London by ME: The Cultural Guide

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nnovative, stylish and relentlessly creative—London is a cultural brand all of its own. It enlivens you with its chaotic edge and inspires with its trailblazing fashion, art, design and architecture. So we can’t think of any better base from which to explore this cultural powerhouse than the ME London Hotel. Perched in the city’s cultural heart, this is not your usual hotel. With its striking avant-garde design, hi-tech comforts and exceptional tailored service, ME London mirrors the creativity and pace of the city.

Design and fashion is part of its DNA, and with its chic spaces and enviable social calendar, ME London is all of the capital’s best bits in microcosm.

In this guide we’ll take you step-by-step on a journey from your hotel room to the city and beyond. Whether you choose to venture five miles or five minutes away, are visiting for work or play, we’ll show you that with ME London as your urban bolthole, you’ll be able to get your dose of the artistic draws, gourmet delights and infectious energy that has made London one of the world’s greatest cities.

Feeling inspired? Visit blacktomato.com to plan your trip.

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Champagne lounges, gourmet restaurants and slick rooftop bars— we don’t blame you if you never want to leave your hotel. Whatever the occasion, ME London has a space to create the mood to match.

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ALL ABOUT ME London is a city well-versed in luxury. Home to royalty, celebrities, eccentrics and artists, it can cater for all tastes and demands. So it goes without saying that you’ll want to stay somewhere that knows how to give you the lux treatment. Well, at ME London, it’s all about you.

They call it Aura. That rare feeling of indulgence that comes with a 24 hour service that is completely tailored to your ever need or desire. Here are our favourite ways that ME London excels at London living.

H I -T E C H C O M F O R T S A cutting-edge city deserves cutting-edge comforts and ME London is at the forefront of the city’s hotel scene. Just step into the hotel’s cathedral-like 9-storey atrium crafted by world-renowned architects Foster and Partners, and you know you’re surrounded by state-of-the-art design. But what you don’t know is that even the lighting and fragranced air has been carefully curated to ease and unwind. This hotel is a masterclass in urban modernity.

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S E R V I C E T H AT D O E S N ’ T S L E E P When you’re exploring a city that has 24/7 status, you need a base that will be open all hours too. At ME London, you’ll always find someone to give you the celebrity treatment, whether it’s that shirt you need ironed for that 7am meeting or a late night snack. Even the gym is open 24hrs for those whose body is their temple.

TA I LO R E D TO Y O U Travelling is a personal business. We all have our own special preferences and quirks. But at ME London you’ll have expert staff with insider knowledge to take care of every detail. Don’t have time to book that hot new restaurant? Just ask the hotel team to book it for you. And if you always travel with your pet?

Then not to worry, they’ll also get the VIP treatment. This is how you do lux London living.

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THE BUSINESS MOMENT For the entrepreneurial mind looking to impress clients or colleagues then beeline to one of ME London’s many slick eateries. Whether a morning meeting over an artisanal coffee in the chic Marconi Lounge, an elegant working lunch of seasonal fare in the jaw-dropping Radio Rooftop, or a chic space for that all-important presentation—you’re spoilt for choice at ME London.

THE ‘I DO’ MOMENT London is all about rejecting convention so if you’re looking for a contemporary venue to turn heads on your special day then it’s hard to beat the style and sophistication that comes with a wedding at a design hotel. Whether immense or intimate ME London has a chic space to match and an expert team at the ready to ensure your big day runs smoothly.

T H E PA R T Y M O M E N T Nowhere does exclusive parties quite like London, and you’ll have everything you need for a night to remember at ME London. Carnivores can channel New York chic dining on marbled meats in the iconic STK LONDON and every night owl should end at the Radio Rooftop. There you’ll have stunning panoramic views of the city’s ever-evolving skyline as your backdrop to an evening of exquisite cocktails, gourmet light bites and a DJ playing all the right tunes.

GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP Every Londoner needs their beauty sleep. And combining stateof-the-art technology with sleek modern design, every one of ME London’s 157 Guestrooms and Suites is a lesson in urban chic. But it is ME London’s attention to detail that ultimately makes for the perfect night’s sleep. From their design-led furnishings to the atmospheric light controls, they’ve got all the bases (and senses) covered.

O U R TO P S U I T E We’ve seen a lot of impressive rooms, but nothing could quite rival the style and design flair that greet you with the Suite ME Penthouse. Equipped with dining room, living room, over-sized private balcony and more, this double storey slice of heaven comes with direct access to the Radio Rooftop and panoramic city views through its top glass dome making it by far and away ME London’s most sought after room.

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You don’t have to venture far to soak up the culture and vibrancy that London has to offer. From award-winning art galleries and West End theatres to bustling markets and architectural treasures, ME London Hotel is conveniently moments away from the capital’s action and attractions. Just step outside your door to start exploring…

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T H E C O U R TA U L D G A L L E R Y Labelled as London’s most prestigious art gallery, the Courtauld Gallery is home to some of the county’s most iconic pieces, spanning across centuries. Continually inspiring its visitors with its 7,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures, the gallery is a landmark to British, as well as European, artistic talent.

