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Swissotel The Howard, London

Temple Place
London, England WC2R 2PR
United Kingdom

 
GENERAL INFORMATION :

What to expect: Almost entirely clad in marble, the lobby mixes neo-classical and contemporary decor. Large glass sculptures flank a long, mirrored reception desk, and sitting areas are set off by fluted Doric columns, chrome chandeliers, and vases of orchids. The hotel's riverside location midway between the theater and business districts is ideal for both vacationers and executives.

Amenity highlights: One of the few central London hotels with its own large courtyard garden, the Howard has a stylish restaurant and bar which make the most of this feature. Both open onto a pleasing courtyard with giant yucca plants, a pond, and a trickling fountain. In fine weather, guests may linger over drinks or dinner at tables beneath graceful white parasols.

Insider tip: Inconspicuously tucked away just a half-block from the hotel are the remains of original Londinium Roman baths. Turn right on exiting the hotel and walk up Surrey Street, turning left down Surrey Steps and right into Strand Lane. The 2,000-year-old brickwork can be viewed through a window marked by a City of Westminster sign.

PROPERTY AMINITIES :

Renovated in 2002, the Swissôtel The Howard is one of few central London hotels with its own courtyard garden. It has a fine-dining restaurant and bar, currency exchange, and a business center with high-speed Internet access (fee) and two soundproofed suites of conference rooms.

ROOMS :

Overlooking the Thames, this nine-story hotel offers 189 rooms with river, courtyard, or garden views. Decorated in contemporary style, the rooms feature outsized headboards, chrome accents, plush duvets, desks with easy-access electrical sockets, espresso machines, and books of London photographs. Rooms include high-speed Internet access (fee), bathrobes, designer toiletries, and mini-bars.

DINING :

Jaan - Modern French cuisine with an Indochine accent stars in this elegant restaurant with mirrored columns, abstract contemporary art, and lights hanging from a Rococo-plastered ceiling. Well-spaced tables are graced with orchids and olive green silk-covered chairs. In summer, the seating spills out onto the adjoining courtyard. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Temple Bar - Featuring an eclectic mix of classical and Asian decor, this bar is open from late morning until the early hours. Black-lacquered cabinets house malt whiskies and cigars; both may be sampled in comfortable gray easy chairs. Next to a grand piano, glass doors open onto the quiet courtyard garden