This post features a press stay at Lime Tree Hotel, Belgravia. There was no obligation to post and all views are my own.
It’s fair to say that in my years of road-testing hotels, I’ve honed in on what I look for in accommodation. Contrary to what you might think, it’s not always a pink aesthetic with modern fixtures. It’s about how somewhere makes you feel – the service, the little touches, the personality and history a place holds. I believe that spaces should reflect their environment and take people into a world that they don’t often get to experience. Enter Lime Tree Hotel, a historic townhouse hotel nestled in Belgravia, that embodies a Georgian family home with all the quintessential charm that you’d want from a West London abode.
Situated on the junction of Ebury Street and Elizabeth Street (N.B. two very lovely roads), if you’re looking to get “London from the movies”, this 26-bedroom retreat is exactly that. The Grade II-listed building is inconspicuous and modest (look up for the real details), but makes itself known with the flurry of those wining and dining in its attached restaurant, The Buttery
As someone who lived in London for ten years, it’s not often that I’ve actually been a tourist in my native city, but if I were looking to be, Lime Tree Hotel would be the perfect spot. Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the many museums of West London are all within walking distance, and Belgravia and Sloane Square are idyllic shopping spots with a little less foot traffic than other central spots.
While the location screams *every British rom-com*, the interior also works its magic to ensure a very typical British stay. It’s eclectic and whimsical, filled with a treasure trove of carefully curated collectibles and eclectic artwork. The reception lounge is a place to rest and recharge, permitting you to relax with a magazine, and winding staircases lead up to a mix of rooms in different sizes and varied layouts.
For one night only, we hunkered down into a ‘Generous Double’ which according to Lime Tree’s blurb ‘boasts significantly more space than the Comfy rooms’ while also accommodating showstopping Georgian windows (perfect for people-watching below), original cornices, and meticulously clashed patterns on the decor front.
The room was perfectly sized for my friend and me, and the large queen bed saw us through the night with little disturbance. The only flaw on my end was the lack of a bathrobe – entirely unnecessary of course – but this boutique bolthole sets the scene for a night of recuperation, so pack your spa essentials.
If there’s something that you must incorporate into your trip, it’s breakfast at The Buttery. In fact, this oh-so-chic and very buzzy café should be on your list regardless of if you are a paying hotel guest. The homely interiors make it a great spot for a morning meeting, and the food is simple but delicious. I opted for the Shakshuka – a hearty tomato sauce served with two poached eggs, creamy Greek yoghurt, leek oil, and dukkah – while my friend chose the vegan breakfast which came with a very welcome touch of roasted baby potatoes. Come for the food, stay for a lesson in gallery walls and banquette seating.
A guide to Belgravia and beyond:
Chow down at Chucs
We took a punt on Chucs after spotting the Italian vibes from across the street. If Italian Riviera glamour, creamy Cacio e Pepe, and indulgent tiramisu (say no more) are your thing, Chucs won’t disappoint.
Browse Belgravia
The hotel itself is surrounded by a wonderful selection of independent coffee houses, restaurants, and boutiques. Belgravia truly gives those pretty London village vibes that seem to only exist on screen. My recommendations include perusing the tableware at Summerill and Bishop, buying snacks at Bayley and Sage, and nipping over to the trendy Ecclestone Yards.
The Saatchi Gallery
As a student, you’d often find me plonked in The Saatchi Gallery thanks to its free exhibitions and laidback vibe. Today, it’s the same deal and I highly recommend it for a quick hour of culture and discovery. Plus, the gift shop is *chef’s kiss*
Walk the King’s Road
Once home to swinging sixties culture (did someone say Biba?), King’s Road is now a little less musician squats and more multi-million-pound apartments and swanky shops. Rixo’s stunning flagship is home to a seriously stunning bar and teeny coffee shop, while other cult brands such as Ganni and Taschen have similarly appealing stores here. Keep your eyes peeled for charity shops as you can often find designer goods at reasonable prices.
Stop by Anya Hindarch’s Village
What’s better than a shop in one of London’s most exclusive postcodes? A whole village of course. Pont Street is home to a gaggle of the accessories designer’s shops, alongside an ever-changing concept store (previous iterations have included an ice-cream shop, stationery outlet, and greengrocers) as well as the Anya Cafe which is reasonably priced with good food, good service, and suitably-themed cakes.
Looking for more London tips and hotel recommendations? For more interior inspiration, colour clashing and sustainable finds, check out the rest of my blog. Follow me on Instagram for more EJP in your life.
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