The background
Montcalm East is situated just moments away from Old Street station, an area that in recent years has undergone a huge (and ongoing) transformation. The locality is home to some of the capital’s most entrepreneurial tech companies, while being in easy reach of the more traditional working hub of the City of London, making the hotel an ideal pad for business travellers.
However, it’s most definitely not all work and no play. With the bustling nightlife and trendy bars and restaurants of Shoreditch on its doorstep, it’s just as handy a location for leisure and exploring the city. For more relaxed weekends, it’s also a short walk from Islington for a spot of shopping at some of London’s best independent boutiques and cafes.
Rooms
Walk up City Road and the Montcalm East is unmistakable, its almost impossibly angular form lending the building a CGI-like quality even when seen in real life. This unique look brings a design-led ethos that extends to every facet of the hotel. Optical illusions and visual surprises permeate every facet of the interior, right down to the rooms.
These strike a careful balance between style and function, the idiosyncratic shape of the windows informing the contemporary, industrial aesthetic throughout. The play with light flows from the airy feel during the day to the moodier atmosphere at night, bolstered by a range of options to play with the colours of the lights throughout the room in a fun and creative touch. With 288 rooms, from doubles to luxurious suites, you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep with some incredible views.
Dining
While East London is home to some of the capital’s most creative culinary experiences, when travelling there’s much to be said for keeping it simple. That’s where the hotel’s on-site restaurant, Moor & Mead comes into its own. The menu is heavy on homely comfort food, with classics such as fish and chips (in incredibly generous portions) and burgers, perfect no-nonsense grub after a long day on the road. However, the extensive range of dishes has something for everyone, from pasta and pizza to more adventurous Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine. By morning, the space also transforms into a buffet offering that offers convenience whether you’re stopping for a more leisurely breakfast or need a fast fix before a morning meeting.
Amenities
If you have time for pampering, unwind at the tranquil spa, complete with swimming pool, steam room, jacuzzi and sauna. Whatever your idea of bliss you’re sure to find it in the extensive menu of treatments and experiences on offer. These range from indulgent massages and facials to the more spiritual side, including sound therapy and tarot readings.
This creative and unconventional streak is echoed in some of the other offerings that sets Montcalm East apart. Its public spaces are home to both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions of British photography. And should you be inspired by what you see, take your own snaps and print them in the hotel’s on-site Photo Lab, where you can sip on a limited-edition cocktail while waiting.
The verdict
The Montcalm East offers convenience, creativity and comfort in the heart of one of the capital’s most lively areas.