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Who knew it was possible to be so chilled out right in the centre of London? You’ll find this new hotel from the London-based hospitality group Kinsfolk & Co, whose directors are of The Goring and The Beaumont fame, in the heart of Fitzrovia. While the design feels local to its bones – on the walls you’ll find black-and-white photos of Fitzrovia’s highlights like The Blue Posts and H.T. Harris Delicatessen – with its earthy tones, woody surfaces and a hint of glamour, it’s easy to think you’re miles away from the frenzy of the city. Somehow, despite its location, The Newman manages to be the definition of rest and relaxation: staff greet you in smiley but gentle tones, while soft lighting and lush scents complete the sense of zen. I left feeling truly rejuvenated.
What are the rooms like at The Newman?
If you’re lucky enough to have a street-facing room at The Newman, the first thing you’ll notice is the view. Gorgeous and oh-so-central, people-watching here is as good as it gets. With all the supplies you need already in the suite, you could stay here all day. Open the drawers, and you’ll find sleep oil and creams from Anatomē, alongside mushroom coffee and an array of teas. On the bar, a neat edit of premium spirits sits alongside a cocktail book to guide you in the right direction.
Our room featured a living area (I fell asleep on the cool green sofa – it was that comfortable), a bedroom, a separate WC and a bathroom. While everything felt seriously luxurious, with curved lines galore, the bathroom was a particular highlight, complete with a standalone emperor-sized bath and internal speakers. Don’t forget to check the pillow menu to choose your ideal sleeping partner for the night.
What are the facilities like at The Newman?
All the basics are in the rooms: big tellys, good wi-fi and a well-stocked mini fridge. Room service is available around the clock, and it’s the little details that really stand out – switch on ‘do not disturb’, and even the doorbell is silenced.
Downstairs, the beautifully designed wellness floor features a large, airy gym, along with a sauna, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, ice room, and halotherapy room. There’s an extensive treatment programme to explore, as well as daily classes – I tried an early morning Pilates session, which started my day just right. Everything you could possibly want to switch off and unwind is right at your fingertips; this is one of the city’s truly standout spa stays.
On the Saturday night of our stay, the on-site Gambit Bar was buzzing, with a menu that features an array of no- and low-alcohol cocktails alongside all the classics. Order the potato and Gorgonzola flatbread and thank me later.
What is the food and restaurant like at The Newman hotel?
Here’s when things get really good. Brasserie Angelica is a big restaurant with an all-day menu full of flavour. We went for breakfast (the scrambled eggs were fluffy and divine), as well as dinner, where we feasted on wood-fired king prawns rich with garlicky goodness, and hake tail that practically melted in our mouths. We were stuffed, but couldn’t resist trying the plum æblekage for dessert – we didn’t regret it. At lunchtime, I’ve heard rumours they do a sandwich trolley that’s well worth queuing for, whether you’re a guest at the hotel or not.
What’s the area like around The Newman Hotel?
The Newman fits in perfectly with its Fitzrovia surroundings and, with its love of everything local, the staff are always eager to point you towards the area’s best spots. Down the road is the ethically minded restaurant Carousel, as well as the cheap and cheerful Laksamania. Take a short stroll to catch some comedy at Soho Theatre, or simply walk off your evening meal and soak up the Fitzrovia vibe. On a weeknight, the pubs around here are pumping, too – The Ship is a personal favourite, and Bradley’s Spanish Bar is an institution you can’t skip.
DETAILS
Address: 50 Newman St, London W1T 3EB
Expect to pay: Rooms start from around £500 a night
Closest transport: Oxford Circus tube is a 7-minute walk