We check-in for a stay, and didn’t want to leave. Here’s why.
The Shangri-La, located on 34th to 52nd floors of the tallest and one of the newest building’s to dot the London skyline, The Shard, and lends itself, as you’d imagine, to remarkable rooms and views.
Like most of the streets in London, the driveway is tight, and you’d most likely miss it if you weren’t aware it was there, just a block away from the Tower Bridge tube station. The stark entrance to the building is almost unremarkable, until you actually go inside and it’s all shiny white marble and exquisitely arranged flowers. Everything has a place to keep with the minimalist look, which is until you take the elevators up to the 35th floor, and proceed to check-in.
Rooms 10/10
I’m going out on a limb to say you’re highly unlikely to find a more stunning city hotel room than those The Shangri-La At The Shard offers. Perched high above on the 50th floor, I unlock my room door and the view for even the most seasoned traveller to London, or indeed Londoners themselves, will leave you, like me, spell bounded.
Remarkably, it was a clear, bright sunny summer’s day (I’m told only one in a handful to expect in the UK) and where I stand from the doorway, all I can see is London, sprawled out in front of me. I’ve arrived in London and it’s there, all laid out like a postcard, for me to see from this one exquisitely designed spacious hotel room.
After being left gobsmacked at the doorway, the next logical step is to quickly charge to the floor to ceiling windows that surround most of the room to play ‘spot the landmark’. Iconic sights appear miniature from so high up; Tower Bridge, The Thames, Big Ben, The Gherkin, Westminster, St Paul’s Cathedral – on a clear day the view is endless. Not happy to be standing when you’re looking at the view? Head into the oversized bathroom where a large tub is perfectly positioned for bubble bath vistas.
Service 9.5/10
A humble crystal bowl of chocolate eclairs sit on the concierge’s desk on the 35th floor where the hotel comes to life, and is just another gentle touch of a warm British welcome – so small some may miss it but for those who notice, makes them instantly feel at home. At check-in time of 3pm, as soon as guests exit the lift to the Sky Lobby, they are kindly treated to a welcome drink – Chinese tea of course, a nod to the hotel’s Asian heritage.
During your stay, there are more offers to help with luggage and shopping bags than you can count. After the designated breakfast hours served at the 34th floor eatery TĪNG, trays of complimentary croissants, self-service tea and even a Nspresso machine are on offer for in-house guests heading out to explore or do business in London. It may all add up to simple touches, but for travellers to this hectic city, it’s a thoughtful sentiment.
Food 8.5/10
The Shangri-La brand has its roots firmly placed in Asia, and even half way across the globe, the group’s signature scent floods the senses and instantly brings front fond memories and familiarity. Asian touches are also subtly evident in the décor and perhaps also the quiet, exquisite service one can expect from a five-star luxury brand from the region, however where it is maximised most is the dining concepts, even if just by its names. TĪNG – the hotel’s signature restaurant where breakfast is served, the lounge GŎNG, suitably described as a destination bar on level 52, and LÁNG, a tucked away artisan deli and cake shop on the ground floor.
Breakfast is the only meal I sample on this stay, and is well catered for any type of guest – even if you go just by the seating. Comfortable lounges are coupled with large round dining tables, followed with low structured coffee table seating by the window – it’s a mix of families, couples and business people that I spot on this occasion and the restaurant beautifully caters to all the diverse needs of these groups. The spread includes both buffet and a la carte hot offerings of British and Asian cuisine, and if indeed you wanted to kick start your holidays, French Champagne can be purchased for £10 a pop.
Facilities 10/10
There’s facilities then there’s a skypool located on the 52nd floor. Surely it’s easy to imagine how luxurious and relaxing it would be to float along with London sprawled below. The tranquil space is an escape for guests to enjoy iconic vistas, and for those chilly London days, the pool is of course, heated.
There’s also a fully equipped gym on the same floor with floor-to-ceiling windows for those who like a view while training. Guests can also indulge in spa treatments either in the comfort of their room or in one of the spa residences and personal training sessions can be made on request.
Value for money 9/10
London hotel prices are some of the most expensive in any big city, and while luxury accommodation doesn’t come cheap, it does offer fantastic value. The location is sublime, perfect for anyone wanting to also come across a non-touristy spot and indulge in weekend activity like the nearby Borough Market. Book early, particularly during high-season.
Overall 9.5/10
It’s hard to fault The Shangri-La, they’re in the hotel business and know what guests want, and actually deliver. Simply put, this hotel has it all, particularly those wanting a truly iconic London experience. While the views are stunning and lift the hotel to new heights (literally), it’s also matched with luxurious service and spacious rooms – hard to come by in the city. In a nutshell, a stay here is a one-of-a-kind and not-to-miss experience.
