The Mitre Hotel

Hotel review

There has been a coaching inn/hotel of some description on this site opposite the entrance gates to Hampton Court Palace since 1665. However the latest incarnation has certainly upped the ante! The property was bought by the Signet Collection and they have spent considerable sums transforming what was a fairly unremarkable destination to one that has had the critics raving. And it’s not hard to see why. You walk straight in to a cosy reception area with stripped wooden flooring, comfy sofas and a log fire, to be greeted by warm, cheerful staff and a glass of red! The interiors are just right for this riverside location. There’s just enough of the old coaching inn feel, which is complemented by beautifully chosen statement wallpapers, lovely furniture and attractive artworks and objets. Plus plenty of little nooks and crannies just begging you to sit down with a glass of something good and a newspaper or engrossing book. The Library is an awesome little space too; a beautifully decorated area (for hotel residents only) with great seating, books galore and a juke box if you’d prefer a party-type atmosphere. There are 36 individually designed rooms and suites each with their own unique character and each continuing the interior style of bold wallpapers, antique pieces, luxurious fabrics and indulgent touches including custom smellies created by the renowned Bramley brand exclusively for The Signet Collection, and a small bottle of their very own King’s Ginger liqueur and homemade gingerbread to revitalise you! For a special treat book one of the Royal rooms with a double ended in-room tub, or a suite for a truly indulgent deep copper bath. Dining here is a properly good experience too. There are two options: either the Coppernose Bar (breakfast is served here and they also do light bites and nibbles) or the 1665 Brasserie, and both are housed in two floors of a rotunda with waterfront views over the Thames (Coppernose upstairs, 1665 Brasserie below). The menu at the 1665 is excellent, with some classic dishes served with a welcome new twist (prawn marie rose with a splash of sriracha works a treat!) and some theatrical puddings that should not be missed (the baked Alaska for two which was flamed at the table and unbelievable raspberry and white chocolate souffles were particularly memorable). There’s a great outdoor terrace too, which is open year round, and a popular spot for both guests and non-residents alike. If you’re looking for a boutique stay, that enables you to access the best of London (35 mins on the train — the station is five minutes' walk away), yet not have to stay in the centre of the city, then this is it. A gorgeous riverside hotel that delivers on all fronts.

Sarah Empson Review published: 03/12/2024