Whilst it is absolutely brilliant to be walking down Portobello Road and gobbling down deliciously fresh street food on Golborne Road; socialising at Bluebird on The King’s Road and shopping on High Street Kensington, we do – occasionally – cast an envious eye on our neighbours in Mayfair (and Knightsbridge) due to their sheer superiority when it comes to world-class, luxury hotels complete with Michelin starred restaurants; cosily snug bars; the most zen of spas and the most splendid of rooms, suites and penthouses. The InterContinental Park Lane is one such place. Rubbing its towering shoulders with the likes of The Ritz and Four Seasons, this gem of a property is an esteemed hotel, perfect for exploring the urban marvel that is London. Royal parks; museums; other brilliant hotels; restaurants; bars and clubs are all within easy reach, while Soho, Oxford Street and Piccadilly are just a walk away.
And then, of course, there is the InterContinental Park Lane itself. A treasured landmark of Central London, it is home to a Theo Randall restaurant (which also serves breakfast); The Arch (an infinitely exciting bar); Number One Park Lane, which doubles up as its summer terrace and Wellington Lounge, which serves delectable afternoon tea. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed being back at the InterContinental Park Lane after the COVID break.
Though not quite as old as some of the other properties in the area, the InterContinental Park Lane occupies a hallowed place within the firmament of luxury hotels in the Big Smoke, having been officially opened by Valerian Wellesley, 8th Duke of Wellington in September 1975. The suites here are minimally 65 square meters and come equipped with all the spoils you’d need from a luxury hotel of this stature: divided into two categories, Mayfair and Signature, the former have recently been updated and feel particularly classy. Aside from the brilliant views of London parks, buildings and monuments, guests also enjoy complimentary access to Club InterContinental, which is located on the 7th Floor and boasts afternoon tea with a delectable array of sandwiches and freshly baked scones along with a wide
selection of jams, conserves and clotted cream.
For al fresco dining, even in the chill of London autumn and winter, look no further than Number One Park Lane. Heated parasols will keep you warm on the terrace as you sip on tea and cocktails, while the warm, well-trained staff will take very good care of you. Favourites on the menu include Devon Crab with saffron aioli and crispy seaweed, as well as a decadent lobster club sandwich and mushroom risotto. The coconut panna cotta with a spiced pineapple was the metaphorical cherry on the top.
Theo Randall is, of course, the top draw at the InterContinental Park Lane, serving standard Italian fare with a seasonal twist – but there is so much more than just food and drink to be enjoyed here. We are in one of London’s most vibrant and central areas, and everything fun and exciting seems just an arm’s length away. Most importantly, it feels positively like home away from home – and that is unquestionably down to the warmth of the staff and the familiar buzz of the hotel’s public spaces.
Christmas is a special time at Intercontinental Park Lane and there’s plenty to do to savour the special season. Winter Wonderland, wreath making masterclass and the timeless tradition of carol singing – these are just some of the things you could look to bring cheer and joy to your special December days at the hotel. Of course, there’s always Theo Randall at the InterContinental Park Lane, a warm, festive drink at Number One Park Lane terrace or host a marvellous celebration to be had at one of the hotel’s social spaces.
InterContinental Hotel Park Lane, One Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London W1J 7QY
For more information visit : https://parklane.intercontinental.com/festive-season/
Sid Raghava
