from Snoop-Dogg (6’4″) to Ariana Grande (5’0″). At 6’0″, I share the identical peak as George Michael and Stevie Marvel. The partitions are additionally adorned with footage of Amy Winehouse and Bryan Might.

Room facilities embrace tub robes and slippers, a complimentary minibar that’s re-stocked as much as thrice per day, a Nespresso machine, a separate lounge space, and all the opposite modcons you may anticipate.

On drawing again the curtains, I uncover I’ve a formidable view of the London Eye.

The toilet

The toilet is ethereal and light-weight, with ground to ceiling tiles, and a separate tub and rainfall bathe.

Essentiel Parts toiletries are supplied – a Gilchrist & Soames model that incorporates high-grade important oils, with no artificial fragrances or dyes, creating merchandise that nourish the physique whereas awakening the senses.

The services

One of many issues that strikes you in regards to the lodge on the arrival is the big lobby space. On the time of my go to, the centre of this was occupied by a London cab, offering visitors with a enjoyable picture alternative; however to the left is a big space taken up by the SOUND Café, billed as ‘3 venues in a single’ because it serves as a sports activities bar, reside music venue and a café serving foods and drinks.

The eating may be very casual – I took a spot on the bar the place it was a bit bit brighter for taking images. Pictured is the salt and pepper calamari, deep-fried and served with a chive and garlic mayonnaise.

My predominant was a chief New York strip steak, topped with a herb butter and spicy shrimp, and served with triple-cooked chips, grilled mushroom and tomato, together with a Caesar aspect salad. I requested for the steak ‘very uncommon’ and it was cooked completely.

Downstairs within the basement is ‘The Inexperienced Room’ the place a buffet breakfast is served every morning, and there’s an additionally an omelette station in case you’d favor one thing made to order.

The situation

Conveniently located at a crossroads within the coronary heart of London’s bustling West Finish, The Cumberland is simply moments away from the town’s iconic Marble Arch, typically thought-about the gateway to London’s tradition, commerce and leisure. Simply yards from Marble Arch Underground station on the Central Line and with Hyde Park and Oxford Avenue’s world-renowned purchasing each solely a leisurely stroll away (it’s solely 5 minutes to Selfridges), the lodge is fantastically positioned.

Different good touches

The Cumberland sorted me exceptionally nicely. In my room was a bottle of fizz, a plate of recent fruit and a few complimentary goodies. 

The price

Double and twin rooms begin from £199 per evening.
Star Suites begin from £455 per evening.

One of the best bit

The exclusivity of the check-in was very sudden. It gave a beautiful first impression, and the backstage lounge served as a peaceable oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the primary lobby.

The ultimate verdict

Seamlessly combining trendy sophistication with basic class, my keep at The Cumberland was a totally gratifying one. The lodge’s fashionable decor, spacious Star suites and attentive service create a welcoming ambiance for visitors within the coronary heart of the town.

Dislcosure: Our keep was sponsored by The Cumberland.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxurious Journey Weblog and has labored within the journey trade for greater than 30 years. He’s Winner of the Improvements in Journey ‘Greatest Journey Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. Along with different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of many world’s finest journey blogs” and “finest for luxurious” by The Every day Telegraph.