Spooky season is officially upon us, and evenings are starting to get darker earlier in London, making the capital cosier than ever. With that comes the opportunity to try new places to eat and drink, plus some of our old-time favourite spots' new offerings for the month. The HELLO! team is constantly on the lookout for the best cocktails, luxurious dining spots, and child-friendly activities to keep us busy when not bringing you the latest in entertainment and royal news, and October has delivered some treats.
From sharing plates galore to a magical date night, we have explored the best new offerings the capital has to offer and are bringing you our honest reviews so you can be *that* friend who always has a recommendation ready for a last-minute meet-up. Keep scrolling to see our favourites…
Best places to eat and drink
Enjoy elevated Indian cuisine in plush surroundings
Since opening in the heart of Knightsbridge, Vatavaran has quickly become a highly rated destination for anyone seeking elevated Indian cuisine. The interiors are effortlessly stylish, with soft, warm lighting, marble accents, and lush greenery creating a space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Upstairs, a VIP lounge offers a more intimate setting, ideal for celebrating something special or simply making an evening feel a little indulgent.
I visited to try their Diwali tasting menu, and it was a delight from start to finish. The meal began with a single golgappa that was pure magic, one bite bursting with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours. Next up was the lobster vermicelli, rich and creamy, followed by a salmon and beetroot dish that was as visually striking as it was tasty.
The harissa chicken stood out to me, smoky, juicy, and full of depth. The butter chicken that followed offered pure comfort, perfectly paired with soft breads and fragrant lentils. Dessert was equally memorable, a chocolate hazelnut creation that was indulgent yet light, with a hint of lemon that added a subtle brightness. Yum.
Everything at Vatavaran feels intentional, from the thoughtful plating to the welcoming service to the gorgeous surroundings. Whether you are looking to mark Diwali in style or simply enjoy a standout Indian meal in London, it is a spot you must visit. Highly recommend.
Book here
Reviewed by Seni Crofts, office administrator
Indulge in afternoon tea fit for royalty
She became known as the 'royal baker' after famously creating an eight-tier wedding cake for the Prince and Princess of Wales. And to mark special occasions since then, the legendary Fiona Cairns has designed a delicious array of confections for the royal family, including the christening cakes for William and Kate’s children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Now her afternoon tea fit for royalty is being snapped up like hot cakes at the luxury Conrad hotel in London’s St James, not far from Buckingham Palace. Served in the sumptuous Orchard Room, with its ornamental glass ceiling, plush velvet chairs and floral décor, three InfiniTEA experiences will leave you spoilt for choice.
Whether you opt for the traditional afternoon tea, the Bottomless Bollinger tea –which keeps the bubbles ever-flowing in your champagne glass – or the Sommelier Experience - where your afternoon delights are accompanied by four curated distinct teas – you will certainly feel like royalty. The delectable presentation of mouthwatering treats on Wedgwood’s WildStrawberry fine bone china is a feast for the eyes and the senses. Classic savoury finger sandwiches are prepared with a subtle twist, including fillings such as cucumber and mint, smoked salmon with herb mayonnaise, and Coronation chicken with aromatic spices.
The fresh warm scones come in seasonal varieties, such as raisin, blueberry, lemon and dark chocolate, and are accompanied by Cornish clotted cream, lemon curd and strawberry jam. Meanwhile, a selection of cakes designed by Fiona Cairns irresistibly abounds on the three-tiered china stands. You’ll want to savour the moment at the artistry before tucking in. Among the beautiful bespoke collection are miniature Victoria sponges brimming with vanilla Chantilly cream and strawberry jam, decadent chocolate and sour cherry cake, lemon curd-filled fondant fancies topped with handcrafted sugar flowers, and the pièce de résistance, orange blossom and honey cakes adorned with a golden bee and edible 24-carat gold leaf. The InfiniTEA experience at The Conrad Hotel starts at £60 per person.
Book here
Reviewed by Sally Morgan, Associate Editor (print)
Indulge in Micheline Persian cuisine at Berenjak
As someone who is half Persian, I've developed a discerning palate when it comes to restaurants serving traditional dishes. I can't help but compare them to the home-cooked meals my aunt prepared whenever I visited Iran growing up. I'm always on a mission to rediscover the flavours of my paternal heritage right here in London – and I may have just stumbled upon a true gem in the heart of Soho. Enter: Berenjak.
