Cheval Residences, Knightsbridge: 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath
My London trip was originally for myself and my partner but when a friend of ours decided to join us, it became a difficult and expensive proposition looking for 2 rooms in the same hotel. We err on the side of luxury so we're considering the Lanesborough, Mandarin Oriental and the like but 2 rooms was going to cost a fortune. Then I discovered Cheval by accident on Trip Advisor.
Even after looking at the pictures and viewing the floor plans for each of the apartments, I still wasn't sure what to expect. The Cheval Knightsbridge location is interesting because the main office is essentially a small room off a side street about a 3 minute walk to the apartments themselves. We were greeted by a very polite gentleman who ran through the paperwork. We had arrived about 4 hours early and since I had inquired a month earlier, I was not expecting to be allowed early check in. So I was very pleasantly surprised when he called the housekeeper and we were let in immediately.
Just down the road and off another alley, the apartment building is 3 levels and unassuming. I had chosen what I thought was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment and this was located on the basement level down a flight of stairs. Upon entry, we were taken aback at the sheer size and luxury of our home away from home. The apartment features a large living area with booth seating around a dining room table, a comfortable couch, a fully-stocked kitchen with every gadget you'd have at home (if not more), a television and cute decor that really adds to a homey feeling - including even a cuckoo clock!
The second bedroom was across the hall from the living area - spacious with a huge bath and two double beds pushed together for one large bed - you can request for the beds to be separated and you sleep an additional person. Our friend would be so happy. At the end of the hall was the master, a large room with enjoined bathroom, queen sized bed, writing desk and enough closet space for the queen. There was more closet space in the hallway and, Lo and behold, a third bathroom in the laundry room which had a washer and dryer.
Upon further investigation of our digs, we discovered the housekeeper had provided the trappings of breakfast - butter, eggs, milk, juice - and tea and Nespresso coffee. What a comfort to have such familiariarities. And the gifts continued in various manifestations every day after the housekeeper left - chocolate, coffee, biscuits, a candle for souvenir, even plastic bags for airport security.
After a whirlwind four days in London, our stay with Cheval was truly a highlight of our trip. The comfort and conveniences it offered, the friendliness of the staff and the location in Knightsbridge next to restaurants, shopping and all manner of public transport truly made our trip great. Should you decide to stay with Cheval - Knightsbridge or any other location - I have no doubt you will have as great a stay as I did. read more