A L D W Y C H T H E AT R E At ME London, you’ll be waking up in the heart of London’s theatreland with some of the city’s biggest shows on your doorstep. The Aldwych Theatre has become a popular venue choice for some of the city’s most renowned musical productions including Fame and the Olivier award-winning Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Just pop across the street to catch a show.

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R O YA L O P E R A H O U S E Hailed as one of the world’s leading opera houses, this London landmark should be high on anyone’s London agenda. Expect stirring Royal Ballet and musical performances to find their way to the stage of this Grade I listed building.

SOMERSET HOUSE Considered a British architectural treasure, you can’t miss this Grade I 17th century palace standing directly opposite to ME London Hotel. As well as a monument to iconic Tudor design, it’s also a hub of arts and activity. It’s grand design and esteemed events calendar lures in visitors from far and wide across the globe.

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TEMPLE CHURCH Steeped in rich history dating back to the legendary 12th century Knights Templar, Temple Church is a hidden cultural gem. Found nestled between the bright lights of the West End, this striking religious house is a pocket of quiet architectural beauty just moments from ME London.

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A city full of culture, history and surprises is waiting for you right here on ME London Hotel’s front doorstep. So get your coat because it’s time to take a stroll around the city’s bustling theatre-land and the iconic Thames waterfront.

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S H A F T E S B U R Y T H E AT R E THE YOUNG VIC Sister to the famously first born ‘Old Vic’ theatre, the Young Vic just south of the river is known for the cultivation of new theatrical talent and its innovative twists on classic plays. This hugely popular theatre has been the birth place of a number of big stage stars, as well as being graced by some of the most renowned names in the business. Just 20 minutes from ME London, cultural enlightenment is basically guaranteed.

Since the early 20th century this iconic theatre has hosted some of the globe’s most beloved performances, from West Side Story to Rent, meaning you can expect to see some of the most talked about shows performed by the hottest talent in this, London’s largest independent theatre.

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An oasis of open-air calm above the busy and bustling streets of the West End, ME London’s Radio rooftop is always a good bet for a post-theatre tipple. Sip on the expertly crafted cocktails smug in the knowledge that your room is just steps away.

Blink and you might miss the redwashed door of this favourite cocktail hangout in the midst of Chinatown’s bustle. But while outside may be hectic, inside is a masterclass in town house Parisian cool with, as the name suggests, inventive and suave cocktails to match.

Another hard-to-find door, keep your eyes peeled for the blindfolded pig to enter this speakeasy-style bar. You’ll be rewarded with cocktail concoctions masterminded by World Class UK bartender of the year Gareth Evans, served alongside some delicious bites and jars of snacks.

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Image: Morley von Sternberg

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Considered one of London’s most popular visual arts centres, this riverside hotspot is a hub of creativity and entertainment, hosting anything from dance performances in the Royal Festival Hall, to spoken word recitals in the Poetry Library and art exhibitions in the Hayward Gallery.

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GORDON’S WINE BAR One for the wine lovers—this intimate wine bar hidden within the stone arch beneath Embankment station is a London institution. Candles flicker against the bare brick walls and glasses click with the fine selection of red, white and sparkling vintages.

B F I T H E AT R E The British Film Institute’s flagship, four-screen venue is a London cinematic landmark. Housing the largest film archive in the country, the BFI undoubtedly leads the way in cinema, showcasing the country’s biggest indie films and classics, as well as screening some of the finest global language films.

Feeling inspired? Visit blacktomato.com to plan your trip.

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London is a puzzle of unique neighbourhoods, all of which come with their own personalities, and all of which are studded with iconic landmarks. So if you’re looking to explore all the city has to offer, hail a cab and get exploring some of London’s hottest hangouts further afield.

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Spend the day like a royal roaming around some of the 775 rooms in London’s number one postcode. Home to the royal family for nearly two hundred years, Buckingham Palace boasts perfectly manicured gardens, dozens of stately rooms and some of the country’s finest artworks.

WESTMINSTER ABBEY A monument that has played a role within church and state for more than seven hundred years, this incredible abbey has witnessed more than 16 royal weddings, 38 coronations and 21 imperial burials, making it a pillar of British history and culture.

BIG BEN Standing proud along the banks of the River Thames, this is one of London’s most recognised landmarks. Named after the enormous bell inside of its tower, this beloved clock has successfully kept time since 1859. For the best Instagramworthy shot, be sure to head to Westminster Bridge.

C R E AT I V E Q U A R T E R S HACKNEY Hackney is now labelled as one of London’s most fashionable boroughs, boasting quirky cocktail bars, cosy gastro pubs, hip art galleries and quaint artisanal food markets. This North-East neighbourhood makes a nice alternative to the capital’s central and busier quarters.

LN-CC Don’t let the dreary office-block exterior fool you, because behind this façade is the incredibly trendy (and by appointment only) LN-CC clothes store-cum-bar and club, where you can spend your time rifling through designer brands, vinyl, books and more.

SOHO Neighbour to London’s Chinatown and home of it’s theatreland, Soho is a district buzzing with bars, pubs, and late night venues. Brimming with comedy clubs and jazz lounges, Soho’s streets are always alive with those in search of entertainment.