Inspired by the hole-in-the-wall kebabis tucked away in the backstreets of Tehran, Berenjak sits quietly behind an unassuming entrance. Step inside, and you're transported: Persian artwork adorns the walls, and quaint booths offer an intimate, authentic dining experience. Counter seats line the open kitchen, giving you a front-row view of the action – meats sizzling over open coal flames, silver bowls being filled with vibrant dips, and a bread oven working overtime to keep up with demand.
Start with a mix of the two house breads on offer – taftoon, a clay tanoor-baked sourdough flatbread topped with seeds, and sangak, a whole wheat flatbread traditionally baked over hot pebbles. Both are ideal for scooping up the range of vibrant dips available. My favourite is the kashk-e bademjoon – a smoky aubergine dip slow-cooked over coals and enriched with walnuts, whey, fried mint, and caramelised onions. Its rich, garlicky depth is simply delicious. Another standout is their take on hummus, made with black chickpeas — a twist on the classic that's thick, velvety, and unlike anything you’ve tasted before.
For the mains, my go-to is a mix of the koobideh kebab — minced lamb shoulder that's incredibly tender and melts in the mouth — and the jujeh kebab, succulent boneless chicken infused with the tang of saffron and a zest of lemon. They’re best enjoyed with a side of the house buttery rice and the colourful Shirazi salad, a refreshing mix of cucumber, tomato, onion, and mint that balances the richness of the meat perfectly. In true Persian style, no meal is complete without something sweet – and luckily, Berenjak delivers with an indulgent baklava served alongside creamy soft-serve ice cream.
Book here.
Reviewed by Maria Sarabi, Junior Writer
Tuck into tonnes of tiny plates at TOZI
With so many amazing restaurants to choose from in London, it can sometimes be easy to miss out on some of the best ones sitting right in front of you. As someone who has regularly explored the culinary delights of London Victoria, I couldn’t believe I hadn’t been to Tozi before - Italian sharing plates, chic restaurant interiors, and a delicious cocktail bar - it ticked every box for me.
We opted for six sharing plates from their menu, and our choices ranged from their aubergine parmigiana to their chilli chicken and roast potatoes - it was honestly one of the nicest meals I’d had. What’s more, the menu’s sharing option of small plates means you get a real selection of their delicious dishes, which is perfect for groups of friends or, like me, if you’re on a date night.
Tozi also projects classic black-and-white Italian movies onto the wall, playing softly in the background while you eat. Everything about the restaurant is designed to make you feel welcome and comfortable, with wonderful staff who genuinely care about your experience. From the reasonably priced sharing plates to the incredible cocktail and wine list, Tozi offers the perfect balance of buzz and intimacy - I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a special evening out in the capital.
Book here
Reviewed by Katy Huke, Audience Development Manager
Pivot to the best bistro in Covent Garden
It is a truth universally acknowledged that London’s best establishments are those you would simply walk past if you didn’t know they were there. 3 Henrietta Street in Covent Garden epitomises this maxim, as its unassuming facade hides a world of gastronomic delights within.
Downstairs lies Doughnation pizzeria but if pizza doesn’t entice you, then up a short flight of stairs you will find Pivot Bar and Bistro. Long before you try the food you will be struck by the decor – a soothing tapestry of burnt browns and oranges giving the venue less of the feel of a restaurant and more that of a private members’ club. Happily, nothing else at Pivot risks being burnt as its extensive menu has been curated by Mark Greenaway, officially the world’s 160th best chef. Impressive!
For starters, I opted for a tantalising mix of ham and cheese croquettes, confit chicken terrine and chilli honey mustard chipolatas. Appetite truly whetted, my main was a braised short horn beef pie, so succulent, rich and flaky I immediately crowned it the ultimate autumnal comfort food. Happily, I was also treated to a few mouthfuls of the ribeye steak being enjoyed by my friends, and I can confirm it was both beautifully tender and flavoursome.
For dessert, I turned back the seasons and had a summer berry pavlova so fruity, light and creamy, I almost forgot the frigid conditions outside. Indeed, I even felt summery enough to order a postprandial margarita. The perfect way to round off a pretty perfect meal.
