Located at 11 Cadogan Gardens, Relais & Chateaux offers a quintessentially British retreat, combining timeless charm with the vibrant life of Chelsea.
LONDON: On a bright summer morning in London, Chelsea’s Pavilion Road comes alive with a chorus of chatter. The vast, pedestrian-friendly Mew trembles with the energy of bakers, butchers and specialists, while 11 Cadogan Gardens stand proudly, offering a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle. Originally built as four separate Victorian mansions by Lord Chelsea in the 19th century, this charming boutique hotel exudes a sophisticated atmosphere. A labyrinth of luxurious hallways punctuated by intricately designed handrails leads to a grand entrance full of character. Just a short walk from lively Sloane Square and the fashionable King’s Road, known for its diverse shopping and dining options, you’ll find charming Pavilion Road, lined with stylish bakeries, leafy florists and high-profile boutiques. . Once a favorite of Victorian aristocrats, this place has transformed into a haven for artists and intellectuals. Choose from 56 rooms, each with its own unique flair. I found respite in a signature suite in the historic Mew, with private access and beautiful views of Pavilion Road. Alternatively, you can stay in the magnificent Sloane Suite, beautifully decorated with antiques and offering beautiful views of the lush Cadogan Gardens. This sophisticated retreat blends history and luxury, creating an idyllic sanctuary for those seeking a taste of local charm.
A fusion of luxury and elegance
As soon as I stepped into this luxury hotel, a world of luxury enveloped me. The interior exudes sophisticated charm, with shimmering metal accents, candle-like lighting, and polished wood creating an enchanting atmosphere. Originally built by Lord Chelsea in the 19th century, the main building was later developed into an exclusive members’ club. Dark colors and oil paintings line the grand staircase, while vibrant fresh flowers and a serene Secret Garden courtyard exude an uplifting atmosphere, perfect for a delightful afternoon tea. Inspired by the Chelsea Flower Show, I paired champagne with gin tea and a selection of exquisite pastries and sandwiches, elegantly presented on fine Wedgwood tableware. The property resonated with personality and completely eschewed the mundane. The ‘Heart of Chelsea’ came to life around me as a wide variety of people sought avenues of romance and self-discovery in this iconic neighbourhood. Their stories intertwine within an elegant backdrop, revealing a complex tapestry of relationships within the rich history that envelops this fascinating place.
Neighborhood
Step outside this historic building and you’re instantly enveloped in the charm of exclusive boutiques, world-class restaurants, and exclusive galleries, all within easy walking distance. After a strong espresso at Bill’s and some colorful shopping, we found solace at the hotel’s Chelsea Bar. Deep gold and charcoal interiors create a cozy atmosphere for enjoying rejuvenating cocktails. I returned to the library for some quiet time. Here I lost myself in Dickens’ stories of unrequited love and fierce battles, and the mustachioed lords and corseted ladies in the portraits above looked over me kindly. Wine tasting sessions in the Curio Room and Wine Room provide a pleasant break and the opportunity to enjoy wine at a relaxed pace. This atmosphere contrasts beautifully with Han’s Bar & Grill’s sumptuous cuisine, which combines South Coast fresh fish with locally sourced plant-based delicacies. Every bite was an explosion of flavor, vibrant, colorful, and consistently delicious. I was particularly enamored with the grilled shrimp and fried cauliflower, but I think any perfectly cooked dish deserves recognition. Offering options to suit every palate, the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients truly elevates the dining experience, making it a beloved spot for locals and hotel guests alike. Indeed, 11 Cadogan Gardens offers a quintessentially British experience that stimulates the senses, allowing you to enjoy tranquility while you wait for the vibrant life of the bustling city just minutes away. Located in the heart of Mayfair, this hotel exudes timeless charm, complemented by an excellent concierge service. Renowned as one of London’s most beautiful Relais & Châteaux properties, it exudes a quirky atmosphere and a lively boutique atmosphere.
last legs
It was time to go home, so after doing some research, I booked Premium Economy. The brainchild of Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic has represented a radical alternative to traditional airlines since its founding in 1984. With bold red uniforms designed by Vivienne Westwood and quirky aircraft names like Miss Moneypenny, the London-based airline exudes a fun, edgy vibe. Premium Economy (now simply called Premium) features spacious seats, a stylish amenity kit, and pre-flight champagne. While boasting significant comfort upgrades over the years, Virgin’s trademark irreverence and exceptional service consistently win praise, making it a true disruptor in the aviation industry. Premium Flying Virgin Atlantic was a surprise. The leather seats felt much wider than standard economy, with an extra inch of width and improved recline, making long-haul flights much more comfortable. We liked the adjustable headrest and added luxuries like the pull-out footrest. Economy Delight had some perks, but I appreciated the Premium’s larger touchscreen and AC port. The in-seat entertainment, Vera, had a larger 13-inch screen showing an impressive selection of movies. I enjoyed a snack at the self-serve Wonder Wall and enjoyed the whimsical airplane-shaped salt and pepper shakers along with my delicious meal. All in all, it was a great upgrade worth every penny.
Akanksha Deen is an independent food and travel writer, chef and catalyst behind Osteria Frances in Modena, Italy, which was rated as the world’s best restaurant in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2016 and 2018. He was the first Indian to train in Khana. It is currently ranked in the Best of the Best category.
