We’ve stayed at many five-star hotels and many boutique hotels, but a recent stay at Hazlitt’s in the heart of London’s Soho has made us want to invent a completely new classification. Combining the service and quality of a five-star with the individuality of a boutique, the hotel occupies three Georgian Houses on Frith Street, an unbeatable location. You are a short stroll from the excellent shopping of Covent Garden, the theatre district and any number of great restaurants and bars. But it is within the cocoon of Hazlitt’s that the most enjoyment is to be had.
Each of the 30 bedrooms is traditionally furnished with panelled walls and beautiful antique furniture. All rooms are air-conditioned and have complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen television, mini bar, safe, antique desk and REN toiletries. If it’s a special occasion it is definitely worth choosing one of the suites. Every suite is named after a former resident or regular visitor to the house, such as the split-level “Teresa Corneleys,” who spent her time at the house after having an affair with Casanova. Such romantic inclinations extend to the bedroom whose huge bed is decorated with rich fabrics and hand carved gilded cherubs – if you are not in the mood then you can open the antique mirror to reveal a large plasma television or avail of the numerous data points at the desk area. Adjoining is an extra sitting room with yet another flat screen tv, stereo with iPod connection and a diverse book collection. Upstairs is the marble bathroom complete with four angle power shower and a large and luxuriant bath tub.
If you do feel like leaving the bedroom the Library offers a very pleasant setting to relax and browse through the many first editions on the shelves here while sipping a drink from the honesty bar. Business travellers will find this a great spot for entertaining guests or hooking up to the free Wi fi connection (available throughout the hotel). Service at Hazlitt’s is unobtrusive and efficient while still warm and friendly. Breakfast here is served to your room, and the pleasure of tucking into croissants – baked on the premises that morning – completes the feeling that all is well with the world.