Book here
Reviewed by Tim Kiek, Head of Engagement and Communities
Head to INCA for a dramatic dinner
If you're after dinner that's anything but ordinary, INCA in Mayfair is one for the list. Part restaurant, part show — think bold food, bright lights, and a whole lot of fun. My meal off with the Nobashi Prawn Tempura – perfectly crispy, with just the right hit of spicy mayo and lime.
The INCA guacamole was another instant favourite: creamy avocado with Tajin, crunchy corn nuts, and a pop of chilli, served with moreish nachos. The Ceviche Duo was a showstopper – fresh salmon and yellowtail in two different styles of tiger's milk, zesty and tangy. Then came the Tuna & Truffle Roll, which was melt-in-the-mouth tuna with a whisper of white truffle that just worked.
For mains, the Hot Pot Lobster was rich, spicy, and satisfying. The Pistachio Lumina Lamb followed, grilled perfectly with a crunchy pistachio crust and served with a herby pachamanca sauce that tied it all together beautifully. And just when you think the food is the main event, the performances take place every ten minutes. Dancers and singers take over the space, weaving through the crowd and pulling everyone into the energy of it all. It's dramatic, vibrant, and impossible not to smile through. This month, guests will get to enjoy Rhythm of the Nations, a new spectacle for the senses launching for the winter season.
Book here
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
El Pirata: A Spanish Treat Tucked Away in Mayfair
This month I had the pleasure of dining at El Pirata, a charming Spanish restaurant hidden in the heart of Mayfair. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt transported back to a traditional tapas bar in my home country. The atmosphere was warm and familiar, and with a glass of good Spanish wine - and even better, a bottle of Mondariz water - arriving at our table, it was a dream to spend a few hours feeling miles away from busy London.
We enjoyed a wonderful selection of classic Spanish dishes: deep-fried squid, octopus, pan con tomate (particularly delicious), padrón peppers, wild mushrooms with garlic and breadcrumbs, and Iberian pork secreto. It sounds like a feast for two, and it was! - but at El Pirata the tapas portions are perfect for sharing and sampling a bit of everything.
To finish, we couldn’t resist dessert: Spanish-style French toast with ice cream for my plus one, and traditional Galician cake with ice cream for me. A sweet ending to a fab night out.
Book here
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director
Enjoy high-end dining with live performances in the energetic Bagatelle
Bagatelle has become an iconic destination in the heart of Mayfair, blending refined French-Mediterranean cuisine with high-energy dining.
Known for their worldwide locations, including Dubai and Miami, not only does it provide exceptional food, service, and hospitality, but it also has a stunning interior to match. Think soft, low lighting, bold accents, and chic Parisian touches. Perfect spot for celebrating special occasions, or if you're celebrating a milestone birthday, I would highly recommend booking a table in the evening after 8 pm, as the restaurant evolves into a party experience, with live DJs and dancing on the chairs!
On my visit, I had the pleasure of experiencing a couple of their star dishes from the à la carte menu myself, which did not disappoint. I started with Burrata, with seasonal fresh tomatoes and pomegranate vinaigrette beautifully garnished with purple edible flowers, alongside a gorgeous roasted Eggplant Parmigiana - a signature dish carried from other Bagatelle locations, topped with creamy mozzarella and rich tomato sauce.
For mains, I recommend the duck breast, cooked in a delicious orange sauce, served alongside creamy polenta and roasted aubergines, or if you’re looking for something a little lighter, Bagatelle’s spaghetti is a must. A firm favourite for diners is the Spaghetti a la chitarra - a slightly thicker pasta coated in a sumptuous pistachio pesto with asparagus.
All meals aren't complete without dessert, but after so much exquisite food, I opted for the light Tropézienne à la vanille de Madagascar, a delicately light brioche cake filled with Madagascar vanilla cream. The perfect sweet treat to finish the meal without taking you over the edge.
Book here
Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer
Redefining seafood with british elegance in Mayfair's newest Lilibet restaurant
Imagine enjoying your dinner at the birthplace of one of Britain’s most beloved young princesses, Queen Elizabeth II at 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair. Now transformed into a restaurant and named after the late Queen’s cherished nickname, Lilibet’s is far more than just an eater, it’s a royally inspired culinary experience.
