Last week, I indulged in a luxurious city staycation at the Athenaeum Hotel in Mayfair, just a stone’s throw away from Buckingham Palace. This location is perfect for enjoying all that London has to offer. Life has been so hectic recently, so a relaxing evening was in order!

The hotel’s archway is decorated with beautiful, colourful hydrangeas, roses, and eucalyptus. I admired the lobby’s interior, which features lots of quirky artwork, mismatched chairs and sofas, and plenty of mirrors!

Bond Street is a 7-minute walk from the hotel, so I spent the day there looking for Christmas presents. I know it’s early! As soon as I stepped into the hotel lobby, I felt calm and relaxed, as if I had returned home. That’s something I always notice about a hotel lobby – how it makes you feel when you return. If it gives you a warm, welcoming feeling, it’s a great sign to stay again!

I headed straight up to one of their reception rooms and enjoyed some delicious hors d’oeuvres and wine whilst reading one of their artist books from the bookshelf. This area was so cosy, with views looking over London and cosy corner sofas to get snug into. I spent a few hours there, soaking in the views as the sun set over London. It was incredibly peaceful.

I stayed in the spacious park-view room, with bay window views over one of London’s most loved Royal Parks. The room had lots of natural light, floor-to-ceiling mirrored walls and the cosiest bed with a hotel teddy for the extra special touch. The bathroom was the highlight of the room. It featured a beautiful marble design, non-steam mirrors, fluffy white robes, and hotel slippers.

I was warmly welcomed into my room with a fruit platter, a personalised card, and some luxury chocolates to enjoy. After admiring the room and checking out the mini fridge, I hopped straight into my luxury robe and slippers; I felt so relaxed!

I was so comfortable in my room that I ordered room service instead of heading down for dinner, a rare occurrence, but it was such a lovely memory. The Athenaeum offers contemporary British cuisine with seasonal menus that showcase local producers and the finest ingredients. To start, I ordered carrot, ginger, and coconut cream soup with pumpernickel crumble. Honestly, I need the recipe; it was sensational. The fact that it started to downpour outside made the soup even more enjoyable. I ordered a sirloin steak with creamy mashed potatoes and peppercorn sauce for the main course. It was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. The steak was incredibly succulent and packed with flavour. I savoured every mouthful. The mash was super fluffy with the creamiest texture, so delicious. After the meal, I enjoyed a Nespresso coffee from the room and devoured the complimentary chocolates!

After one of the best nights’ sleep I’ve had in ages, I woke up to breakfast in bed; I felt so spoiled! Iced coffee, a freshly made smoothie, fresh fruit, warm pastries, nutty granola and a vegetarian cooked breakfast. It was a slow morning, and I enjoyed a beautiful start to the day. After showering, I sat by the bay window, admiring the view one last time before heading home.

### Nearby Attractions

* Royal Parks
* Buckingham Palace
* Bond Street
* Selfridges
* Harrods
* Hamleys
* Big Ben
* West End Theatres

If you’re seeking a cosy yet luxurious hotel near many attractions, this is the perfect choice.

W: Athenaeum Hotel

Written by Danielle Tobin for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International