Discovering The Resident SOHO: A Serene Haven Amidst London’s Vibrant Heart
London. A city that never fails to excite, offering new discoveries with every visit. This trip was primarily for Web Summit 2024, but as a seasoned traveler, I never compromise on my accommodation. My previous London stays in charming areas like Notting Hill and Holborn, while lovely, involved a bit more commuting than I preferred. Especially when you want to dive into everything London offers – record hunting, shopping, art exploration, and maybe even catching a game.
Therefore, “ultimate convenience” became my mantra for this hotel search. Easy access from Heathrow Airport was non-negotiable. Furthermore, I wanted to be based in SOHO, the mecca for my vinyl-collecting passion, specifically near Berwick Street. The perfect solution? Tottenham Court Road station, serviced by the Elizabeth Line and, crucially, equipped with elevators – a lesson learned the hard way on a previous trip.
And then, I found it: The Resident SOHO. It was as if this hotel was tailor-made for my needs. I’m excited to share how this choice elevated my London experience. This isn’t just another hotel review; this is my personal account of uncovering a hidden gem in SOHO, a detailed The Resident SOHO review focusing on its incredible location benefits.
My journey to London this time began with an incredibly fortunate ANA First Class flight from Haneda Airport (I’ll share the details of that very special experience in another article). After landing at Heathrow, I took the Elizabeth Line, arriving at the hotel around 4 PM with surprising ease – and more economically than a taxi, which was a pleasant bonus. Tucked away on Carlisle Street, just a step from SOHO’s main thoroughfares, The Resident SOHO exuded an air of a chic hideaway, beautifully illuminated at night. Check-in was swift, the staff genuinely welcoming. I mentioned I’d be returning after a trip to Lisbon and had booked the same hotel, which they confirmed with a smile. Anticipation was building.
Exceeding Expectations: The Superior Double Room at The Resident SOHO
I had booked a Superior Double Room. The moment I opened the door, I was taken aback. “Is this really a hotel in London, in SOHO?” I thought. The sheer spaciousness was the first of many reasons this hotel comes highly recommended. The clean, sophisticated decor immediately created a calming atmosphere, a welcome respite from a day of travel. Remarkably, the room was incredibly quiet, a stark contrast to the SOHO buzz just outside. It was easy to forget I was in the heart of one of London’s liveliest districts.
The bed was exceptionally comfortable, with soft bedside lamps perfect for unwinding with a book. The view from the bed towards the door further emphasized the room’s generous proportions – ample space even with a large suitcase open. This is a rare luxury in London hotels.
A standout feature was the mini-kitchen. Compact yet brilliantly equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, Nespresso machine, and even crockery. Being able to prepare a hot drink or a light snack in the room after days of dining out was a true blessing. While the closet could have been a touch deeper, it was well-appointed with an iron, ironing board, and a safe – all essentials covered.
The bathroom was equally spacious and spotlessly clean. While there wasn’t a bathtub, the walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead was a delight, offering excellent water pressure. The wide sink area provided plenty of space for toiletries. Every detail at The Resident SOHO spoke of quality and thoughtful design.
Making The Resident SOHO Your Basecamp for SOHO Adventures
One of the most compelling location benefits of this hotel is its “super-prime” position for exploring everything SOHO has to offer. This The Resident SOHO review wouldn’t be complete without highlighting this.
A Vinyl Lover’s Paradise: Legendary Shops Steps Away
SOHO is synonymous with iconic record stores. My beloved Sister Ray and Reckless Records are, quite literally, just across the street. Other legendary spots like Phonica Records, Sounds of the Universe, Third Man Records London, and Rough Trade Vintage are all within easy walking distance. I made it a daily ritual to pop in, always hoping for that next great find.
Fashion, Beauty, and Department Stores at Your Fingertips
Shopping is another major SOHO allure. From the budget-friendly finds at Primark to streetwear giants like Stussy London and Supreme, and high-end select shops such as END. and Aimé Leon Dore, plus sneaker havens like Size?, every taste is catered for. For groceries, Marks & Spencer is a short stroll away on Oxford Street, and Boots pharmacy is conveniently close for toiletries. The elegant Liberty department store is also a pleasant walk away, perfect for Browse.
