Trifter

NORTH AND SOUTH: TWO LONDON HOTELS. TWO of the London hotels that I like are at opposite ends of the city. The Fox and Anchor is in Smithfield while the Pelham stands at South Kensington. The Fox and Anchor is an Edwardian gem with its decorative tile facade and tradition interior of comfortable snugs, zinc bar and wood panelling. It conceals a hidden wealth of history. A recent refurbishment, which provided six luxury bedroom suites on the upper floors, has fortunately not taken away any of its charms. The restorers even left the original leaded windows in place. It was originally the type of pub where Smithfield porters would have slaked their thirsts, but now it has gone rather upmarket. The rooms are large with absolutely massive beds and the bathrooms have large cast-iron baths with a gentleman’s bath bridge which contains a shaving mirror, walk-in showers, copper basins and Victorian toilets. There is always an ample supply of toiletries. A private snug, the Fox’s Den is an ideal place to sample the menu of this renowned gastro-pub. The Fox and Anchor can be contacted on 08453 476 100. The Pelham at 15 Cromwell Place is an elegant town house with 53 bedrooms. It has a grand entrance, but still offers a feeling of being discrete. Every room is individually decorated and has a well-stocked mini-bar. There is the luxurious drawing room, while the library, panelled in mahogany, offers an open fireplace with oodles of newspapers and magazines. The Pelham has Wi-Fi throughout the building. Guests have 24 hour access to the gym, which is equipped with cardiovascular apparatus and free weights. A basement restaurant, Bistro, serves the most delicious meals. The Pelham is close to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert, top shops and the Royal Albert Hall. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are both nearby and the Pelham can be contacted on 020 7589 8288.