For a slice of sophisticated, laid-back luxury overlooking the Thames it’s hard to beat the Bingham Riverhouse. This beautiful 18th century property has a fascinating history, not least because previous residents were Katherine Bradley and Edith Cooper (an aunt and niece duo better known under the pseudonym Michael Field, a writer of poetry and verse) who made it an artistic and literary hub, hosting the likes of John Ruskin and WB Yeats.
Now family owned, the property has been renovated and restored to provide a stunning chic, sophisticated hotel boasting wonderful river views, interiors by Nicola Harding and a private members’ club feel akin to that of Soho House (indeed you can become a member here too). The fifteen rooms range from cosy to river rooms, but all feature handmade Naturalmat beds, sustainable fitted furnishings and neutral palettes enlivened by pops of burnt oranges and blues. For a truly special stay, book one of the river rooms with their hand-forged copper in-room tubs and waterside vistas. The health conscious will love the yoga mat that’s in every room and in the bathrooms you’ll find CBD drops to ensure a great night’s sleep.
In addition to the sleek accommodation, downstairs Bingham Riverside is all about a convivial time either in the lovely gardens (with direct access to the river path), on the waterfront terrace or at the fabulous Stephen Edwards Restaurant where the tasting menus champion the best local and British produce. The spacious bar with its towering high ceilings is a standout feature and the restaurant pays homage to the property’s literary past with its shelves crammed with penguin classics.
Finally, it’s worth noting the staff who are warm, friendly and always eager to help.
If you’re looking for a boutique property with easy access to the centre of London, yet a slightly country feel, then this is it. Definitely one for couples or groups of friends wanting a fun destination with a buzzy vibe and stunning location.
Boutique
Foodies
City Style
Luxury
Learning
Wildlife Area
Riding
Romantic Break
Close to nightlife
Designer Shopping
Sights nearby
Great walks
Child friendly
Gym
Sit-out Terrace
Four poster beds
Chic
Views
Wonderful views over the river offer peace and a sense of restfulness.Child friendly
Babysitting on request.Gym
A local gym.In room DVD
Safe
Bath robes
Parking
Bar
Fireplace
Meeting Room
Private dining room
Sit-out Terrace
Wifi
Four poster beds
In room music system
Satellite / Cable TV
Suites
Room service
Sitting Room
Garden
Learning
Wildlife Area
Riding
Close to nightlife
Designer Shopping
Sights nearby
Great walks
If ever there was a (dread word) “boutique” hotel, it’s the Bingham. It’s slick and glamorous, but its style is somewhat formulaic, with a contemporary, interior-designed look that one has seen often. In other words, it looked, at first glance, as if it belonged to the “professionals” rather than the “amateurs”. And then, at second glance, you know, or at least I do, that it doesn’t. Somebody really minds about this place. I can see it in the warmth and promptness of the delightful, mainly Indian staff; in the pristine way the place is kept; the cohesive atmosphere which, despite the chandeliers, mushroom walls and chunky modern furniture, evidently makes people feel at home.
Originally published by The Telegraph
My starter of organic salmon with braised octopus was wonderful, the fish so meltingly soft, it wasn't so much cooked as minimally changed from being raw. It sat in a purée of white beans with a ragu of baby squid. The combination was combustive, salmon and squid playing off each other like Reinhardt and Grappelli.
Originally published by The Independent
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