LONDON
LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL COUNTY HALL
A LESSON IN OPULENCE AND ELEGANCE
DURING A SUMMER DESTINED TO CELEBRATE ALL OF THE FABULOUS THINGS THAT MAKE GREAT BRITAIN UNIQUE , THERE HAS BEEN NO TIME MORE PERFECT TO PAUSE AND ADMIRE OUR MAGNIFICENT CAPITAL CITY IN ALL OF ITS AWE-INSPIRING GLORY . BY OLIVIA RICCINI
Ask anyone the world over to envision London and they are likely to describe the city ’ s most iconic view - that which can be absorbed from Westminster Bridge . This is where I found myself last month for the unveiling of the London Marriott Hotel County Hall ’ s platinum jubilee celebrations . Drenched in the rays of the morning sunlight which scintillated off the newly unveiled golden clockface of the Elizabeth Tower , it was easy to see how this view once inspired legendary poet , William Wordsworth . Whether tourist or London local , the scenes from the bridge will unfailingly evoke emotion in anyone . With Big Ben behind , the London Eye perching on the riverbank to the left and the Houses of Parliament standing proudly to the right , red buses and black cabs motor their way across the bridge and into the city . Here , immersion in British heritage is palpable , as is the sense of being at the centre of not just the city ' s hustle and bustle , but the entire country itself .
This City now doth , like a garment , wear The beauty of the morning ; silent , bare , Ships , towers , domes , theatres , and temples lie Open unto the fields , and to the sky ; All bright and glittering in the smokeless air . – William Wordsworth
Sitting astride the banks of the Thames on the Southbank is another ode to the city ’ s history . Once prestigious government offices , County Hall remains a true landmark , now housing luxury hotel the London Marriott , as well as a host of other famous entertainment venues . While giving guests the opportunity to stay in this reputable spot , the hotel has endeavoured to honour the building ’ s unique heritage , encompassing a serene air of grandiose and importance that mirrors its political neighbour across the water . The elegant architecture , marble floors and grand fireplaces fit perfectly with the Marriott ’ s own brand of opulence ; a trait that is implemented at every twist and turn . From the wonderful staff that welcome you upon arrival to the spectacular swimming pool and gym that boast the title of being the largest in this area , guests can expect a beautiful stay at this city-centre oasis .
Bathed in evening sunlight that glinted off the Thames outside , I admire the remarkably fresh and airy ambience of my room . Although sporting a gorgeous bathroom complete with walk-in rainfall shower and a wonderfully comfortable bed that provided a deep and dreamy sleep , the pièce-derésistance of a room at the London Marriott Hotel County Hall are the unrivalled views of the Westmister cityscape outside . If you are unable to secure a room complete with a balcony that feels as though within touching distance of the London Eye , do not dismay - huge windows frame this Westmister tableau throughout the hotel , its magnificence unerring with every glimpse .
To celebrate the long-awaited unveiling of the Elizabeth Tower as well as The Queen ’ s platinum jubilee , the London Marriott Hotel County Hall ’ s talented chefs have created a brand new afternoon tea at The Library . An original attribute of County Hall ’ s political past that has been lovingly restored , the theme of British grandeur is very much present here , complete with the original antique books and bookcases creating private sections for those enjoying this British pastime . Guests can indulge in Champagne , a plethora of bespoke tea blends and an assortment of divine finger sandwiches , including a particularly delectable miniature lobster roll , before moving on to three irresistible little desserts that have been painstakingly created and moulded to resemble Big Ben . Heartier meals and cocktails , which prove to be just as delicious as the afternoon tea , can be enjoyed at the hotel ’ s sophisticated waterfront restaurant , Gillray ’ s .
For those wanting to embrace this year ’ s celebrations while basking in the magnificence of the capital , there is undoubtedly no better place to do so than the London Marriott Hotel County Hall .
London Marriott Hotel County Hall County Hall Westminster Bridge Rd London SE1 7PB www . marriott . com
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