The Greater London area is spread across more than 600 square miles, from the glimmering terminals of Heathrow Airport in the west to the edges of Epping Forest in the east, and it feels like you can see every little inch of it from the Shangri-La. Hell, it feels like you can see as far as Birmingham on a good day. The floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around each of the hotel’s 202 rooms are truly panoramic, and they’re there everywhere you go.
This is exactly what you’d expect from a place that occupies floors 34 to 52 of the iconic Shard – the massive glassy spike that has come to define London’s south-of-the-river skyline. And, bearing in mind this is the Shangri-La we’re talking about, a brand that’s built its name on luxury, you can expect everything else about the hotel to reach a similar height. The beds are insanely comfy, the armchairs are covered in squeaky brown leather, and the bathrooms sparkle with a whole lot of marble that makes them feel like a Russian palace (and yes, the big windows can be found in there too).
When it comes to food, the Shangri-La has established itself as one of the city’s most popular spots for afternoon tea, but the buffet breakfast deserves just as much attention. It’s sensational. The selection is extensive and top-quality ingredients from Borough Market ensure every plate you load up will be bursting with flavour. Leave plenty of time to make the most of it.
Neighbourhood:
Borough is one of the city’s most exciting places to be if food is your thing – start at Borough Market and go from there. It’s also ideal if you want to delve into London’s galleries and arts centres (Southbank Centre and the Tate Modern are just a short walk away) and is right next to major sights like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London if you want to tick off some attractions.
Nearby:
1. Monmouth Coffee Company: For caffeine addicts who want to nerd out on carefully sourced beans from the granddaddy of London roasteries.
2. The George: For parched punters who want to grab a pint in one of London’s most historic pubs (Shakespeare himself used to drink here).
3. White Cube Bermondsey: For people who want to see a top-notch exhibition in a space that’s just as eye-catching as the art.
Time Out tip:
Ask for a room with a bathtub so that you can soak in those breathtaking views whilst lazing beneath some bubbles.
