Rosewood London: A Hotel Fit For Citizen Kane

By: Norah Bradford

In the celluloid classic Orson Welles character's final word "Rosebud" leads to a chase for meaning of the final utterance of the reclusive media mogul. Whilst the original pertains to a favourite childhood toy, a remake may well have Kane longing for a stay at the luxurious recently opened Rosewood London hotel.

Located in High Holborn you may at first think of this as a purely business locale in which to stay. However London's neighbourhoods are very quickly changing and High Holborn has green leafy spaces beloved of its local community and a rapidly evolving social life to match.

Rosewood London has some 262 rooms of which over forty are suites – and many unique rooms at that. Some suites come with a butler service, providing guests with a knowledgeable expert on the facilities both in the hotel and locally to help make a stay memorable. Highlights of the room amenities include Czech & Speake toiletries, Nespresso coffee machines, luxurious linens and very comfortable beds.Dining and entertaining at Rosewood London is exquisitely served by restaurant Holborn Dining Room and Scarfes Bar. 

The latter is named for a famous British political cartoonist whose work may be best remembered in the opening sequence of the comedy Yes Minister and Yes Prime Minister – Margaret Thatcher's favourite television show. The mixology on offer at the bar is excellent with some very interesting libations on offer including the Humidor (Whisky, Port, Absinthe) or Diplomatic Immunity (Rum, ginger, licorice bitters) – which are a must-try experience.

Dining at the Holborn Dining Room provides a very social modern brasserie style experience familiar to globetrotters who are fans of the Balthazar / Wolseley school of dining. The menu, comprised of traditional British dishes made from the finest locally sourced ingredients, is divided into eight sections: Bar Snacks, Cold Counter, Hot Counter, Grill, English Kitchen, Sides, Sandwiches and Afters. 

The establishment has both a spa and fitness suite. The Sense Spa has a very strong Zen vibe and a wide range of treatments including the ability to personalize or mixand- match treatments to suit your needs.

For more information: rosewoodhotels.com/london