As you step inside, the restaurant evokes the warmth of an imagined home layered with memory, glamour, and timeless hospitality.
Surrounded by an open kitchen and dazzling seafood ice beds, you’re immersed in the journey of your food. The menu playfully blends Mediterranean influences, featuring dishes like anchovy éclair, lobster bisque, and Focaccia di Recco, a specialty from the town of Recco in Liguria, northwestern Italy.
A touch of theatrical flair accompanies the use of whole fish, allowing diners to select their preferred catch, we chose sea bream. From refreshing raw crudo to perfectly grilled fillets and hearty fish soup ideal for the cooler months, each dish pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of white wine.
For meat lovers, the land menu doesn’t disappoint. We opted for the steak fillet, succulent, juicy, and tender.
We concluded our royal dining experience with indulgent desserts: rich chocolate mousse and a classic Crêpe Suzette. A perfect finale to a regal meal.
The new 160-cover restaurant celebrates the best of seasonal seafood, infused with British elegance and a Mediterranean twist. Lilibet's is now open for dinner.
Bookings: www.lilibetsrestaurant.com
Reviewed by Celine Ponio Bagtas, Video Editor
Oblix at The Shard - a weekend brunch that’s gone next level
As someone who’s always on the lookout for a brunch that feels like an occasion, Oblix at The Shard absolutely delivered!
I finally had the chance to experience their weekend brunch, and let me just say this: if you haven’t experienced it yet, go. It’s easily one of the best brunch experiences in London right now, not only for the spectacular views but they’ve just upped the game by adding roast dinner to the menu.
The brunch itself is a feast. You kick off with a table full of starters - scrumptious crispy buttermilk chicken smothered in honey, lime & chilli glaze, burrata, fresh caesar salad with serrano ham, and moreish devilled eggs. And just when you think you might be full, the mains arrive - which now includes the option of a full Sunday roast.
I went for the premium dry-aged roast beef, and it was exceptional. Perfectly sliced with fluffy Yorkshire puddings, crispy roasted duck fat potatoes, and a rich velvety gravy. It felt indulgent, comforting, and they absolutely nailed a classic British tradition.
Dessert is no afterthought either - we’re talking an entire platter of treats. Think chocolate mousse, sharp lemon cheesecake and a dangerously good sticky toffee pudding. It was the kind of sweet spread that allows you to try a little bit of everything, even when you think you have no room left.
Book here
Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer
Dine at The Dorchester
From the moment I stepped into The Grill at The Dorchester, it was clear that I was about to be treated to an elevated dining experience. A striking chandelier is the centrepiece of the recently refurbished restaurant, casting a warm glow over chic yet comfortable leather banquettes. And attentive, knowledgable staff were on hand throughout the evening to make every moment feel special.
A thoughtful reflection of modern British dining, the menu ranged from an exceptionally fresh shellfish platter from the seafood bar, and a must-try beef wellington that melts in the mouth. The pudding menu is a thing to marvel at, too, with a rich sherry trifle for those who still have room to indulge, and an impressive sharing Alaska flambe.
For the remainder of the year, the restaurant has also partnered with the famed Ronnie Scott’s for select nights of entertainment, complemented with a divine three-course menu. As emblazoned on their menu, The Dorchester put it perfectly: “What’s the point in London if not to eat beautifully and often?”
Book here
Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director
Indulge in Japanese sharing plates at Kibou
Tucked away at the end of Northcote Road in Clapham Junction sits Kibou, an authentic Japanese restaurant that's impossible to miss thanks to its stunning cherry blossom draped over the entrance. Step inside and you'll be met with Tokyo-inspired murals leading you through to the dining area, where fairy lights are intertwined with blossoms and flowers across the ceiling. We wanted the full Kibou experience and with so much to choose from, we were advised to go for small plates and sharing platters to get a full taste of the mix of classic and contemporary Japanese dishes on offer.
Before food, we started with cocktails. I ordered my usual Mezcal Margarita, but was then lured into trying the Cucumber Saleswoman – a refreshing mix of tequila, falernum, lime, pear and cucumber – which paired perfectly with the food. The bar also boasts an impressive range of Japanese whiskies, sake and umeshu.
