I love individual places and I wish London wasn’t so full of so many chains; hotels, restaurants and shops. But sometimes you stumble across somewhere really unique and individual: like San Domenico House.
Though I’d known of the hotel for years; I’d never actually visited, so when I was invited to a night celebrating San Domenico House and it’s Puglian bigger sister Masserio San Domenico I was excited to finally see the place!
The gorgeous townhouse is just off Sloane Square, one of my favourite haunts in Chelsea. It is a family run hotel, contrasting to some of the giants in central London, and has a very personal and friendly service.
The placement of the boutique hotel is perfect for shopping in Knightsbridge, lunching in Chelsea and enjoying all the attractions of the very nearby Sloane Square. Keep an eye out for Made in Chelsea cast members; they are bound to be roaming the streets around here!
With only 16 bedrooms and suites it’s small and intimate; really everything a boutique hotel should be. The downstairs public rooms are so cosy and private it’s like being in someone’s home.
The rooms are littered with antiques and artefacts from the family’s personal collection, which really adds to the authenticity of the place.
The fireplace in reception is a stunning focal point.
There are sumptuous sofas which you could just sink into for the night with a glass of grappa…or amaretto…or prosecco…
I was fortunate enough to get a tour around of the hotel’s suites. The room had a fabulous high ceiling and gorgeous gilded side tables and frames. The artwork is all original and many of the pieces are from the 18th century! I loved the fact that everything felt authentic, it was so different to the generic chain hotels that you see so often or the sleek, minimal design hotels that are so common now.
The warm red and gold tones throughout the room actually reminded me of Buckingham palace; and the bed was huge and fit for Italian royalty!
Gorgeous antiques were well placed around the room.
The romantic terrace over looked the quieter, leafy streets of Chelsea.
The bathroom was also incredibly spacious for a small central London hotel.
The hotel has no restaurant or bar and we were kindly entertained in the lounge area of the hotel.
Canapes were flown in from Puligia and the bread was crisp and delicious, topped perfectly fresh tomatoes. Italian cheeses, parma ham and olives were passed around as we discussed our favourite Italian destinations.
Wine was classic Puglian and complemented the canapes perfectly!
It was a lovely night, showcasing a gorgeous and individual hotel. I wish there were more places like this in London and I hope to one day visit the sister hotel too!
29 – 31 Draycott Place
London
SW3 2SH
