Set in London’s bustling West End, a stone’s throw from Theatreland and some of the capital’s classiest shops and bespoke boutiques, the Cavendish is a real gem of a hotel – a perfect summer getaway.

And with passport applications in apparent meltdown, an hour-and-a-half drive up the M3 seems a small price to pay to sample the delights of one of Europe’s finest cities.

The four star Cavendish is situated on Jermyn Street, in the London district of St James’, which is known for its connections to the aristocracy and historic gentlemen’s clubs.

A hotel has stood on the site since the end of the 1700s, but in 1836 its name was changed to the Cavendish.

Today it is a thoroughly modern rebuild, having been erected in the early 1960s at a cost of £2million. But unlike many modern hotels, the Cavendish has managed to hold on to its 200-year heritage... Photographs of the remarkable wartime owner Rosa Lewis hang prominently in the hotel’s reception.

Today the 12-storey Cavendish boasts 230 rooms, which start at £179 for a standard, with breakfast and including VAT.

Our double executive room, towards the top of the building, boasted stunning panoramic views across the city – all the way to St Paul’s Cathedral and beyond.

The night-time view from the Cavendish is a stark reminder of how London’s cityscape is up there with the best of them.

St James’ historic streets give the impression you’re close to London’s beating heart, while at the same time remaining enough off the beaten track for things to feel exclusive.

The Cavendish’s location means you don’t need to travel far to enjoy some of the best pubs, restaurants and shops in London – five minutes in any direction will suffice. However, I’d strongly recommend eating at the hotel – the special pre-theatre menu offered two courses for £16.50 or three for £20.50.

Compared to many of the menus in this part of London, these prices represent superb value.

I ordered the pan fried chicken breast, confit & breaded drumstick, Jerusalem artichoke puree, morels and red wine sauce as my main. It was, simply, excellent.

The full English Breakfast, included in the price, is also a must. If you really want to live it up, I’d recommend filling out the room service breakfast order and hanging it outside your door the night before, and enjoy it in the comfort of your room.

Getaway

The Cavendish London, 
81 Jermyn Street, St James’s, London SW1Y 6JF
Telephone: 020 7930 2111
Fax: 020 7839 2125
Online: thecavendishlondon.com