The Guardsman, London: A Perfect Pre-Christmas Escape
By Rachel Ducker
My recent visit to The Guardsman in Westminster, London, was nothing short of wonderful. My son Leo and I embarked on a pre-Christmas adventure to view the Regency Street light switch on whilst visiting Hamleys, from the moment we stepped into this luxurious hotel, we knew we were in for a treat.
Afternoon tea
Our trip kicked off with a seasonal afternoon tea, a warm welcome orchestrated by the talented Executive Chef, Paul Danabie. What stood out was Chef Danabie’s attention to detail—he crafted a personalised version for Leo, complete with his favourite jam sandwich as part of the spread. As I sipped on my glass of bubbles, Leo was entertained with engaging kids’ activities, ensuring a stress-free start to our stay.
The Guardsman suite
After indulging in hot chocolate and specially crafted teas, we made our way to the Guardsman suite, where luxury met functionality in the most charming way. The highlight was the room-dividing bath, a unique feature that added a touch of opulence to our room. Leo was pleasantly surprised to find a Guardsman teddy and a book awaiting him, while I appreciated the thoughtful gesture of room scent to enhance my relaxation before bedtime.
Our suite became a haven for exploration, with Leo particularly enjoying the treat of watching TV in the bath—a rare and delightful experience. It was these small touches that set The Guardsman apart, turning our stay into an unforgettable memory.
Watch the video of our stay here:
Food and Drink
As we prepared for dinner, the attention to detail continued to impress. Leo’s special request for a rectangular pizza was met with enthusiasm and skill, showcasing the kitchen’s dedication to accommodating every guest’s preferences. As a vegetarian, I appreciated the well-considered nutrition factors in the menu, providing a delightful culinary experience.
The restaurant itself exuded an elegant yet cosy ambience, complemented by a friendly and attentive staff. Their warm demeanour added to the overall charm of the dining experience, making us feel like cherished guests, this helps every parent feel at ease when travelling with over-excited young children.
Prime Location
The location of The Guardsman is another notable feature—it’s strategically positioned in the heart of the city, allowing easy access to various attractions and activities. This convenience, coupled with the hotel’s impeccable service, makes it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers.
Our exploration of London extended beyond the confines of The Guardsman, leading us to the vibrant and iconic Southbank. The Southbank, with its dynamic atmosphere and stunning views of the River Thames, offered an array of attractions that added an extra layer of excitement to our stay.
A highlight of our Southbank adventure was a visit to the illustrious London Eye. The panoramic views of the city from the top of this iconic observation wheel were nothing short of breathtaking. The slow rotation allowed us to take in the city’s skyline, spotting landmarks and capturing the essence of London from a unique vantage point. It was a moment of awe for both Leo and me, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of the city’s impressive architecture.
Continuing our journey along the Southbank, we couldn’t resist the allure of Shrek’s Adventure! London. The immersive experience brought the beloved characters from the Shrek movies to life, providing us with a magical and entertaining escape into the fairy-tale world. The interactive exhibits and engaging storyline made it an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
As we strolled along the Southbank, the imposing silhouette of Big Ben and the iconic Houses of Parliament came into view. The juxtaposition of historic landmarks against the modern cityscape exemplified London’s rich tapestry of tradition and contemporary life. We took a moment to appreciate the architectural marvels and captured some cherished photographs as the sun set, casting a warm glow on these symbols of British history.
The verdict
The Guardsman offers a perfect blend of luxury, warmth, and attention to detail. From the personalised afternoon tea to the unique suite features and the delightful dining experience, every moment was crafted to make our pre-Christmas getaway truly special. Leo and I left with hearts full of gratitude, already planning our next visit to this exceptional gem in the heart of London.
Fact box
Address: The Guardsman, 1 Vandon Street, Westminster, London, SW1H 0AH
Telephone: 0207 309 9200
Website: www.guardsmanhotel.com
Email: [email protected]
