Winter in London is always a season I look forward to. Brisk walks, flushed cheeks and that familiar craving for warmth once the darker days take over. In the heart of Bloomsbury, The Montague on the Gardens taps into that wintery feeling perfectly, with the return of its much loved Winter Lodge and Cheese Fondue Experience.
It’s a cosy escape that feels a world away from the city streets just beyond its doors. Stepping inside the Winter Lodge at The Montague on the Gardens, you cross an invisible threshold into the Swiss Alps! Styled as a traditional alpine log cabin, the space is softly lit with twinkling fairy lights and warmed by the gentle crackle of a fireplace. The scent of pine and cheese lingers in the air and the atmosphere instantly encourages you to settle in and stay a little longer than planned.
The hotel has created a separate menu for the experience and at the centre of the experience is, of course, the fondue. A dish that feels tailor made for winter. Served bubbling and rich, the cheese blends classic Swiss favourites Gruyère and Vacherin into something deeply comforting and indulgent.
Around the fondue pot, plates are laid with copious amounts of crusty bread, tender potatoes, gherkins and all the traditional accompaniments inviting everyone at the table to dig in and dip generously. As they say, sharing is caring!
The menu also features a range of small plates and charcuterie platters which I always enjoy as a starter to most meals. Fondue is naturally communal and that’s part of its charm. I still remember my very first Fondue in Austria when I was just nine years old, (it was also my very first time skiing), and my amazement at being allowed to eat melted cheese for dinner.
The whole space is so welcoming, we felt right at home and staff made sure we had a constant flow of champagne! My friend and I caught up on a cute table for two, our cheese simmering forever ready for our pauses from conversations to dip in our next bread or potato. Conversation flows easily here, fuelled by good food and the novelty of this festive, alpine inspired feast on the slopes of a luxury ski resort it’s the ultimate ladies who lunch!
The Winter Lodge itself is a balance between intimate and festive. It works just as beautifully for couples seeking a romantic evening as it does for groups of friends or small celebrations, with space for up to 30 guests. Cushioned seating, checked table clothes, skis on the walls and faux furs details create a setting that feels snug and relaxing.
What makes the experience especially appealing is its sense of escapism. While London’s winter can often feel so grey, the Lodge offers a gentler version of the season. It’s a reminder that winter doesn’t always need to be battled, it can also be enjoyed with good company and something delicious bubbling at the centre of the table (which satisfies both my cheese fondue and champagne addiction!).
Running every weekend until January and then daily through to March, The Montague on the Gardens Winter Lodge feels less like a fleeting pop-up and more like a seasonal ritual. Its proof that you don’t need to leave London to find a little winter magic!
Review and Images by Zoe Laing @_zozogram_
Feature image supplied
