Tucked away behind Sloane Square’s shopping haven, amidst quaint private parks, sits one of the borough’s most lavish hotels – 11 Cadogan Gardens. Comprised of four Victorian townhouses, it was originally built by Lord Chelsea in the late 19th century as part of the prestigious Cadogan Estate, which explains the myriad of corridors, staircases and hallways throughout this luxurious hotel. The property was formerly a private members club, before being converted into a hotel. Due to its prestigious location 11 Cadogan Gardens quickly became a very popular home-away-from-home for venturing Victorian aristocrats, politicians and bon viveurs.

The classy boutique hotel is a proud member of the prestigious Small
Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) group. It’s opulent and decadent with a sense of individuality.

Nestled among the artisanal shops of Chelsea’s Pavilion Road (with direct access from the hotel), Hans’ Bar and Grill will soon be celebrating its first birthday having opened in June 2018. It’s an oasis of calm with botanical-infused space coupled with a touch of minimalism. The new cocktail café and courtyard boasts an effortless luxe feel, making it a perfect spot for quick get-togethers or intimate late-night dinners.

Curated by Head Chef Adam England, the eatery’s menu is rooted in seasonal British produce and is named after the restaurant Hans Sloane, which is credited with bringing cocoa to the UK; unsurprisingly the restaurant’s menu boasts an array of chocolate desserts and signature drinks.

The hotel’s Drawing Room is a very welcoming area for guests. It’s got an eclectic
mix of warmly toned fabrics and light floral-patterned walls, creating a comfortable and cosy atmosphere.

The Library is quite a vibrant space with contemporary furniture and an ornate
antler chandelier with shelves lined with an extensive collection of historic and
antique books, some dating back to the 19th century. If you’re a bibliophile, like me, you will love it.

The Terrace, meanwhile, is a lovely quiet spot to soak up the sunshine with a drink. Celebrities such as Elizabeth Hurley and members of royal families are fans
of this particular enchanting hideaway.

The moody and seductive Chelsea Bar in the main townhouse is a really great
setting to indulge. The house cocktail menu blends traditional favourites with innovative mixes, alongside exclusive vintages, spirits and liquors.

The property’s lavish 1,300 square feet Sloane Suite overlooking Cadogan Gardens epitomises the elegant style and decadence of the hotel experience. Guests who book the Sloane Suite package receive endless special amenities including luxury return car airport transfers, Taittinger Champagne, afternoon tea in-suite, Ormonde Jayne amenities, 11 Cadogan Gardens bathrobes and slippers to keep and much more.

Another of the suites has a private entrance, which is mainly used for high-profile guests
seeking privacy to enter and exit at their leisure without stepping foot in the
public areas.

The lavish Velasquez Suite epitomises elegant British style and is by far the sexiest suite of the property. The distinctive colour palette of dramatic red and black defines the romantic interior of this signature suite.

The ‘Alice in Wonderland-esque’ Mirror Room is popular with guests to capture memorable pictures, but not many people know that it also doubles up as a secret entrance to two Cadogan suites.

Every year in May for Chelsea in Bloom, the property’s exterior adopts floral displays. In 2018, the hotel won Gold for their “Hippy Fabulous” extravaganza by acclaimed florist Larry Walshe; a design inspired by carefree days spent running through wildflower fields. It’s this mix of elegance, bohemia and British luxury that makes 11 Cadogan Gardens such a fascinating and charming London hotel that’s been a Knightsbridge favourite for years and remains an important part of Kensington and Chelsea to this day.

For more information visit www.11cadogangardens.com