Our writer, Rachel McAlley had a wild experience at nhow London, here’s what she thought. As soon as she walked through the doors, she knew this stay was going to be special.
I had a heard a few whispers about the nhow brand before I visited, specifically about nhow London was super trendy and completely different to any other hotel. Those whispers weren’t wrong, because from the moment I entered it was like walking into a fun factory.
nhow London Foyer, Lounge & Reception
To my left, and straight through the entrance foyer was a giant Big Ben statue, maybe 12ft high, leaning to one side shaped like a rocket and ready to take off. Then, to my right the hotel reception, with lobsided, upside down and sideways video screens all playing something different. A black phone box stood proudly opposite reception with nhow branded goodies to purchase, it was a mini shop.
Straight ahead were plush sofas in bright colours, neon signs dotted around saying ‘London Calling’, ‘Warm’, ‘Cool’ and ‘Glow’. Plus, fully upholstered chairs in fabric that made them look like the King’s Guards, in black and red. Furthermore, a huge teddy sat enjoying the surroundings in a funky chair and there was plenty of boardgames for everyone to enjoy. It was a hotel like no other.
nhow London Bedroom Floor
All this before I checked in and took the lift to my room on the sixth floor. I was in a suite, at the very end of the hotel corridor. It was a unique walk along the corridor, dark curtains covered the walls, deep green paint between each room, and bright carpet. Moreover, every bedroom had a panelled front door, with personal knocker and door knob.
When I opened my dark red front door I entered a mini room, which was painted in bold red, with a red porcelain hand on the wall. I was intrigued instantly.
The Sixth Floor Suite
I left my suitcase in the red room and opened the next door to find a bright and airy walkway with fridge and tea and coffee to my right. There were large floor to ceiling windows, a glass panel with white curtain and freestanding bath behind it. Plus, a desk and chair, and Marshall’s DAB radio. Directly in front was a lounge area with sofa and huge TV, and in the angled corner nook with windows on both sides an arm chair, table and reading light. Additionally, from the lounge area the bedroom was to the side, with king-sized bed, wardrobes, TV and Union Jack rug.
nhow London Bathroom
The bathroom was unmistakably unique. With a portrait of King Charles II watching over whilst on the loo, it was an interesting seat to sit on! The towels were embossed with a royal crest, and there was graffiti on the walls. Furthermore, the shower was hidden in an alcove and the bath was behind the king’s portrait.
All-in-all this hotel room was one of the funkiest I have ever stayed in. Even the coffee mugs were hipster-cool, and the bathroom toiletries included bath salts and lip balms.
I unpacked my suitcase, enjoyed a cuppa, and watched a little TV before getting ready for dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Dinner at Guilty
Once I’d been seated at my table within ‘Guilty Restaurant’, I spent some time looking around. The restaurant was just as fabulous as everywhere else in the hotel. Again, there were more neon signs saying ‘#FoodPorn’ and ‘Guilty’ on the walls. In addition, some of the tables had words like ‘Sausage & Mash’ and ‘Fork & Knife’ emblazoned across them.
Firstly, I ordered a Bread Basket with Basil Butter (£6) and a Caesar Salad with Cajun-Style Prawns (£21.50). It was just what I needed after a busy day in London; something fresh, light and extremely tasty. Secondly, the bread was warm, and the butter was perfection, I didn’t want it to end! My salad was massive, and was topped with anchovies, croutons, and loads of cajun prawns. Thirdly, I went to bed that night with a large smile on my face.
Breakfast at nhow London
The following morning, I headed back down to the restaurant for breakfast. I had been told by a friend that nhow had just launched a summer bowls menu and that I should definitely try something from there. So, I opted for their new Blue Mood Bowl (£11), which was a velvety spirulina yoghurt, with blueberries, bananas, and toasted pecans. I certainly chose well, it was packed with flavour, vitamins, and protein. A great way to start the day.
I took pictures of the breakfast bar before I left as there was a mini fairground ride in the form of a Ferris Wheel slap bang in the middle of the table. This centrepiece was revolving, and in each little ‘seat’ was a muffin to enjoy. Honestly, I didn’t think nhow London could be anymore fabulous!
Checkout and General Info
As checkout wasn’t until 12pm, I managed to do a little work in my room before packing my suitcase and heading to reception for the last time. It was a bitter sweet goodbye as I could have easily stayed for longer in the comfort of Room 615.
Huge thanks to all at nhow London Shoreditch for inviting me to spend the night and experience all the hotel had to offer.
nhow London is a dog friendly hotel, and is perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers. The lounge area is a great place to meet friends, play jenga and hang out, and the bar is stocked with every drink you could ever want. Equally, the hotel has a small meeting room for business guests, and an onsite gym for those who want to keep fit.
Room prices start from £200 per night, Suites like the one I enjoyed are priced from £350 per night. Dinner and Breakfast are priced separately. Visit nhow London to book a room or a table at Guilty Restaurant.
nhow London – Words by Rachel McAlley @LadyRach
