Vibrant and vivacious, Hart Shoreditch is a mindfully modern stay that’s ideal for those looking to explore more of East London whilst retreating to a slice of creative serenity post-adventure. Editor Sophie Ritchie shares more:
Let me be honest. East London is a place I’ve tried to avoid for years, a part of the city that used to leave me anxious merely strolling about its historic graffiti-clad streets. Hate is a strong word, but most likely the one I’d use when describing my feelings towards heading here. It’s the place where a stranger once physically kicked me out of the blue in my early twenties and where another metaphorically stomped all over my heart with all the grace of Jack the Ripper. I even once found myself in a surprise board meeting, pitching to a room full of trendy people for a project I hadn’t prepared in the slightest for. Spoiler alert – none of these things ended well.
But there’s always room for improvement – and change. There’s something to be said for the peace of letting go, of leaning into those awkward memories instead of shuttering them all down – of simply being actively present. So when the invitation to a mindful-led weekend at Hart Shoreditch arrived filled with the opportunity, I took a deep inhale and decided to practice what I preach.
The Art of Community
A modern 126-room haven of hip furnishings and small intricate details that pay homage to East London’s industrial past, this contemporary hotel combines creative cool with a carefully curated sense of community to deliver the type of stay that leaves anyone with an artistic streak feeling entirely at home.
Even the downstairs lobby has been cleverly designed to lead a guest towards the open seating area, bar and sprawling elongated table designed for co-working and collaboration – with the main reception desk tucked discreetly around a corner. In fact, I almost miss it when first stepping over the chic threshold.
The Room
Light and airy, my King Superior abode at Hart Shoreditch is very spacious (especially considering its coveted city location). With muted colour tones on the walls, think palettes of urban grey and minimalistic white, which soothe a soul after a day in eccentric East London. These subtle shades are juxtaposed with warming tones of burnt orange and amber, plus various rose gold detailing which make the space feel comfortable rather than cold.
A desk sits in the corner – although the puffy stool suggests this is intended for vanity rather than vicious email typing. Ideal for a dose of respite after a non-stop day, pull back the curtains and stare at city skyscrapers around you, soaking up the calm and simply sitting with your thoughts. From my perch, I peer nosily into offices and homes – reminding me what a busy city London is despite the room’s serene atmosphere. Complete with a large and ultra comfy bed, it’s a mission in itself just to get up when my 6am alarm goes off.
The Food & Drink
Drink this: Pitstop for a pre-dinner cocktail at the hotel’s vibrant lobby bar, where handcrafted cocktails, vibrant music, and warm hospitality await you. As well as the classics, there’s a varied selection of refreshing non-alcoholic tipples too – showing that mixology can be just as mindful too. On Fridays and Saturdays, there’s a live DJ to enjoy from 5pm onwards too.
Eat here: At on-site pan-Asian restaurant UBA, foodies can devour a decadent array of fusion flavours. A sensory feast filled with glamour and generous portions, fill your boots (or heels) with the varied menu of small plates, dim sum options, sushi and Robatayaki. Ideal for carnivores, pescatarians and plant-based partakers, there’s something sumptuous for every appetite here.
It’s all delicious, but I’d highly recommend the Pale Aubergine Miso, Wafu Dressing, Herb Salad (8.5), Salmon Belly Teriyaki, Zuma Herbs Salad, Ponzu Oil (23) and Crispy Chilli Tuna Maki, Avocado, Yamagobo (15) – a trio combination that will impress both dates and friends. You might need to (sushi) roll back to bed, but at least it’s only a short elevator trip away.
Breakfast is also served within UBA’s alluring walls – think a DIY continental selection of pastries, chia pudding and protein with a few hot buffet dishes to sample too. As always, sipping a frothy cappuccino is my favourite part of the morning – paired beautifully with a prime sidewalk window position to watch the world wake up and go about its day. ubarestaurant.com
PSST: For those craving something other than eggs for brunch, UBA, has just unveiled a new refreshed weekend brunch menu. Curated by Head Chef Pavel Baranovs and inspired by the bustling markets and dynamic flavours of Asia’s most iconic cities. Available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm – 4pm, guests can enjoy one small plate plus a main for £25.00.
The Wellness
1 Fitness with finesse: Ideal for any cardio bunnies, the petite state-of-the-art fitness centre is equipped with many of the TechoGym family exercise machines and a small selection of weights. Paying homage to East London’s trade-filled past, it’s perfect for a sultrily modern gym experience – although its small size means it can feel cramped should other guests arrive.
2 Take to the streets: Move on and keep it moving – It would be sacrilege to visit Shoreditch and not see its famous street art and markets for yourself. Perfect for upping the step count and enjoying some of the city’s most striking streets, fire up the Strava and take yourself on a seriously artistic amble. P.S – if you’re in need of a blow out, we highly recommend a pitstop at nearby Cult Hairdressing in the former Fruit and Wool Exchange cult.london
3 Master the art of mending with Andrea Cheong: If there’s a dress in your closet that you’d love to wear again if it were not for that annoying tear, we have just the event for you. Andrea Cheong, author of “Why Don’t I Have Anything To Wear” and founder of the viral Mindful Monday Method, regularly brings her expertise to Hart Shoreditch as part of its ongoing schedule of community-led workshops.
Andrea’s approach teaches attendees how to shop smarter and make sustainable choices for the planet – whilst enjoying the mental relaxation that comes with a simple thread and needle. Join Andrea again this June as she guides curious attendees in learning how to mend and care for our clothes, giving them a second life and ensuring they remain wearable for years to come. P.S Should stitching not be your cup of tea, switch it up for one of the hotel’s many other ongoing events. hartshoreditch.com
The Wordrobe Verdict
Hart Shoreditch is a hotel for the creatives – not just for when they need a place to sleep, but to also provide a place to brainstorm and create alongside too. It’s undoubtedly hip and contemporary, but welcoming too – a rare combination when surrounded by interiors so cool. Here, the community is invited to showcase their talents rather than keep them in a cage (unless attending an event in the subterranean BYRD lounge of course).
Vibrant and vivacious, Hart Shoreditch is a mindfully modern stay that’s ideal for those looking to explore more of East London whilst retreating to a slice of creative serenity post-adventure. Suitcase roll, please.
Make it happen
Where: 61 – 67 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HU
How: Find out more and make a booking via hartshoreditch.com
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
