Hotel Review: Sofitel London St James

There’s no denying the Sydney-to-London journey is enough to exhaust even the most seasoned traveller but you would be hard-pressed not to find a fresh burst of energy if your next stop after Heathrow is of the five-star variety.

Which is exactly the fortunate position Mr LML and I find ourselves in as we jump off the tube at Piccadilly Circus and make the short walk to Waterloo Place, home to Sofitel St James London.

In a long-haul-flight daze, we take in our luxury surroundings which are pretty much as far away as possible from the economy seats we’d called home for the past day or so.

The historic building combines traditional British design with Sofitel brand signature French touches.

While our room isn’t available just yet, we take up the offer of breakfast. Settled in with tea and coffee, we start to feel human again. And while anything would taste good compared to plane food, my subsequent brekkie outings during the rest of our stay confirm this hotel is worthy of the five-star tag.

Room ready, a quick peek (quick so we weren’t tempted to ‘rest our eyes’ on the inviting bed!) shows the elegant styling continue beyond the lobby and hallways into the relatively spacious suite. Little touches like old-school wallpaper, ultra-fluffy bathrobes, free wi-fi and marble finishes in the bathroom (along with the always desired separate shower and bath set-up) are noticed and appreciated.

Eager to keep jetlag at bay, we hit the street. The hotel’s convenient West End location lends itself to easy exploring. We stroll, then do what every tourist should do to get their bearings in a new city, jump on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

Back at the hotel, afternoon tea at The Rose Lounge is too tempting to pass up. The informal yet elegant space is part library, part fancy lounge room and the sound of a harp (the real-deal played to perfection, not just a recording!) gives the room a feeling of relaxed sophistication.

And before we head out for dinner it would be rude not to sample the St James Bar, tucked discreetly next to the dining area and ideal for an intimate beverage with your travelling companion. I’ll drink to that!

What are your top tips for avoiding jetlag? Share with us in the comments!

• Book a stay at the Sofitel St James
• Fly to London