Eduardo is a bit quick off the mark at the Langham Club private check in. As soon as I cross the threshold of the third floor foyer there’s a cool drink in my hand, a towel at my side and a beaming smile in front of me.
It seems though, there is bad news and good news…”Your room is not quite ready Mr Mossack” Eduardo explains looking entirely crestfallen, mirroring my own sad reflection, “however, in the meantime perhaps you can enjoy our new club lounge and complimentary afternoon buffet and drinks and I’ll come and find you as soon as I get the call.” That perks us both up. Well, I say to myself, there’s a silver lining in every cloud and it is tea time after all.
Enough said.
A mere 30 minutes later, fully stocked up with Langham pastries, sandwiches and a rather perky prosecco, I am sitting in my spacious club room reviewing my privileges; a butler service on tap, three pieces of clothing pressed if needed and of course all the amenities of the new Club Lounge including a hot breakfast.
I almost feel like royalty.
I have in the past, been pretty critical of hotel club lounges which tend to promise far more than they deliver. The comfy armchairs aside, you soon realise only soft drinks are free, the promised snacks turn out to be a few crumbs of comfort grudgingly extracted from the kitchen and there is usually only one lonely member of staff on hand who really doesn’t want to be there at all.
As I stroll back into the new club lounge I see a small army of attendants on hand and an early evening feast surrounds the buffet island at the Butler’s pantry. In an instant, my bitter and twisted view of hotel club lounges is kicked into touch as I ponder on which delicate but delicious finger food will go with the very fine red I’m holding. The legendary Roux dynasty has now taken over all food outlets for The Langham London, servicing not just the Roux at The Landau restaurant, but also The Palm Court and the legendary Artesian. It’s a pedigree which thankfully has also found its way to the club buffet selection.
I spend an hour in the Writer’s Corner library section, sipping more wine and pouring over a coffee table book on one of the great Hollywood photographers before popping down to the Artesian to sample cocktails and the new Snax menu.
Morning dawns and Eduardo is back guarding the club foyer reception and beckons me towards a table for breakfast; a much more intimate version of the regular Langham breakfast served in the Palm Court, but nevertheless just as satisfying. It’s a great way to start the day; morning papers, fresh juice and a strong espresso. Perfect.
The Langham London has created an impressive new Club concept which defines the reason for offering the privilege in the first place. Bespoke check in and out, all day refreshments, delicious afternoon and early evening food, private showers and changing for guests arriving early or leaving late and a comfortable and an intimate space to relax. There is even free 2 hours use of the Langham boardroom for meetings if needed.
“Come back and see us again soon” Eduardo tells me as I regretfully check out clutching a delicate bite size sandwich. Of that I have no doubt.
More details about the Langham Club
The amenities of the Langham Club are accessible by reserving a Langham Club Room (Grand Executive Club room is from £400 excluding VAT) or by enhancing your stay with Langham Club Lounge access for £90 per adult and £25.00 per child (6-12 years, children under 6 are complimentary)
