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Blakes
London

Discreetly tucked-away behind its chic black Victorian townhouse exterior near South Kensington, Blakes, which can boast being the world's first boutique hotel, is a true hidden gem. Opened in 1978 by ex-bond girl turned super-star designer, Anoushka Hempel, the hotel is an eccentric hedonistic temple of luxury and style. Designed by Hempel to take guests on a design tour of the globe, Blakes has been inspired by China, Cambodia, Thailand, Egypt and Italy but manages to remain intrinsically British. No hotel in London manages to so successfully evoke the age of Empire while still feeling firmly in the present.

The new Blakes Restaurant opened in June 2016 and evokes the travelling spirit to which the hotel was styled on. The bar is colonial-chic think porter trunks, safari hats, bird feather fans and black and white photographs. The rooms are simply exquisite magnificent four-poster beds hang with floor-to-ceiling muslin drapes, walls are lined with everything from neo-classical architectural floor plans to exotic flora and fauna and furniture is truly one of a kind. All are completely different and reflect a creative blend of geographies, eras and design schools from the sexy yet scholarly Library Suite to the honeymoon-perfect white and cream extravaganza, the Corfu Suite. For something more private check-out the Mews House.

Features in the following itineraries

Blakes, London, UK
Blakes, (Corfu Suite), London, UK
Blakes, Suite, London, UK
Blakes (Library Suite), London, UK
Blakes, (Corfu Suite), London, UK
Blakes, Suite, London, UK
Blakes (Library Suite), London, UK
Blakes, London, UK
The traveller sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.
G. K. Chesterton

Client Testimonials

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

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