Battersea Power Station feels a bit like leaving Real London to go to a sort of made up place. Even the people look too clean. One of its newest additions is Art'Otel, designed by Spanish artist Jaime Hayon and opened in late 2022 with a spa, rooftop bar and infinity pool up top, fits right in.
Art’Otel’s 164 rooms are grand, artsy and full of colour, with lots of fun touches; a record player, a Roberts radio, more hanging art by Hayon. It’s all very Wes Anderson but it doesn’t take itself too seriously; the staff are great and a laugh, the clientele is a real mix; families, couples in the lift in bath robes, groups of girlfriends having the best spa weekend of their lives. And if your room has a view of the Power Station, well, it’s pretty cool.
If not, simply get the lift to the rooftop, which is spectacular by day or by night, decked out with a hot tub, deck chairs and the almighty pool. Or book ahead for Joia, a very special Portuguese and Iberian restaurant with its very own views and a premium menu to match. If you want a more chilled-out dinner, head to Tozi Grand Café, a buzzy, cheerful Italian where the cacio e pepe is served at your table in a giant cheese wheel.
Neighbourhood
Well, you’re as close to sleeping inside Battersea Power Station as it gets. So sure, get your shopping done, and perhaps convince your other half to finally get that rescue dog, since Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is right next door. Hop on the Uber Boat back into town just to say you’ve done it. There’s not tons to do here, but you’d be crazy not to spend most of the day on Art’Otel’s rooftop anyway.
Nearby
1. Battersea Park: A full 200 acres and one of the best parks in London. Also home to a good café with benches strung along the river. Try not to get trampled to death by the joggers.
2. The Cinema in the Arches: An intimate 40-seat cinema with three screens built into the Circus West railway arches (no, you can’t hear the trains).
3. Noci: Originally Islington’s local, Noci opened its second branch in Battersea Power Station in 2023, serving small plates, cocktails on tap and its famous brown butter cacio e pepe.
Time Out Tip
For a weekend activity, book a cooking masterclass at Joia with its two-Michelin-starred head chef Jose Jara. Classes cover seafood cataplana (a Portuguese fish stew), Iberian tapas and more for £120 per person. Yes, wine is included.