An Unforgettable 16-Hour Stay at The Ned: London's Dream Hotel Unveiled
"This is how you get gout," my friend remarked with a laugh as she savored another bite of steak. Our table at The Ned resembled a feast fit for royalty, featuring a 300g Wagyu rib-eye, a 44-day aged cote du boeuf, an assortment of sauces, crispy fries, a generous bread basket, and a side of creamed spinach for good measure. This lavish spread followed a bottle of Champagne enjoyed in our room, setting the tone for an extraordinary experience.
The Evolution of a London Icon
Since its grand opening in the City of London in 2017, The Ned has become synonymous with luxury, particularly through its famed "Sunday Feast." Initially priced at £50, this buffet offered an extravagant array of dishes, from oversized Yorkshire puddings and succulent meat joints to lobster tails and dreamy cheese boards. Nearly a decade later, the feast now costs £120, yet The Ned has firmly cemented its status as a beloved destination for even the most discerning Londoners.
Many residents have visited for cocktails, spa treatments, or, if privileged with membership, to lounge by the rooftop pool. However, few have had the opportunity to explore the hotel's 250 rooms. What secrets lie within? Are the walls adorned with gold? Do the hallways echo with the chatter of celebrities? Driven by journalistic curiosity, I embarked on a 16-hour stay to uncover the truth.
Immersive Atmosphere and Historic Grandeur
The ground floor of The Ned immediately captivates visitors. Housed in the former Midland Bank headquarters, designed in 1924 by Sir Edwin "Ned" Lutyens, the building stood vacant for eight years before restoration began in 2012. Entering the former banking hall feels like stepping into a scene from a fantasy novel, with its soaring ceilings, original green marble columns, mahogany desks, and checkerboard floor.
Eight of the hotel's ten restaurants are arranged open-plan around this vast space, creating a vibrant hub of noise and conversation. A central stage hosts live music throughout the day, and by night, the area buzzes with guests enjoying drinks and socializing. While the clientele includes some affluent "finance types" seeking visibility, The Ned's extravagant charm is irresistibly engaging.
Luxurious Accommodations and Celebrity Encounters
Ascending to the fifth floor, the bustling energy below fades into serene quietude, with sunlight illuminating wide, carpeted hallways. During my stay, I had a pleasant encounter with the friendly fitness influencer Joe Wicks, adding a touch of star power to the experience.
I booked a Heritage Room at £650 per night, which sits above "Cosy" (£350), "Medium" (£450), and "Large" (£620) categories. The hotel offers nine more classifications above this, with the Lutyens Suite commanding £2,650 per night. The Heritage Room, though not expansive, comfortably accommodates a four-poster bed and a freestanding bathtub, exuding opulence with dark woods, antique furniture, and rich fabrics.
Amenities include a well-stocked tea and biscuit station, a mini-bar, and Cowshed toiletries in the white marble bathroom. The spacious shower, large enough for three, comes with multiple gel options. Thoughtful touches like complimentary toothbrushes, tampons, and even condoms, each in labeled drawstring bags, enhance the stay.
Exquisite Dining and Hefty Price Tags
The Ned boasts diverse culinary options, from Italian fare at Cecconi's to Asian-Pacific dishes at Kaia. The popularity among non-guests signals the quality of the food. At Lutyens Grill, ranked 39th in the "World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants," we indulged in a meat-heavy meal. The Wagyu rib-eye was exceptionally tender, while the 15-hour potatoes—layered, baked, chilled, and deep-fried—were a standout.
Starters like lobster bisque and lamb scrumpet were equally impressive, with attentive service from staff like manager Marina. However, the private dining room's location meant noise from the banking hall occasionally intruded, and the bill for three courses with wine reached approximately £500, excluding service charge.
Breakfast at Millie's Lounge offered a more relaxed atmosphere, with classic options like full English and avocado toast. Yet, a meal for two with sides and drinks totaled £100, underscoring the hotel's premium pricing.
Exclusive Membership and Premium Facilities
The Ned Club offers members access to all hotel amenities, discounted rates, and exclusive areas like the rooftop with panoramic city views, a restaurant, bar, and heated pool. The basement features The Vault, a late-night cocktail lounge in the former bank vault. Membership eligibility and fees vary based on specific criteria, with applications available online.
The subterranean spa continues the vintage aesthetic in "The Library," with plush sofas and book-lined walls. The 20m indoor pool, sauna, and steam room provide a social yet relaxing environment. Treatments, such as the Signature Massage at £160, are luxurious but optional for cost-conscious guests. Additional services include a hairdresser, nail salon, and physio, with well-equipped changing rooms.
Final Verdict and Practical Details
My stay at The Ned totaled around £1,410 for two, a sum that may seem extravagant to many. However, having experienced numerous high-end hotels, I found The Ned to be exceptionally relaxing and luxurious. If your budget allows, it offers an unforgettable experience worth savoring.
Check-in/Check-out: 3 PM/12 PM. Disability Access: Eight adapted rooms, stair-free banking hall, and lifts to all floors. Standout Feature: The stunning banking hall with multiple restaurants. Perfect For: A once-in-a-lifetime treat or regular indulgence for those with means. Not Right For: Travelers seeking only basic accommodation; this is an immersive experience demanding full engagement.
