If you’ve ever walked down Endell Street and seen a queue outside of the building opposite the Rock and Sole Plaice chippy (see what they did there?) and wondered what it is, you’ll know where The Hospital Club is. A capacious corner building (it was formerly St Paul’s Hospital) stretching across several floors, it plays host to a range of bars, a restaurant, music studios, a screening room, meeting rooms and, of course, the accommodation. It’s members-only in the main, although a few friends can tag along with a member and enjoy the facilities. It’s a handy spot for late drinks if you’re at that stage of your life where table service sounds more appealing than jockeying in a scrum at the bar.
Occupying the third floor, the rooms and suites are one of the venues biggest – and lesser-known - assets. Tastefully decorated in a modern townhouse style (each room has its own theme informed by a selection of artists the club works with), they’re reassuringly quiet, despite being right in the middle of Covent Garden, and offer a very high-end experience. Take the suites for example – they include a roomy living room which is connected to an open-plan bedroom, which can be cut into two via a slide-y door. The bathroom is equally luxurious with its roll-top bath and drench shower. And there’s even a compact little outdoor terrace, which is handily walled off from prying eyes.
Little extra details often make the difference when it comes to hotel stays – and The Hospital Club has a quality USP: every day, in the early evening, a member of staff wheels in a cocktail trolley and makes you a stiff drink in the comfort of your own room. Quality.
Guests are free to make use of the rest of the facilities during their stay. The restaurant on the second floor knocks out dinner to respectable levels, and you can have drink here too, but it’s worth venturing up to top of the building where it can get pretty lively during the weekend DJ sets, and there’s a pool table, which is actually pretty rare for central London these days.
Prices are pitched at the premium end of the market – the suite will set you back £400-plus, but you can get a small ‘Sleeper’ room for sub-£200. Considering the location, the facilities on offer and the quality, this is one hospital you won't be sorry being admitted to.
Time Out tip
Check listings on the website and make full use of the facilities during your stay with a free film screening or a live music gig.