After nibbling on the edamame in chilli oil, we moved on to the caramelised miso-glazed aubergine – and I can safely say it's the most succulent aubergine I've ever tasted. Next up were the pork gyoza, served with a soy-based dipping sauce and topped with spring onions. For meat lovers, the crispy chicken karaage with sriracha mayo is a must – or if you're in the mood for a veggie option, try the dynamite cauliflower, which was our waiter's favourite dish on the menu.
No visit to Kibou is complete without sushi, and our choices certainly didn't disappoint. We started with the uramaki, opting for the ultra-fresh bluefin tuna topped with chives, black tobiko and spring onion. The real showstopper, though, was the volcano roll. True to its name, this ten-piece futomaki platter features salmon, avocado and tobiko, lightly fried in just enough tempura batter, then doused in an explosive drizzle of sriracha mayo, sweet chilli and unagi sauce. Arranged in a towering formation with delicate flowers and a decorative green leaf rising from the 'crater', it's as theatrical as it is delicious – and utterly moreish.
To finish, we shared a rich chocolate mousse encased in glossy ganache and dusted with gold flecks – almost too pretty to break into (I said almost). With several Kibou locations across the UK – and having now sampled both Clifton and Battersea – I'm determined to make my way through the remaining four.
Book here.
Reviewed by Abby Allen, TV Writer
Eat at Pippa Middleton's old haunt, The Abingdon
You're never far from luxury in Kensington. The London borough is favoured by the rich and famous, and with its expanse of the finest restaurants in the capital, it's not hard to see why. So, I knew I was in for a treat when I headed to the Abingdon on Abingdon Road. It's pure luxury as soon as you enter the establishment, with a small seating area with floral furniture, before you're taken to an upmarket dining area that feels very bougie.
Now, I have no doubt that you will have noted the header before scrolling down, and during talks with the staff, I learnt that the restaurant used to be favoured by Pippa Middleton when she lived in London. They have also catered for former prime ministers, including David and Samantha Cameron and Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty.
And with the quality of food and drinks on offer, it was easy to see why they kept returning. Their cod fillet, which is sourced from the Shetland Isles, is paired with borlotti beans, and I wasn't getting any meal envy when it arrived in front of me. The flavours were gorgeous, and my only bugbear ended up being that I wanted another one straight after! I was then able to enjoy a delectable sticky toffee pudding, and while it didn't set my tastebuds alight like I'd been promised, it was the perfect end to the meal.
Something that I really have to highlight were the gorgeous cocktails. Sometimes the suggested flavours can really throw you, or something doesn't come out as nice as you hoped, but when it came to my 'Lavender Pisco Sour', I would have kept drinking them throughout the evening had it not been a school night!
A fiery feast for the senses at Da Long Yi
Da Long Yi's first UK outpost in Soho delivers a brilliant take on Sichuan hotpot that's as theatrical as it is delicious. With over 2,000 restaurants worldwide, including more than 300 across cities such as Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, Sydney and Singapore, the Soho opening marks the brand's much-anticipated UK debut. It's great that London finally gets to experience why this is one of China's most celebrated hotpot brands.
The signature spicy beef broth, slow-simmered for hours with over 20 aromatic spices, is rich, fragrant and deeply satisfying. Each bubbling pot invites diners to get hands-on, making the meal both social and immersive. I loved dipping marbled beef, fresh seafood, handmade meatballs, crispy tofu skin and a generous handful of greens into the broth - a comforting, flavour-packed feast perfect for colder nights.
The new Autumn/Winter specials take things up a notch, adding extra drama and bold flavours to the experience. Another highlight is the DIY sauce station, where you can personalise every bite by mixing your own dipping sauces to taste. From sesame oil and garlic to soy, chilli and herbs, it's a fun way to experiment.
Between the sizzling pots, fragrant aromas and bold flavours, it's a great spot to warm up, gather friends and get a little messy in the most delicious way.
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
Enjoy a little slice of dolce vita at the brand new Il Bambini Club
There’s a new dose of la dolce vita in Shoreditch, and it’s arrived in the form of Il Bambini Club at The Hoxton.
From the moment I walked in, the place oozed Italian charm - think chic yet playful interiors, and that irresistible aroma of garlic, tomato and freshly baked dough.
