I really didn't know what to expect because these types of places can be gimmicky and pretentious, but I was VERY pleasantly surprised.
The bar has a website also committed to the speak easy theme, you would genuinely think it was a website for a laundrette unless you were in the know. It certainly adds to the experience. When you book you're often asked how many items you'd like to wash a.k.a how many people would you like to book for :) It's important to note that the wash house is a reservation only establishment. You can book via phone and instagram, after visiting you can also book via email as you're given a card with the details on it.
Upon arrival you have to use the old school phone to ring through to the bar, you're then buzzed through a large door made up to look like a huge washing machine and voila! You're in. The inside is dark and gorgeous, exposed brick and cosy leather booths. The bathrooms are candle lit - beware hairspray lovers... Overall, the whole place is lovely.
Customer service was impeccable and the bottomless complimentary snacks were a nice touch. The cocktails were delicious, definitely pricey at around £10 each but worth it for what you get. I got the house special G&T which was sorbet like and infused with basil, it worked really well and I got to try 1724 tonic, absolutely delicious! The #instagramme cocktail was fruity and came with a polaroid of my mug. Nice little keepsake. You can ask for a polaroid of the whole table if you want. My friend wasn't feeling photo ready so I went solo. My friend got the Ageless something or another cocktail (I have a bad memory), I had a sip and it was very nice, reminded me of limoncello with a hint of ginger.
This place is a fab experience and definitely feels like a treat. If it wasn't for the customer service and vibe I'd say it wasn't worth the money, so I hope they don't lose sight of what's important - the DETAILS.
I'll definitely be going back. One must do one's laundry at least once a week after all ;P read more