Hilton Hotels & Resorts has opened the doors to its newest hotel in London – Hilton London Bankside, unveiling a property inspired by brutalist architecture, raw industrial design and urban living. Located just moments away from Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre, the design-led hotel is the latest property to join the Hilton brand portfolio of more than 70 hotels across the UK & Ireland.
Set in the heart of Bankside, a short distance from Tate Modern, one of the world’s most prestigious art galleries, Hilton London Bankside is home to 292 guest rooms including 25 bespoke suites which offer breathtaking views of the city skyline. The hotel also includes one beautiful penthouse apartment, which boasts its own private roof terrace, a 100m2 entertainment area and views across London. In addition, the hotel brings a new neighbourhood eatery, OXBO Bankside to the area, alongside The Distillery, a cool and casual bar.
Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Bankside is one of London’s most vibrant areas, with an eclectic mix of culture, food, architecture and attractions. With the city attracting around 30 million global visitors every year, we are delighted to be expanding our footprint in the city and look forward to putting Hilton London Bankside on the map as a key destination for travellers and Londoners alike.”
Rob Palleschi, global head, full service brands, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Located in one of Britain’s oldest settlements, Hilton London Bankside is a unique property, beautifully designed to represent the city’s historical past and urban environment. Known for its rich history and dynamic culture, Bankside is a key market area for the region and this opening elevates Hilton’s overall presence in this important destination”.
James Clarke, general manager, Hilton London Bankside said, ”I am thrilled to be playing a pivotal role in the opening of Hilton London Bankside. We are looking forward to welcoming our first guests to the hotel and hosting our first conference in the state of the art ballroom. Working closely in collaboration with my team, we will ensure we become a destination within Bankside for our local community and our international guests”.
Designed in partnership with Dexter Moran architects and Twenty2Degrees, each part of the hotel reflects the fascinating history and ambiance of the surrounding area, combining urban grittiness with an air of polished refinement. References to the neighbouring Tate Modern can be seen in the lobby flooring, which evokes the famous Turbine Hall, and the surprising and thoughtful collection of art displayed throughout the property. Striking bespoke lighting, exposed metal screens, bare brick work, reprocessed tube station tiles and bespoke joinery all feature, with furnishings inspired by the colours and prints of William Morris. Sculptures by British artist, David Farrer, accentuate the interiors, while reclaimed ceilings and murals have been designed especially for the hotel’s public spaces.
The hotel’s restaurant, OXBO Bankside, located on the ground floor, is Bankside’s newest neighbourhood eatery, offering a delicious all-day dining menu under the helm of Executive Chef, Paul Bates. The food reflects fresh British ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. OXBO Bankside is a relaxed space which includes an open kitchen with chefs cooking in front of guests, adding to the theatre of the restaurant. Beautiful bespoke lighting is another design feature of the restaurant, a theme that can be seen throughout the hotel.
The Distillery, the hotel’s resident bar, is set to become the place to be seen in Bankside and mirrors the energy of the area. Designed as a buzzy meeting point for the local commercial area and residents of Bankside, The Distillery will serve 50 types of gins and its very own Distillery Beer on tap. Located on the site of Stevenson & Howell’s Standard Works, a renowned essence factory in 1800s, The Distillery pays homage to its heritage, serving a range of signature cocktails incorporating homemade aromatics, infusions and bitters. The bar also serves a range of sharing platters and bar snacks, prepared by the restaurant kitchen and served until late.
The hotel is the perfect setting for grand celebrations or corporate events with eight flexible meeting rooms and the Bankside Ballroom, an impressive pillar free room accessed by sweeping grand staircases. Complete with glittering chandeliers, a six metre high ceiling and state of the art technology, the Bankside Ballroom is an exciting new venue for the area, holding up to 700 guests.
Executive rooms also have access to the Executive Lounge which serves breakfast, afternoon tea and evening menus of hot and cold canapés with a range of selected beverages, in a stylish, refined setting. A cosy fireplace, dedicated arrivals area and pre-check in showers are some of the added benefits of this exclusive space.
Hilton London Bankside offers a great base for exploring the city due to its close proximity to top attractions as well as Blackfriars Rail Station, which is easily accessible by train from Gatwick Airport. After a long day of exploring the city, guests can relax and unwind in the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness facilities, take a dip in the onsite swimming pool or get papered in the hotel’s treatment room.