The menu is built around sharing plates, which made it perfect for a relaxed evening with my guest. We started with a classic pizza, with a perfect thin base and crisp crust, before diving into a fresh bolognese pasta dish that felt like it had come straight from a nonna’s kitchen - rich, comforting, and perfectly seasoned.
Italian desserts are my absolute weakness, and Il Bambini doesn’t disappoint. From a tiramisu big enough to share between two to an enormous lemon meringue tart that looked like a work of art. But when I spotted the intriguingly named Bombini di Bambini, I had to try it. These mini sweet doughnuts arrived warm and golden, filled with custard and served with a chocolate dipping sauce on the side. Trust me, they’re a must-order!
Only a 15 min walk from Liverpool Street, Il Bambini Club is the perfect spot to meet with friends after work.
Book here.
Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer
Wani Tzuki: An elevated Izakaya experience
Wani Tzuki, London’s newest Covent Garden restaurant, offers an elevated take on traditional izakaya dining. Under the existing restaurant House of Louie, this fusion of elevated Japanese pub experience serves a variety of flavorful cocktails, high-quality sake, and beer, alongside small, shareable plates perfect for friends and family.
Located in a historic 19th-century townhouse, the sleek, stylish interior, accented with wildflowers, creates an immediate impact. Welcoming staff greeted us and expertly introduced the menu, which is curated by French-trained chefs.
We started with an exquisite selection of sashimi: Bluefin fatty, Hiramasa, Scallop, and Toro Sake, each piece melting delicately in our mouths. Next, we moved to the cold dishes, trying high quality Wagyu tartare and Tuna Tataki. These top-tier selections played delightfully on our palates with smooth, sweet, and tangy notes.
The dish we were most curious about, the Japanese fish and chips, did not disappoint. It was incredibly juicy and crispy, offering a distinctly superior experience compared to the everyday staple. We completed our meal with a round of expertly crafted drinks, ordering a Mojito and a Crimson Tide.
Wani Tzuki provides a truly refined Japanese dining experience in a stylish, intimate Covent Garden setting. With welcoming seating and a front-row chef's counter, it’s perfect for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Reviewed by: Celine Ponio Bagtas, Video Editor
Book Now: https://wanitzuki.com/
Best things to do
The Design Museum's Blitz exhibition - complete with digital makeover
Step back in time to 1980s London at this major exhibition at the Design Museum, paying homage to the Blitz club, the Covent Garden venue that shaped fashion and culture in the capital. The immersive exhibition (which invites you to step into the club itself, complete with a DJ set and a performance from Spandau Ballet), begins by transforming you into a Blitz club-goer, via a Snapchat filter which adorns you with a hair-raising mohican, dramatic makeup and striking outfits. You can download the image via a QR code as a memento from the day.
Snapchat makeover complete, it's time to step into the world of the Blitz club, with outfits and artefacts from the era on show for the ultimate trip down memory lane for people who came of age in the era - and a fun dive into the past for those who can only dream of living in such a vibrant, boundary-pushing time.
Reviewed by Melanie Macleod, Deputy Beauty and Lifestyle Editor
James Phelan's The Man Who Was Magic - A Perfect Night of Wonder
If you're looking for the perfect date night, James Phelan's latest magic show is exactly that. I headed to the Adelphi Theatre in London with my husband, and the show was just pure joy; we laughed from beginning to end.
The show is set against a glamorous, roaring-20s backdrop, and the evening was full of surprises and applause. What really stood out was how involved everyone felt; you weren’t just watching magic happen, you were part of it.
James' relaxed, witty style makes this show worth seeing. It was an incredibly fun and unique night out, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!
Book here
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director
Staycation in style at art’otel, and stick around for the glam Halloween party
As an Aussie in London, I know a thing or two about feeling like a tourist in your own city. So when I had the opportunity to indulge in a luxurious stay at Battersea Power Station’s art’otel just before heading back home to Sydney, I jumped at the chance.
Located smack bang in Electric Boulevard and right by those iconic chimneys, art’otel is just a stone’s throw from my own South West London home. However, looking out of the floor to ceiling windows and seeing views that spread right across to Wembley Stadium was something I never could have seen at my place.
