THE GYLE HOTEL: LONDON STAYCATION

There's something extremely satisfying about checking in to a hotel for a holiday, or a mini break, and last week I headed to the The Gyle Hotel in Kings Cross for a well needed staycation evening. Due to the global situation, I've only managed to get away once this year, so welcomed the well needed escape with open arms. I packed a bag, put my out of office on and jumped on the tube to the boutique 5-star london townhouse.

[gifted stay] The hotel is located in a row of heritage-listed Victorian townhouses, built in 1850 on Argyle Square, in the colourful borough of Camden. Argyle Square has seen curious events in its history, from being London’s largest ash dump in 1831 to getting bombed in the 1941 Blitz. There are just 33 rooms, so they have a cosy community of original style rooms, perfect for people seeking a personalised travel experience. Each of the spaces are different to the next, but designed with a common thematic scheme. To make life simple, there are six categories of accommodation to choose, from ‘Tiny King’ to ‘Junior Suite’.

The interior design reflects a private residence that has stood here for over 170 years, evolving with each new generation. So in every room, you will find solid oak flooring, vintage mirrors, fluted glass, bespoke English joinery, tactile Scottish textiles, crisp comfy bedding, upholstered headboard with Argyle pattern stitching, all brought together in an elegant palette of greys, charcoal, black and pewter with the occasional moss green accent. Let's not forget the hotel's mascot 'Archie', the adorable black scottie dog, who has his image all over the place!

I was impressed before I'd even arrived with a great customer service team and their keyless entry with an app on your phone. This was easy to set up and meant that the check in process was easy to navigate as your room number was issued prior to arriving, and there wasn't any waiting around. Simply open the 'key' screen and hold it near the reader on the front door, or your room door, and you're let in! I stayed in room '20' one of their Featured King with Vaulted Bathroom options. Prices for this type start at £199 per night. 

I found the bed extremely comfy and the overall design details of the room were faultless, but the main focus of this room type for me was the amazing bath tub. Since this stay was for me to unwind and switch off, I did just that by having not one but two baths in the huge sunken tub. I also want to comment on how clean the hotel was, especially in a time where this matters more than ever. With contactless check in, mask and social distancing rules in place whilst in the communal areas and bar, and a spotless room, they've really thought about making sure each of the guests are protected as much a possible with a strong covid-19 action plan. I'll definitely be heading back and have already suggested The Gyle to a number of friends and family.