The Ampersand Hotel

The Scene

Though at time South Kensington may feel more Paris than London, you would certainly have to cross the Channel to find as many world- class institutions like the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Science Museum (to name only a scant few). The Ampersand Hotel is mere steps from the South Kensington Tube station if you fancy going further (or just faster) than your feet could take you, but you’re in the unquestionable cultural heart of London.

The Concept

The mission of The Ampersand is connection of all kinds just as its eponymous punctuation mark connects ideas with one another. This splendid destination serves as your link not only for fantastic food and a welcoming hotel but also between travelers and London at large. While the design centered around nearby landmarks is executed stylishly, the restaurants are the real draw for locals and visitors alike. Unpretentious Apero marries bright New York industrial design with a Mediterranean tapas menu. Upstairs from Apero is The Drawing Room which features “light bites” and Afternoon Tea daily in a bright English drawing room blended with a French salon de thé feel (South Kensington is, after all, the 21st arrondissement). We highly recommend challenging someone to a table tennis tournament in the Games Room if free or peruse the many books of The Library.

The Look

A range of grays furnishes the backdrop to five Victorian-era areas of study (which, not coincidentally, also tie into many of the landmarks in the area): astronomy, music, ornithology, botany, and geometry. The themes play out on the walls and in fabrics with a bright accent color or two, changing with the room. The room type determines the theme; singles and doubles feature astronomical designs, superior rooms play out a musical theme, deluxe rooms take flight with ornithological interiors, deluxe studios sprinkle in botanical style, and suites lay out a geometric theme. Expect better city and skyline views higher up, but frankly for the best views The Ampersand has to offer retreat down to Apero in the basement and enjoy the parade of legs trotting by.

In Short

The Ampersand has situated itself at the perfect junction of London’s culture and design, skillfully connecting travelers with the heart of London(ers) upon the backdrop of a gourmet getaway. It’s the place for meeting & eating with an inviting & comfortable atmosphere.