The clue’s in the name but the hotel’s artsy aesthetics make it stand out the most. Carefully curated by the hotel’s resident artist, Jaime Hayon, the paintings, sculptures and bold colours draw you in but it was the plush bed, cosy bathrobes and retro record player with an array of Londoners from Amy Winehouse to Pink Floyd’s hit albums to choose from that made me feel like I was in a movie. Those robes came in especially handy the following morning for a must-have swim at the jaw-dropping rooftop pool. But don’t fret, the autumnal chill won’t affect you too much as it’s heated and there’s a jacuzzi too. And if it’s really cold, the sumptuous a la carte breakfast with some of the finest coffee I’ve had in London is available just downstairs at Tozi.
Be sure to nip down to Joia, the Portuguese fusion style restaurant for dinner. Whilst admiring the dreamy pink interiors and the view of the sun setting over London, we munched on the refreshing seabass ceviche, beef pica pau (be sure to mop up the sauce with extra bread) and then the monkfish with spiced aubergine and bacalhau à brás (salted cod to the English speakers) with potatoes, parsley, egg and black olives for main. If you have room for dessert, the Basque cheesecake with a quince compote is the perfect sweet note to end on.
What’s more, with Halloween fast approaching, the restaurant is hosting a night to remember on Friday 31st with fine dining, DJs and even a Marilyn Monroe burlesque band. If you’re a fan of the spooky season, don your glad rags and dress as your favourite old Hollywood icon for their Halloween Hollywood Horror Party.
If you’re ready for the ultimate staycation, book your stay here, and tickets for the Halloween Hollywood Horror Party here.
Reviewed by Alex Lilly, Senior Social Producer
A Spooktacular time at Legoland!
I had the best weekend with my family at Legoland! I personally love going in October, not only because the weather is usually mild and sunny, but also because the park is perfectly decorated for Halloween, my children’s favourite time of the year.
This year felt even more fun than last. Last year, I loved their trick-or-treat maze, but this time the kids had to keep their eyes peeled for big purple stations where kind staff were ready to hand out surprises, from pop badges to mini packets of sweets!
If you’re lucky, you might also catch the lively Monster Party - a fun addition if you happen to be in the right place at the right time.
The decorations are incredible, too. From the spiderwebs lining the long road leading to the parking area to the spooky touches at every attraction, everything feels magical and festive.
A great day out, no doubt.
Book here
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director
Go and see a Girls Aloud star on the West End
Never was there a more artistic retelling of Greek mythology than Hadestown. The show tells the story of two parallel love stories between Orpheus and Eurydice and Persephone and Hades, the god of the underworld. Told through this sung-through musical, the story comes to life with an incredible cast, including Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts, who took to the stage as Persephone and was totally transfixing in the role from the moment she entered the stage.
With inventive staging, captivating musical numbers (if you like jazz and blues music, you will love the soundtrack), and emotional acting performances, Hadestown manages to reimagine Greek mythology for a modern audience - and make it really funny. I would recommend looking up the plot before heading into the theatre, as with the nature of a sung-through show, there is minimal dialogue (though the narrator Hermes, played by the sensational Cedric Neal, helps you in the know).
All in all, a seamless production and one for theatre fans looking to branch out from the age-old fan favourites.
Book here
Reviewed by Katie Daly, Lifestyle Writer
Play the role of zookeeper, vet, conservationist and more at ZSL London Zoo's new ZooTown
A trip to the zoo is always a fun family day out, and now a new immersive experience at ZSL London Zoo for children aged three to eight will allow their imaginations to run wild – literally. A former Reptile House has been transformed into ZooTown, featuring over a dozen interactive play stations where kids can try their hand at different roles, including scientist, zookeeper, vet or entertainer.
The Zebra poo station, where kids can clean up pretend zebra poo balls, was a particular highlight for our three-year-old, as well as a stage area, complete with microphones and an array of animal-themed costumes. At the Vet Hospital, youngsters can treat poorly cuddly animals and take X-rays, or post letters in the post room. There are also quieter zones where little ones can sit down with a book or pretend to toast marshmallows around a campfire. Adults will love getting involved too and appreciate all the little details, such as the realistic scents in the plant nursery and the lifelike coffee machines in the play café.
ZooTown opens on Saturday 18 October. Tickets cost £1 per child with entry fee, for a 45-minute session, and are bookable in advance up to three days ahead of a visit.
Book here.
Reviewed by Danielle Stacey, Online Royal Correspondent