When London-based Soho House & Co teamed up with New York’s Sydell Group to resurrect a former bank, glamorous stay The Ned was born. This wasn’t any ordinary bank, though. The 1924 Grade 1 listed building is a remarkable structure, designed by (and named for) legendary London architect Sir Edwin “Ned” Lutyens. Occupying 30,000 square feet, The Ned is a composite of multifarious offerings: 250 bedrooms, 17 bars, nine restaurants, two swimming pools, a gym and a spa.
The history and heritage of its location within London’s financial hub means you are bound to share the space with the men and women who work and socialize in the area. But while it is a popular place for business meetings, this is still a Soho House establishment, meaning you'll mingle with plenty of trendsetters, too.
The vibe is composed but bustling. Mornings may be packed with business meetings, but weekends bring out the city's foodies in full force.
- Every bank has a vault, but this one has been converted into an all-hours cocktail lounge. Behind a 20-ton, 6.5-foot-wide door, the belly of the building comes to life with DJs, live music and events.
- The spa and gym facilities at The Ned aren’t to be missed. Sweat it out in the yoga, Pilates or spin studio before unwinding in a 65-foot subterranean swimming pool, sauna and steam room — the hammam experience, in particular, will leave you with butter-soft skin.
- There’s no excuse for a bad hair day if you’re staying at The Ned. In the spa and gym changing areas, you’ll find Ned’s Parlour for ladies’ hairdressing and Ned’s Barbershop for gentlemen, which does haircuts and traditional wet shaves.
- The roof affords a wonderful view of some of London’s most iconic buildings, including St Paul’s Cathedral. Grab a bite, have a drink at the bar or take a dip in the open-air pool — don’t worry, it’s heated.
- You’ll find 17 bars under one roof here. Library Bar (The Ned’s latest opening) is an intimate, 1930s-inspired space outfitted with restored antique furniture, oxblood leather paneling and old-world club chairs, serving up vintage sips like the Royale Punch that blends Rémy Martin VSOP with fresh peach, Earl Grey, citrus cordial, anise and champagne.
- Being a Soho House venue, The Ned is a members club, so some areas are open to guests at the London hotel at an additional cost. When booking your stay, be sure to check which areas are accessible with your chosen room category.
- There’s a 7 p.m. laptop curfew in common areas, so prepare to put your work away and socialize.
- The ground floor is open to the public and can get very busy and noisy, especially on weekends. If it’s an intimate drink or quiet conversation you’re after, you may want to consider other options.
- Guest rooms come with retro-looking alarm clocks and phones, though fashion favorite Net-a-Porter is on speed dial.
- Bathrooms have an art deco feel, resplendent in marble, mosaic and brass. Rainforest showers and full-size Cowshed products are the only reminders that you’re not actually in 1920s London.
- Tactile furnishings, such as sumptuous drapes, floral wallpaper, hand-knotted rugs and plush velvet chairs in rich tones, make for a luxuriously comfortable home away from home.
- The ground floor of the luxury hotel hosts a food hall with culinary offerings spanning the globe, from Italian cuisine at Cecconi’s to Californian vibes at Malibu Kitchen.
- If you're staying through the weekend, the Sunday Feast is a must. Served across three eateries (Millie’s Lounge, The Nickel Bar and Lutyens Grill), the spread includes lobster, oysters, traditional British roasts with all the trimmings and celebrated brunch dishes — be sure to leave room for cheese and desserts.
- Get a taste of New York at Zobler’s Deli & Diner. Hearty sandwiches filled with egg, smoked salmon or classic pastrami are highlights, and the matzo ball soup is incredibly authentic, too.
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