A Cultural Stroll: Museums and Galleries Within Reach
Sightseeing from The Resident SOHO is refreshingly hassle-free. The British Museum, one of the world’s top three, is a comfortable walk. A slightly longer, but equally enjoyable, stroll takes you to the masterpieces at The National Gallery. The fashion-art nexus of Dover Street Market London and the charming, colorful Neal’s Yard are also easily accessible. While in Neal’s Yard, I highly recommend grabbing a flat white from Monmouth Coffee – a perfect pick-me-up.
SOHO’s Culinary Delights Await
SOHO is a treasure trove for foodies. For authentic French cuisine, try Pierre Victoire Soho. For a great gastropub atmosphere, head to Dean Street Townhouse. And for incredibly popular Indian fare (expect a queue!), Dishoom Carnaby is a must-visit. These are just a few places I personally loved; countless other options abound. The concierge at The Resident SOHO would undoubtedly offer excellent recommendations tailored to your preferences.
The Quintessential Pub Experience
And, of course, it wouldn’t be London without a pub! Just outside the hotel’s entrance, you’ll find Nellie Dean Soho, a lively local favorite. It’s open from midday, making it an easy stop for a casual pint.
Even if it’s crowded inside, don’t worry. Many London pubs allow you to take your beer motivos, enjoying it стоя with the locals outside – a true London experience. I savored a Westway Pale Ale, soaking in the SOHO vibes. Pure bliss.
A Minor Hiccup and a Traveler’s Tip
While my stay at The Resident SOHO was nearly flawless, there’s one crucial tip I learned regarding its excellent location benefits concerning transport. Be aware of potential weekend closures on the Elizabeth Line. On my departure day, Google Maps wasn’t showing the Elizabeth Line. A quick search confirmed it was suspended for the weekend. “You’re kidding me, closing on a weekend?!” I exclaimed (in Japanese, thankfully). I managed to find an alternative route to the airport, but it was an unexpected hurdle. With Tokyo Metro reportedly getting involved in its operation, this might improve, but it’s wise to check the service status in advance if traveling on a weekend. May my little mishap save someone else some stress!
On a positive note, getting an Uber right to the hotel’s doorstep was incredibly convenient for a central London location.
The Resident SOHO Pricing: An Investment in Your London Experience
Now, let’s talk about the cost. Here are the details for my three-night stay:
The Resident SOHO
10 Carlisle Street, London, England, WID 3BR, UK
Check-in: November 8, 2024
Check-out: November 11, 2024
1 room × 3 nights, Superior Double Room
Payment Details:
| Item | Amount |
|————————–|———–|
| Friday, Nov 8 | ¥65,544 |
| Saturday, Nov 9 | ¥74,349 |
| Sunday, Nov 10 | ¥50,946 |
| Taxes and service fees | ¥38,168 |
| Total | ¥229,007 |
(Approx. $1450 USD at current exchange rates, for reader context)
It might not be the cheapest option. However, considering the prime location, the spaciousness, the tranquility, and the impeccable cleanliness, I firmly believe it offers excellent value. If you want to maximize your time and enjoyment in London, this is an investment worth making. I hope this The Resident SOHO review helps with your decision-making.
Final Thoughts: Why The Resident SOHO is a “Super-Highly Recommended” Choice
The Resident SOHO offers a remarkable combination of serene comfort and unbeatable access to the vibrant heart of SOHO. It’s an urban oasis. Whether your passion is records, fashion, art, food, or pubs, this hotel serves as the perfect, stress-free basecamp. The airport access is a dream, the rooms are pristine and generously sized, and the staff are wonderful.
If you’re looking for a London hotel that allows you to be in the thick of the action but also provides a peaceful retreat, The Resident SOHO delivers. I especially recommend it to those focused on SOHO’s cultural experiences and shopping, and anyone valuing a smooth journey from Heathrow via the Elizabeth Line. When I next return to London, this will be my undisputed choice. I sincerely hope you get to experience this gem for yourself.
Official site : https://www.residenthotels.com/soho/
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