Not exactly known for its subtlety, this small-yet-bold European hotel chain isn’t afraid to make a statement. Kept separate from the Islington bustle in an unassuming part of town, it almost feels like nhow Hotel has been granted its own quiet corner of London to allow room for its big personality to shine through without overshadowing any establishments in its vicinity.
Prepare for an ambush of colourful quirky decor. I’d describe the space as a perfect storm of London-themed paraphernalia, filled with fun furnishings, alongside enough muted elements to bring the whole look back down to earth. Despite the black phone box, armchairs upholstered in royal guard uniforms, LED message boards as seen on the tube and a giant modernist replica of Big Ben, the overall design does in fact maintain an edginess that stops it from feeling gaudy.
The dynamic aesthetic of this neighbourhood hotel continues throughout its 190 rooms. Regal-meets-punk seems to be the vision, with a graffiti mural of the Queen and an abstract Union Jack rug making up the room’s most eye-catching features. However, much like the lobby, the white bedding and exposed plaster ceiling provided a much-needed tone-down of the space. With plump beds to melt into, a rainfall shower and warm lighting emitted from a bowler hat lamp, it was clear to see that the injection of fun and wow-factor decoration didn’t lead to a compromise on comfort.
The hotel is well-equipped for city living; there’s rentable fold-up bikes, a nice noon check-out time for those who have hit the town the night before, and an elaborate breakfast buffet to ensure you’re fully fuelled for a day of exploring. It’s hard to ignore the buzz of this place, and the energy of the staff – from drink-slinging bartenders to the eager-to-help folk behind reception – is just another aspect that makes nhow Hotel so full of life. Overall, an exciting stay for those who want to feel part of the London hubbub.
Neighbourhood
Set within the capital’s creative district – and the design certainly suits the location. nhow’s east London postcode puts you conveniently in the midst of Islington, Hoxton and Shoreditch, leaving you primed for bar-hopping, market shopping and dining on almost any cuisine you can think of. You’re a 10-minute walk from Angel station, which is on the well-connected Northern line.
Nearby
Spitalfields Market: One of the busiest shopping hubs in East London selling international dishes from top eateries, vintage clothing and even furniture.
Ottolenghi: The brainchild of celeb chef Yotam Ottolenghi, this trailblazing café-deli chain is a Mecca for fans of his cookbooks and colourfully eclectic cuisine.
The Old Queen's Head: A party pub where the vibes turn from relaxed to raucous as the sun goes down. A right royal boozer hosting gigs, film screenings, comedy shows and DJ nights. Their Sunday roast is also a winner.
Time Out Tip
The hotel’s Guilty restaurant hosts a Saturday bottomless brunch. Fill up on bottomless pizza, sangria and prosecco for £25 all-in – and there’s even and DJ and entertainment. As someone who’s more familiar with the city’s brunch scene than I’d like to admit, take it from me – that’s a very good deal.