The Windmill Clapham

Hotel review

Whilst revered locally for its buzzy pub downstairs, The Windmill boasts an equally charming hotel with 42 rooms right on Clapham Common. Part of the Young’s brewery group, their rooms exude an air of understated chic - there’s plenty of Farrow and Ball creams and greens (echoing the common) on the walls, as well as stylish bathrooms that - whilst not huge - more than make up for it in style. Each room features Sky TV for your enjoyment and free wifi, plus a minibar which might come in handy once the pub closes (12am on Friday and Saturday, 11pm the rest of the week). The master suite in particular is rather special, adorned with furnishings that wouldn’t look out of place in some of London’s most-loved boutique furniture shops, and there’s also a freestanding bath to boot - because why not? The staff are laidback and friendly, ready to help at a moment’s notice without being obtrusive in the slightest, and dog-lovers will fall head over heels for Max, the manager’s Bernese Mountain Dog. Tuck into lovely grub each evening accompanied by a large and varied selection of tipples, whilst the breakfast laid on has something for everyone: cereals, fry-ups, fruits, you name it. If you’re staying over the weekend, however, then be warned - Londoners south of the river flock from far and wide to come socialise in The Windmill, especially if there’s rugby or football to be enjoyed. If you’re looking for a quieter retreat then don’t be overly concerned - the hotel has its own entrance and is separated from the pub - but don’t expect a hugely peaceful setting if you’re staying for lunch! All in all, The Windmill is a cracking stay; its location simultaneously combines good traffic links with a peaceful setting away from the road, whilst the rooms and pub offer everything you need for a wonderful time.

Charles Braithwaite Review published: 29/10/2019