Heavenly Hari – a perfect London retreat

Planning a trip to London for bridal shopping or pampering? Look no further, for five-star boutique hotel The Hari is ideally located for London shopping, shows and sights – and a wonderfully welcoming base to rediscover the pleasures of a capital weekend

Words: Sandy Cadiz-Smith

The Hari stands out as a beacon of modern luxury – and this is some accolade in a city full of fabulous hotels. What it also offers is something a bit different. Imagine an urban oasis set among the sweeping crescents and majestic mansions of Belgravia.

Tucked away in an understatedly British neighbourhood, overlooking a leafy London square, this urban retreat is conveniently close to many of London’s iconic shops, restaurants and attractions including Harrods, Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and the Royal Albert Hall. Yet somehow it also feels like it’s enclosed in its very own bubble of magical tranquility. We can’t think of a better base for a weekend’s shopping and catching up with friends.

The Hari couldn’t be more conveniently located – and the service is superb

A bubble of happiness is what we find as soon as we step through the doors into the loft-style lobby. Everything about The Hari is a feast for the senses. The inspired vision of designer Tara Bernerd, the interiors with their sandblasted brick walls, grey oak flooring and mix of contemporary and antique furniture are adorned with an eclectic array of pictures and artworks – including some extraordinary installations.

Starting in the welcoming and open loft-feel lobby with its beautiful fireplace, there’s a sweeping staircase leading up to a mezzanine-style lounge. You’ll find a cosy library of books which guests are welcome to dip into and borrow from (and are also encouraged to donate their own gripping reads). Hari Bar already feels like a classic London meeting point, with lots of tempting nooks for lazy afternoons or discreet assignations. This is undoubtedly a place where you can get lost in time catching up on gossip with old friends and enjoying the moment. Well, we did.

Upstairs the all-weather (there’s a sliding roof) alfresco Garden Terrace is a stylish spot for Italian-inspired food with its all-day menu, and there’s also an impressive cocktail menu. There’s certainly some exceptional food to be eaten here – downstairs Il Pampero has a traditional Italian menu plus an impressive wine list and more irresistible signature cocktails. It’s also the spot where residents can bag a window seat for a leisurely and satisfying breakfast and watch the world go by.

Hari Bar already feels like a classic spot for a capital evening of catching up and cocktails

It’s when are shown to our room that we discover Hari heaven – and understand why so many London visitors are choosing this as their capital base. Our Studio King Suite offers the perfect combination of elegance and comfort – so much so we could happily stay put. Kingsize bed, crisp linen and bespoke furniture in tactile velvets and regal berry shades. And the bathroom of your dreams after a hard day’s shopping and dining – created from stunning white Arabescato marble with a huge walk-in rainforest shower, the deepest of baths set in a bay window overlooking the square, the plushest of towels and Noble Isle bath products.

When the sunlight streams in through that window in the morning it really does feel like the very best home from home in London. As you’d expect there is also every tech convenience if you really can’t be bothered to venture out or just want some chill time.

Our stay is made all the more memorable by the superb service here. General Manager Andrew Coney has imbued his ethos of the highest standards of courtesy and efficiency in every interaction and hotel facility. I’ve never experienced such a warm welcome, so many smiling faces or such well-informed staff. Nothing is too much trouble and no request feels too big or too awkward – probably because for the team at The Hari it isn’t.

We leave refreshed, restored and loving this indulgent return to the best of London. That’s what happens when you check in to heaven – unadulterated luxury on tap in the most discreet and elegant quarter of this vibrant city.