A luxury townhouse hotel in the centre of Knightsbridge, The Levin has an air of homely comfort. The welcome is friendly and helpful staff even remember your name. What’s more, with Harrods just around the corner, this tiny, quaint hotel could be the key to shopaholic paradise.
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Who for
Being at the heart of central London, The Levin is ideal for those wanting to make the most of the cultural sites and fancy boutiques. It’s also a great choice for the lovebirds – the romance package comes complete with red roses, pink champagne, strawberries, and breakfast in bed.
However, if you are looking for the ‘big’ hotel experience, complete with swimming pools, gyms and conference centres, the Levin is not for you. Also, the hotel is unsuitable for barflies and large groups – unless you intend to take over the entire establishment.
Accommodation
The 12 rooms at The Levin (Classic, Deluxe, and Junior Suite) are on the small side for a four-star hotel, but spacious for London. The design is stylish yet homely, with Art Nouveau furnishings and charming little touches, including a selection of Penguin classics to peruse.
The Levin is located in a relatively quiet street, although silence cannot be guaranteed. Unfortunately, the walls are a little on the thin side, so just prey your neighbours are not honeymooners or saxophone players.
The fully air-conditioned rooms are complete with luxury bedding, marble bathrooms with under-floor heating, 24-hour room service, and in-room Champagne mini bar.
Food and drink
Le Metro Bar and Brasserie is open from 7:30am each day until late, serving breakfast, lunches, afternoon teas, and evening dining. The main menu serves an assortment of international from fish and chips to Italian gnocchi.
Unfortunately, breakfast is not what you expect for the price you pay, although what you get is very good quality – fresh fruit, homemade jam, and quality cereal. It’s also a bit of a sting having to pay extra for a full English breakfast, considering the price of the room.
Facilities
The hotel goes for a chic yet ‘homely’ feel, and the facilities are simple and functional.
Overnight parking is also available at an optional charge.
What’s nearby
The hotel is a haven for boutique shopping addicts due to its proximity to Harrods (literally around the corner) and other luxury department stores. Culture vultures will be kept entertained by the vast array of nearby museums and galleries – The Victoria and Albert Museum, The Natural History Museum, and the Royal Academy of Arts are only a short walk or ride away. For classical music lovers, the illustrious Royal Albert Hall is a 20-minute walk from the hotel, although a taxi is recommended if the weather is (predictably) unfavourable.
To the north of Knightsbridge, Hyde Park and the Serpentine lake provide attractive open spaces away from the throng.
The nightlife in London is varied, offering something to suit practically every taste. Knightsbridge is best known for it’s high-class bars, swanky casinos, and glitzy nightclubs. If you haven’t already had enough of luxury department stores, head to the Fifth Floor Champagne Bar at Harvey Nicholls, where you can try a delicious array of vintage and botanical themed cocktails.
Insider’s tip: If you are banking on sleeping in glorious silence, request that you be placed in a room not facing Basil Street. Then again, this is central London, so don’t get your hopes up!
Room rates
£300 per night for the Classic Double – includes breakfast.
Disabled access
Yes, there is one ground floor room and lift/elevator, although it is admittedly quite small.
Family friendly
While the hotel may not specifically cater for children, the Junior Suite has a separate sitting area with two sofas, one of which can be converted into a child-sized bed. For couples wanting to spend the day without their beloved offspring, the hotel offers babysitting and child services.
WiFi available
Yes, and it’s complimentary.
Getting there
The hotel is a mere stone’s throw from Knightsbridge Underground station (on the Piccadilly line), located next to Harrods. From here you will have easy access to many places of interest within and around Central London – as well as quick, direct access from Heathrow airport and St. Pancras International station.
Image credits: thelevinhotel.co.uk