Lime Tree Hotel

There’s nothing like being a visitor in your home city to give you a fresh perspective on it. And that’s the situation I found myself in when I was lucky enough to stay at the Lime Tree Hotel for two days, where I fully embraced being a Belgravia resident. 

The hotel – self described as a ‘boutique bolthole’ – is set on Ebury street, a mere 10-minute walk from Victoria. The super central location is second to none; whether you’re visiting for work or pleasure, you can whizz around London seamlessly without feeling like you’re caught up in the hustle of its streets. Where Lime Tree sits is quiet, residential and relaxed, encased by a Belgravia bubble. And the hotel feels the same within. The Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse is a small and homey, with just 26 rooms spread across three floors. 

The entrance was lined with a trail of daffodils on the spring morning when I checked in, in the main reception area are sofas strewn with Ikat-print cushions and stacks of magazines and books I actually wanted to read, and I received a friendly welcome from Laura at reception who greeted me as I checked in. My twin room, where I was staying with a platonic fellow Mrs Smith, was the perfect spot for a highly overdue girls weekend. Double French doors opened onto our own terrace in Lime Tree’s garden, which is perfectly manicured, framed by jasmine trailing up the walls. It was chilly when we arrive, but in the summer this tucked-away green space must really come into its own. It’s a lovely spot for relaxing in the evening with a glass of wine, and it makes a serene breakfasting spot too – I made a note to return for what turned out to be a very good breakfast as soon as I spy some rays.

My room’s green-velvet headboard, Klippan wool throw and stacks of pillows adorning the bed made it feel extra cosy. Never one to shy away from a house tour – and curious to see if the grass/headboard is greener elsewhere – I asked to see some of the other rooms. I don’t want to pick favourites, but, if you're lucky enough for them to be free when you book, number 42 is a generously sized double set on the first floor, with large sash windows looking out onto the street; or you’re green-fingered, you may prefer number 18, a spacious double with a garden view. 

I can’t put my finger on it, but there was something about Lime Tree that made me feel  like I’d been transported to the Cotswolds. Maybe it was because every Saturday at the  end of the street there was the upscale Pimlico Road farmers' market selling homemade produce and treats. At this near distance, I didn’t feel like I was in the London I know; maybe because this two-day rest made me feel like I’d been whisked away to the countryside. It could also be the magnificent breakfast served at the Buttery, the café joined to the Lime Tree, where there’s shakshuka, filled brioches, various morning fizzes and even baked cookie dough on the menu.

Breakfast is not included in your stay, but you’d be a fool to miss it. Book your spot ahead of time, as many other people staying seemed to be in agreement; even early in the morning on a weekday the café is full, with both guests and non-guests, many transfixed on the menus, trying to narrow down their order. I too found it hard, but decided to go for the full veggie breakfast, while my friend had Nutella French toast, which arrived decorated in edible flowers and raspberries. It looked slightly too beautiful to eat, however my friend bravely managed it, leaving only a spotless plate as evidence. 

The Lime Tree is the rare London hotel that truly feels like a home from home, a space  where you instantly feel relaxed. When my life as a fake Belgravia local came to an end, I  was rather sad to leave my little adopted enclave behind. However, I can’t quite bear to leave it – or the breakfast – behind for too long, so I know I’ll be back.