At the musically-minded Middle Eight hotel in Covent Garden, editor Sophie Ritchie finds a modern city stay that strikes a chord when it comes to ambient surroundings and impressive meets comfortable decor
Tucked just a short stroll away from the bustling piazza of Covent Garden, Middle Eight is a slice of opulence delivering both comfort and tailored service for its guests.
First opened in October 2020 (just before the era of C Who Will Not Be Named) this is a property for those who enjoy the finer things in life, whether it’s relaxing with a glass of wine under the incredible leaf-patterned ceiling installation in the Sycamore Vino Cucina restaurant or soaking up the ambience in the blissfully peaceful rooms and suites.
Middle Eight is a hefty dose of calm and serenity, hidden away from the outside chaos that is 24/7 central London. But step outside the gleaming threshold and find yourself incredibly close to top tourist attractions, as well world-class theatre shows and shopping.
The hotel draws its name from the world of music – “middle eight” is a common type of bridge, which refers to a section of a song with a significantly different melody and lyrics. By creating a contrast, this helps the song develop itself in a smooth natural way.
One thing’s for sure, at this central property, the difference is certainly noticeable. When it comes to the impressive size, the meticulously modern decor and the helpful service, this hotel stands out like an operatic high note.
The Room
Contemporary to the core, this luxe lifestyle hotel features 169 rooms spread across five categories – but if it’s a memorable stay you’re after, book one of the 12 individually named suites for a citycation with serious wow factor.
Each draws its namesake from a famous song with a famous middle eight bridge (clever, right) – my own being Downtown, located on the first floor where the majority of suites are found.
A space that is truly out of this world, the first thing to note about this one-roomed palace is the size. Incredibly large, it feels more like an apartment than a simple hotel abode. Walk around the space and prepare to ponder crawling under the enormous bed to hide and stay forever.
Lavish but comfortable, the suite feels more fabulous than fragile – you can peruse the intricate details here without questioning whether you need to take out insurance first or feel like you’re perusing an art gallery. It’s instantly relaxing, creating a sense of sanctuary that feels miles away from the chaos of Covent Garden and Holborn’s busy streets.
Decked out with beautiful artwork, the furnishings within Downtown are incredibly sleek. Think gleaming wooden furnishings, clean white walls and a mix of soft carpet and wooden flooring, all of which add to the ambience.
Tech feels as woven into the suite as the carpet threads – lights and temperature are controlled by fancy panels dotted about the space with button after button of options. Ideal for during the day, but slightly more treacherous at night when trying to reach the loo in the early morning hours.
The different segments are all beautiful in their own right, but it’s the bathroom and its standing bath that steals the show for me. Like a swimming pool of bubbles, turn on the tap and get ready to immerse yourself in a Pretty Women fantasy.
The palatial bathroom also features a marble-clad walk-in shower, plus two toilets for added modesty. It’s ideal for a true pamper session with dual sinks, mirrors and high quality Boca Terry robes to whip on at the earliest convenience.
Back by the main door, guests can curl up in the living room area with its enormous tv or enjoy a laid back, library-esque wall styled with music-inspired books, a Nespresso machine, trinkets and shiny hanging glasses. Feeling more like a snug or a fancy member’s lounge than a mere hotel room, such details help a guest settle in faster than you can say “bottle opener”.
Pack the yoga mat to stretch out in style – another unique feature to enjoy is the beautifully serene indoor garden, complete with a retractable ceiling and fun color-changing lights for added effect.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Soft and comfortable, Middle Eight’s suites are both a retreat and a respite all in one. It’s hard to shut the door when it’s time to checkout, leaving me lingering for just five minutes more in the decadent abode. There’s only one thing left to ‘note’- is there time for an encore?
Make it happen
Where: Middle Eight, 66 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5BX
How: Find out more and make a booking via middleeight.com
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
