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 Globe Theatre, the design-led hotel is 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 penthouse apartment, which boasts its own private roof terrace, a 100 sqm 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.
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 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, 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.