With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s high time for a treat.
In lieu of the classic flowers and chocolates hack, which – let’s be honest – is both predictable and a bit boring, might we suggest taking advantage of the fact Cupid’s day falls on a weekend this year, and book an overnight stay in a luxury hotel?
You don’t even need to trawl through Booking.com for a recommendation, because we have you covered.
Leonardo Royal has several branches, including a glorious tower just a hop, skip and a jump from Tower Bridge. Not only will you get premium views – which include the Shard, best spotted from the glass lift – but there’s also a secret surprise in the basement (a spa!)
NeedToKnow tried Leonardo Royal with a stay earlier this month and we’re happy to report that the venue’s four stars are well-deserved.
The hotel is huge and it’s easy to get a little lost but that’s almost part of its appeal – you can to disappear into your own little world for the night.
There are also wellbeing facilities on the lower ground floor, including a sauna, steam room and 25-metre heated indoor pool.
We’d recommend visiting early in the morning or late evening to avoid the crowd and the families, if a romantic couple’s night or relaxing solo swim is your goal.
You could also book yourself into Rena Spa, which offers a variety of treatments.
After you’ve spent a few hours pampering yourself, head to the in-house Leo’s Restaurant and Bar for a three-course meal – there’s a Valentine’s special this weekend.
We tried the set menu (three course with a few options for each dish) and the food was pretty classic hotel grub.
It didn’t knock our socks off but we left the table full and happy.
The fish and chips in particular is a winner, with a crisp batter and generous portion, but dessert (white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake and dark chocolate torte) took home the prize.
Not just because of the flavour but after a long day – and relaxing spa experience – our very kind server didn’t flinch at our request to take the final dishes to our room.
He happily put together a large tray with classic silver cloches for us to carry upstairs.
Eating dessert in bed felt extra special and it’s a nice bonus for anyone who doesn’t enjoy locking eyes with their lover in a cramped restaurant next to rows of other couples.
The breakfast buffet the following morning was sizeable and tasty.
You’ll be spoilt for choice, so make sure to set some time aside for a slow meal followed by a morning sauna. You won’t regret it.
An unexpected treat was the executive lounge access.
This is a quiet, private space where guests on business stays can work from during the day with unlimited coffee, tea, soft drinks and snacks throughout the day.
Though there are plenty of other seating areas around this super-sized hotel to grab a coffee or do some work, too.
Whether for romance or relaxation, Leonardo Royal is worth your time and money.
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