bathroom with full size bath and shower was the master bedroom suite with king size bed , dressing table and marble ensuite . The residence is completed with a superbly appointed kitchen with fridge , oven , microwave and more – you honestly never have to leave … But of course when in London and when at The Taj , there is more to see , do and eat !
If you need inspiration or assistance to plan family days out , the Kids @ Taj programme not only offers a themed ‘ London Activity Book ’ but also the services of the concierge to assist with plans for trips to museums , the theatre , and London ’ s favourite toyshop , Hamleys . They can even assist with trips outside of London too including Legoland Windsor and even a bespoke Harry Potter Experience .
Wanting some blissful chillout time closer to your room ? Then head straight to Jiva spa . A haven of bliss and the first Jiva concept in Europe , here East meets West in a unique fusion of Indian wellness philosophy and luxury British innovation , with spa treatments designed to completely relax and restore . Opt for a signature treatment such as ‘ Vishrama ’, a deep muscular massage for profound relaxation ; ‘ Sushupti-Relax ’ an indulgent aromatic footbath ; or the silk-gloved exfoliation of ‘ Vishuddi ’; or simply bask in the basement vitality pool for some much deserved me-time relaxation .
While the residence kitchen is perfect for family dining prep , no trip here would be complete without sampling the Taj hospitality offerings .
Alongside Michelin-starred Quilon you ’ ll find Kona , which proudly delivers award-winning afternoon teas including the popular Queen of Hearts with beautifully designed pastries and scrumptious savoury treats inspired by the foul-tempered monarch from the beloved children ’ s classic Alice in Wonderland . Last but by no means least , our dining destination for the evening , Bistro .
Having undergone an extensive refurbishment in 2017 , Bistro is an elegant , classic dining room with an Indian-influenced seasonal menu bursting with fresh , locally sourced ingredients . With no dedicated children ’ s menu , younger guests are instead encouraged to try from the main á la carte menu which offers a range of classic British and Mediterranean bistro staples alongside tempting Indian delights .
Starters included a heaving antipasti platter of parma ham , salami , sun dried tomatoes and olives alongside a delicately spiced mini samosa chaat with a duo of chutney . The small plates of chicken fajita bao with guacamole and the crisp halloumi fries proved an instant hit . Main courses continued the flavour delight with house specials kadai paneer , aloo gobhi , and malabar prawn curry vying for attention alongside lamb rogan josh and our eventual recommended pick the chicken tikka masala cooked in a tandoor with a subtly spiced tomato cream . There was also plenty of choice for those with a less spicy yet still refined palette . The Yorkshire beef fillet with baby vegetables and red wine sauce was a delight , as was the teriyaki salmon with alfalfa sprouts . Desserts continued the seasonal , flavoursome theme . The lemongrass and lime crème brûlée and the alphonso mango cheesecake offered the perfect fruity-with-a-twist end to our evening .
While a family staycation was made super easy thanks to the expansive suites and sublime service that extended across the whole Taj team , there are of course more strings to the Taj bow .
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate has recently unveiled its maiden European outpost of India ’ s first and most revered members club , Taj The Chambers . Designed by Conran & Partners , the beautifully crafted Taj The Chambers sees British traditions meet the warm service culture of Tajness , providing members with high-end facilities to conduct business or to simply relax and unwind . Not only will you find a sophisticated bar and individual work pods , but also a smart private dining space , which also transforms into a meeting room . The additional lounge offers flavoursome and exquisitely presented Indian and international cuisine .
Now available in six Taj hotels in India , one in Dubai and a new launch in New York due to follow the London opening , and with member benefits including a lifetime membership , special offers at its restaurants , the best room prices and upgrades , complimentary breakfast , curated events and exclusive experiences , it ' s a membership experience not to be missed .
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate London SW1E 6AF www . taj51buckinghamgate . co . uk
taj51bg
THE BEST WAY TO GET TO LONDON
With super fast connections courtesy of Southeastern ’ s High Speed trains , families can venture to London in less than an hour , all ready to enjoy some family fun and adventure . www . southeasternrailway . co . uk
137