L I B E R T Y LO N D O N Tucked away from Oxford Street’s main drag, at this quintessentially British design temple you can pick up fragrances, jewellery, furnishings and grab an afternoon tea.

PECKHAM London’s newest hipster district, Peckham Rye, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines and characters. Home to a host of young and creative individuals, it has become the birthplace to a mix-match of restaurants, rooftop bars and more. Head to Frank’s bar in summer for rooftop Negronis and check out The Bussey Building’s events calendar.

THREADS Look the part with help from Tara Postma and her vintage clothing (and homewares) store; Threads. A mixture of vintage labels and hand-made pieces, Threads is the perfect place to nail the retro wardrobe.

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London may be Britain’s cultural nerve center, but there are plenty of cities and towns each with their own cultural riches to discover, all within easy reach from your central location at ME London Hotel. And if you’re in need of some respite from the urban jungle, we’ve also picked out some of our favourite ways to get a taste of the countryside in the city’s green fringes and beyond.

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COUNTRY CHIC R I C H M O N D PA R K Stretching over 2,500 acres, Richmond is the largest of London’s royal parks. Home to hundreds of roaming deer and boasting stunning views across the city, this vast lush expanse makes for the perfect rural oasis away from London’s crowded streets.

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B O AT I N G O N T H E R I V E R T H A M E S Take to the water and see the capital from a new perspective.

Choose from rowing or motor boats and glide down the River Thames as you pass by the likes of Windsor castle and Hampton Court Palace, making pit-stops at charming bankside pubs along the way.

A S C OT R A C E C O U R S E Since 1711 Ascot has been host to the country’s most anticipated horse race (and social soirée) of the year.

Attended by royals, horse-enthusiasts and the public, Ascot has become the most fashionable sporting event for Londoners and visitors alike, drawing in some of the capital’s best dressed individuals.

D AY E S C A P E S M A R G AT E This tiny coastal town has been hailed as ‘Shoreditch-on-sea’ due to its recent influx of London creative types setting up shop and reviving its seaside cool.

It’s recognised as an artist’s haven with previous residents including Tracy Emin and J.W. Turner. Tour the ice cream parlours and take in the fresh sea air along the Victorian seafront and duck into the retro boutiques and antiques shops scattered within the cobbled Old Town. Don’t miss the Turner Contemporary art gallery which cuts a sharp silhouette along the harbour pier.

B R I S TO L The home of the eminent street artist Banksy, Bristol has become a stronghold for a vibrant artistic and musical community that offers world-class museums and galleries alongside plenty of urban cultural grit. Beeline to Stokes Croft or Dean Lane Skatepark to view its renowned graffitiflooded walls before picking up one-of-a-kind finds in its independent boutiques and testing out the music scene.

If you’re into architecture, take a stroll past the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a model of great British engineering designed by Brunel himself.

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OXFORD If you’re looking for a classic cultural escape, then this grande dame university city is a gem of picturesque medieval churches and ivy-covered libraries that’s a completely different feel to London’s cultural buzz. In this sophisticated city you can lose yourself in history within a maze of cobbled lanes or grab a punt and drift through serene waterways. Make sure to pit-stop at one of its old, cozy pubs and watch students cycling and hurrying around in their flowing university gowns.

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T H E C O U R T A U L D G A L L E R Y - Somerset House, 150 Strand, London WC2R 0RN H AY WA R D G A L L E R Y - Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX A L D W Y C H T H E A T R E - 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF R O Y A L O P E R A H O U S E - Bow St, London WC2E 9DD S O M E R S E T H O U S E - Strand, London WC2R 1LA T E M P L E C H U R C H - Temple, London EC4Y 7BB

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B U C K I N G H A M PA L A C E - London SW1A 1AA B I G B E N – Palace of Westminster, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA W E S T M I N S T E R A B B E Y - 20 Deans Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA L L- C C H A C K N E Y - Late Night Chameleon Cafe, 18-24 Shacklewell Ln, London E8 2EZ T H R E A D S - 186 Bellenden Road, London, SE15 4BW L I B E R T Y L O N D O N - Regent St, Carnaby, London W1B 5AH

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T H E Y O U N G V I C - 66 The Cut, Lambeth, London SE1 8LZ S H A F T E S B U R Y T H E A T R E - 210 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8DP E X P E R I M E N T A L C O C K T A I L C L U B - 13a Gerrard St, London W1D 5PS T H E B L I N D P I G A T S O C I A L E A T I N G H O U S E - 58 Poland St, Soho, London W1F 7NS S O U T H B A N K C E N T R E - Belvedere Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 8XX G O R D O N ’ S W I N E B A R - 47 Villiers St, London WC2N 6NE B F I T H E A T R E - South Block, Belvedere Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 8XT

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R I C H M O N D PA R K - Richmond TW10 5HZ A S C O T R A C E C O U R S E - High St, Ascot SL5 7JX W I N D S O R C A S T L E - Windsor SL4 1NJ H A M P T O N C O U R T PA L A C E - Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU Feeling inspired? Visit blacktomato.com to plan your trip.