The Park Hyatt Hotel in Nine Elms

Article by guest author Peter Brooker

I had the pleasure of staying in the Park Hyatt Hotel, a short 5 minute walk (if that) from Vauxhall Station. The room had a welcome platter of dark chocolate. Which I ignored because I'm behaving myself. Some of the crisps and drinks were free.

The room was cosy, but you can go all out with the Ambassador and Presidential Suites of course. However, if you're flying solo, and just in town for business, the one bed smaller room will be plentiful.

There is a fair bit of construction going on around the hotel currently, but once you're inside you feel like you're in a mini oasis. The Nine Elms bar is expansive, open and well appointed with a mahogany-elegant appeal.

The Nine Elms Kitchen has a chocolatier named Cordelia offering samples. She has no idea the etymology of her name. 'It's King Lear,' I told her after a quick Google. Her sister is named Ophelia. 'That's Hamlet,' I informed her. Although I didn't need Google for that. I've seen Trading Places so many times and Jamie Lee Curtis tells Louis (played by Dan Ackroyd) that her name is Ophelia right before she takes her top off.

The kitchen has everything you'd expect from an intercontinental breakfast and a small terrace outside.

I didn't get to try the Yú Gé - Cantonese Cuisine restaurant sadly, but you will not have to leave the hotel for a romantic meal.

The TAMISe bar has the best view of the Thames, from the same side as the Mi6 Building. The wine room is also resplendent and perfect for events or private functions.

The Wellness floor is also open to the public, and you don't need to be a guest to use the amenities. There is a generous size swimming pool, sauna, gym with multiple machines and treatment rooms.

I found the customer service to be extremely pleasant. Everything had this brand new feeling and when I return I'll look to treat the old lady to a sunset spa treatment for £120. Although I heard the prices will be reviewed in September so that could go up by the time you read this.

Small TIP

One is to check out some of the James Bond locations along the River Thames. You have the starting point with the Mi6 building and there is a map you can buy that will direct you to all the locations.