We check into the LaLiT London – once a school for boys, now a luxury hotel brimming with Indian charm and hospitality.
The low-down
A former Victorian grammar school, this magnificent red-brick building serves as a 70-room five-star hotel run by one of India’s biggest luxury hotel chains.
A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels, the family-run LaLit places great importance on those ‘little touches’ and delivering a personalised service. It’s everything you want from a boutique hotel – and more.
London Bridge station is around 10 minutes away by foot, where you’ll find the famous Borough market – a foodie’s playground. There’s the Shard nearby, too, and the Thames, home to hotspots like London Dungeons and HMS Belfast.
There’s a fabulous Indian restaurant in the original hall where schoolboys once sat down for lunch. Plus, there is an outdoor terrace for cocktails and Shisha and two indoor bars.
First impressions
The LaLiT is brimming with charm. Its décor fuses British opulence with Indian heritage. Reminiscent of an Indian palace, the hotel is stylishly dressed with original artwork and stone sculptures imported from India. Golden star lanterns hang from the ceilings, and stunning tapestries line the walls.
The building has been lovingly restored so as not to lose its original character. The stucco ceilings, original fireplaces and dark oak panelling create a feeling of grandeur.
The staff wear Indian attire and offer a traditional greeting – the ‘namaskar’ – two palms together before the face with a bow, so there’s a sense of homeliness as soon as you arrive.
Rooms and suites
Most of the 70 rooms were original classrooms and are named as such. Some feature views of The Shard.
Décor is modern minimalist with traditional soft furnishings. The clean white walls are decorated with tapestries and artwork, and each of the beds features hand-embroidered silk headboards.
No expense has been spared when it comes to technology. The marble floors are temperature-controlled, TVs are high-tech, and the toilets are from the future, with various settings. There’s a mini fridge and a Nespresso machine, too.
You’ll find artisan goodies in your room, including posh Indian tonic water and traditional sweets. Anything else you need is a phone call away, as room service is 24 hours.
Pan-Indian dining at LaLiT London
The Grade II listed assembly hall is home to the hotel’s Indian restaurant, Baluchi.
The space is incredible – one of the most visually stunning in London. Its vaulted ceiling sports three hand-crafted chandeliers, and silk tapestries hang from the royal blue walls.
Executive Chef Santosh Shah oversees a team of 20 and tries to spend as much time on the restaurant floor as possible, going above and beyond for his guests. A former Cinnamon Kitchen head chef, he previously worked under Vivek Singh, one of the UK’s most respected modern Indian chefs.
Baluchi’s menu showcases a mix of dishes from across India’s foodie regions, using the very best organic ingredients. The flavours are as authentic as can be, while the execution is modern.
The restaurant also boasts a ‘Naan’ery’ (a bread bar) where you can enjoy traditional naans and rotis paired with exquisite wines. The boss himself also hosts bread-making workshops there.
Papadums came first, along with the tastiest homemade chutney I’ve probably ever eaten. It highlighted just how many Indian restaurants take theirs from a jar.
A mixed starter took my taste buds to another place. Beautifully plated and lovingly prepared, it featured a mix of north and south Indian bites, including a sublime chicken tikka infused with lime and a meaty monkfish with spiced coriander yoghurt.
A trio of sublime curries came next. A tender lamb biryani ticked all the boxes, while the ginger chicken was satisfyingly dense and aromatic, with just the right level of spice. Naans were 10/10 – I had to stop myself from finishing the entire basket.
Anything else?
There’s a mini spa specialising in herbal therapies and a 24-7 gym. Traditional chai afternoon tea is served in the gallery, overlooking the grand hall, and for cocktails, there’s the modern-looking Teacher’s Room or the opulent Headmaster’s Room. Don’t skip the authentic Indian breakfast – and another chance to dine in the beautiful hall.
The LaLit London– Where and How
The LaLit London is located at 181 Tooley Street, London SE12JR. For bookings or to find out more, visit www.thelalit.com.
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