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Canopy by Hilton London City

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FERRARI ROMA

FERRARI ROMA

Canopy by Hilton London City

BACKGROUND Hot o the heels of Canopy by Hilton openings in Paris and Madrid in 2021, this London City property, with 340 rooms, launched in October. Canopy is Hilton’s first eco-conscious lifestyle brand, designed as a neighbourhood spot where locals and guests can hang out. For sustainable and economic benefit, two of the hotel’s three buildings have been reused in construction, while a green roof features solar panels and helps with passive heating. There are 31 Canopy properties globally with 29 in development.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? There’s a distinct design edge. The exterior is modern and striking and as you step inside, there are quirky and imaginative nods to the East End, including its textile and arts scene. The brand’s mission to provide authentic spaces that are an extension to the neighbourhood shines here. An expansive lobby with bar and seating is inviting, and there are casual co-working areas that are private and social at the same time. The check-in was fast and friendly, with information on the hotel, including its design quirks and eco-conscious touches, provided.

WHERE IS IT? Set within the multimillion-pound Minories development, close to Aldgate station and withing walking distance of Liverpool Street and Fenchurch Street stations. For business, the City of London is minutes away, and for leisure, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the Thames are just up the road. Hip hangouts including Shoreditch are nearby.

It’s comfortable and convenient with a real sense of place

ROOMS I loved this room due to the design and thoughtful touches. It was spacious and modern with a comfy king bed, cosy sofa with furry throw and co ee table, the most gigantic in-room TV I’ve ever encountered, plus all the practical stu – tea, co ee, iron and ironing board, mini bar, a Nespresso, tea, and instead of bottled

BEST FOR Business or leisure

DON’T MISS Dinner at Penny Squares

PRICE From £249 ($334)

CONTACT 11-15 Minories, London; hilton.com

water, a carafe that you fill at the mineral water station on the corridor. There was a huge walk-in shower and the bathroom door doubled up as a huge mirror. There were robes and slipper socks and plenty of electrical sockets to plug in devices.

FOOD AND DRINK Penny Squares is currently East London’s best-kept dining secret, but I hope it doesn’t stay a secret for long because the chef here is outstanding. East End inspired dishes (Arabic and Jewish flavours) made from local, sustainable ingredients were superb and very moorish. There are dips to die for, small plates with punch, including beef cheek with zaatar and a crispy tempura-style cauliflower and stunning mains, with my favourite, the Tamarind cod. For breakfast, order poached eggs – the best I’ve had at any hotel – plus there is a hot and cold bu et. Other outlets including the Freedom Café, named after Freedom Press Publishing House in Whitechapel High Street, for drinks, snacks and cocktails in a chilled out social space that blends into the lobby. The hotel’s rooftop terrace, Florattica, is opening soon, promising uninterrupted views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the City of London.

BUSINESS Flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces including Dunstan Den, a naturally lit room that can accommodate up to 40 guests, plus semi-private dining at the Retreat and Penny Squares.

LEISURE A 24-hour fitness centre with cardio and strength equipment and complimentary Canopy bikes to explore the area.

VERDICT I couldn’t fault this property. It’s comfortable and convenient with a real sense of place and has all the facilities you need for a great business o leisure stay. The service stands out – sta are friendly and very natural. If you fancy a chat, they will be up for it. It really does feel like you are part of the neighbourhood, so a business stay would be fun too. Gemma Greenwood

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