Barchick Says

Super cool hotel, check. Stuffed Kangaroo, check. Stuffed cat with parasol, check. Tincture of gunpowder in your cocktail, check. Cute barman in kitsch clothing, check. I could go on for hours. This place rocks before you’ve even had a drink.

This ain’t your average hotel bar, oh no, like everything here its been beautifully thought out and has also won the title of Best Hotel Bar from the 2011 Class Awards. Cue Tony C, one of the best barmen slash cocktail chemists in the world. He’s the brains behind the drinks here, they’re all good, and I promise you will never find drinks like this in a Hilton. The cocktails change seasonally, we were there for the Rhubarb Kir Royal (it’s homemade, ‘cos they make it better than anyone else). We loved the Nettle Gimlet (it doesn’t sting) and the Somerset Sour is like Glastonbury in a glass. The Bloody Marys are mixed with Tony’s lab made Parsley Vodka subbed for the classic horseradish; it works. You can also have it veggie or meaty, get in line Swampy.

Hungry? Well you’re in safe hands to, Michelin starred next door neighbor Bruno is on the case. Share some nibbles, have a Vietnamese grilled squid salad, have some fudge! Up for some fun then hit the games room downstairs, and if you just fancy a cuppa then they’ve got the Rare Tea Lady’s tea, unlike any cup of tea you’ve ever had. Now all you need is a key to a room (and yes, the mini bar is genius).