At the edge of Hyde Park sits Bulgari Hotel London, and I was invited to celebrate its tenth anniversary with a lovely two-night stay to sample their afternoon tea and relax in the spa. What an experience it was!
Smart doormen in suits and hats greeted me as I entered the building – the site of an old silversmith – but super stylish and modern now. To mark its tenth birthday, the hotel commissioned artist Yinka Ilori to create a unique artwork, as well as reimagining the afternoon tea, which I will be sampling later.
Our Suite at the Bulgari Hotel London
Whisked to our suite in clouds of signature Bulgari scent, the décor was rich and inviting; mahogany floors and beautiful floral displays.
I was staying in The Bulgari Suite, which, once I entered, would have been happy never checking out of! Books were positioned, ready to snuggle up and read, a dining room was prepared for ten guests at any moment, and there was a handwritten card accompanying some delicious pastries.
Sitting on the desk were also some personalised business cards for me, in case I fancied doing business, directing clients to my suite here! There was also an extra treat waiting for me – a dressing gown and slippers, with some lotion and a note from the spa, “We look forward to welcoming you!”. A lovely welcome.
State-of-the-art, fully equipped kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, stunning desk area with concealed plug sockets – all incredibly pleasing – with every amenity you could imagine, including weights and a yoga mat, ready for morning sun salutations. And then the bedroom – with monogrammed headboard and grey silk, beautiful to the touch, the high bed looked fit for a princess.
The bathroom was similarly luxurious, with Bulgari toiletries just encouraging you to stop and relax for a while in the steam shower.
The Yinka Ilori Afternoon Tea at the Bulgari Hotel
Starting at £95, the afternoon tea is a true luxury. A comprehensive tea menu ranges from Earl Grey to Yunnan Golden Snail and everything in between. A bright and punchy menu matched an equally brilliant cake stand, holding beautiful delicacies bursting with colour and a tea stand to match.
And what a selection! There were many sandwiches, from Scottish salmon on cocoa and malt bread to egg, truffle and chive on spinach bread. An incredible pistachio creation followed this with almond, tonka and strawberry compote and mousse, as well as a hazelnut praline delicacy, amongst other delicious sweet treats.
There was more to come, with a more traditional serving of scones, Cornish clotted cream ice cream and jam. We sat by the fire on the softest chairs, enjoying our tea, perfect for a chilly autumn afternoon.
The Bulgari Spa
Six floors down, we reached the spa, with a welcoming reception, a stunning clear pool – the longest in London – and private white cabanas for ultimate relaxation. Gold mosaic tiles decorated the jacuzzi, which can be tailored to your preferences at the touch of a button!
After a dip in the pool, I had a full body massage with the lovely Delilah – the sweetest, welcoming lady who noticed where I was holding tension in my body and gave me the best advice afterwards for reducing stress. Peppermint tea and relaxation in the lounge afterwards made for the most relaxing afternoon.
Dining at Bulgari Hotel London
Staying there for two nights, we were lucky enough to sample the menus from both the Bulgari Lounge and Sette restaurant, as well as gorgeous breakfasts of omelettes and continental treats in Sette as well. They even remembered how I liked my coffee!
