The Levin Hotel: Luxury in London’s Knightsbridge
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A narrow and petite building with only 12 rooms, the five star Levin Hotel in London is certainly intimate, and most definitely boutique. But what it lacks in size (which is by no means a Bad Thing) it makes up for in location, being just a credit card's throw away from Harrod's.
Boasting an exclusive Knightsbridge address, the Levin Hotel is all about understated luxury. It's not pompous or grand, the hotel simply knows what it offers and does this without making a fuss.
The reception is modest but beautifully decorated, with the 'bar' being a cabinet containing a small selection of drinks which guests can help themselves to on an 'honesty' basis. There is a small stand which operates as the front desk, and immediately upon entering you see the ornate hanging decoration which falls from the ceiling to bottom of the stairwell.
For a London boutique hotel, indeed a 'Small Luxury Hotel of the World', my room was a generous size. Not huge, but big enough for a luxury city break stay. It was elegantly designed in opulent reds and rich browns. Oh, and you can find a very lush Champagne mini-bar as well as a library of Penguin classics to enlighten your stay.
As expected, there were robes and slippers, and the gorgeous bathroom came with BOTH Molten Brown and Bvlgari toiletries – how yummy. I liked that the wardrobe was in a small hallway, between the bathroom and bedroom, so giving some additional space to the room.
We dined at the hotel's basement restaurant, 'Le Metro', which was cosy and relaxed. Again, very elegant whilst also managing to be informal. The menu was unpretentious with a good range of choices, and my salt & pepper squid starter (£9) was delicious, followed by a very fresh peppered tuna niçoise salad (£14).
The wine list was ample, and for £15 a bottle, it's definitely worth trying the 'Levin' wine that comes from the owner's own vineyard. I enjoyed an excellent sauvingon blanc which had a very similar zestiness to it that is often found with the new Zealand Marlborough varieties (my favourite).
As well as being exquisitely luxurious, The Levin is all about location, location, location – you couldn't find a finer place to play and stay in London.
Getting to London:
Virgin Trains operate services throughout the country, but travel in style with First Class, which can be especially affordable at off-peak times when booked in advance. I travelled from Manchester to London in Virgin First Class and enjoyed free wi-fi, a vegetarian breakfast in the morning and dinner with wine on the return, and a relaxing journey overall.
To book, telephone 08547 222 333 or visit http://www.virgintrains.co.uk
Contact tel: +44 (0)20 7589 6286
Cost standard double room: £££££
Services hotel restaurant, room service, business services, internet access, concierge, air-conditioning
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The Levin
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