Insider Guide to London Summer 2013 - by InterContinental London Park Lane

Guide to London

Spring/Summer 2013

Insider

The jewel in the Crown

this year, the festivities continue with a four-day

garden party at Buckingham Palace to commemorate the 60th anniversary of her Majesty the Queen’s Coronation. From July 11–14th, 200 royal warrant holders will join together to honour the very best of the UK’s food and drink, style, home and garden, design, technology, pursuits and pastimes.

Our very own Executive Chef Paul Bates will be hosting demonstrations on the John Ross Jr. stand (who supply Buckingham Palace and the hotel with salmon). Chef Bates will be showing guests new and innovative ways to serve this classic ingredient.

For more information on the Coronation Festival, visit coronationfestival.com or speak with the Concierge team about our exclusive packages which celebrate the event.

what IS a royaL warrant? The Royal Warrant Holders Association (royalwarrant.org) was established in 1840 for individuals and companies with Royal Warrants of Appointment, which are a mark of recognition of those who have supplied goods or services for at least five years to The Households of HM The Queen, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh or HRH The Prince of Wales. The Holders are

The Royal family has enjoyed a flurry of momentous celebrations that began with Prince William and Kate’s wedding in 2011 and continued with Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations in 2012.

2 InterContinental.London @ICParkLane

InSIDer the JeweL In the Crown

distinguished by the words ‘By Appointment’ on their products. At present 850 companies hold Royal Warrants of Appointment and represent the widest cross-section of British trade and industry from traditional crafts to large technology firms.

the royaL SUIte & By aPPoIntMent CoLLeCtIonIn the midst of this momentous time for the Royal family, InterContinental London Park

Lane has unveiled a newly designed Royal Suite, which pays homage to the hotel’s location on the site of 145 Piccadilly, Queen Elizabeth II’s former childhood residence. Attention is in every detail of the timeless design that encapsulates signature styles from Her Majesty’s early life through to the present. Its glamorous Mayfair position offers panoramic views of the Royal Parks and sits at the heart of a new ‘By Appointment’ suite collection that creates one of the largest offerings in the capital.

The contemporary interpretation draws inspiration from Her Majesty’s style and duties to create residential grandeur, perfectly suited to entertaining, meeting or relaxing.

At the heart of the Royal Suite is a stunning living and entertaining area, which celebrates old world glamour and features an opulent hand-blown glass chandelier inspired by Her Majesty’s diamond collection. The elegant dining area comes with a plush

3

velvet cocoon and is ideal for post-dinner Champagne while soaking up the Knightsbridge skyline.

The study area features a traditional writing desk with a stylised interpretation of a white leather wingback desk chair, bespoke accessories, and a collection of Taschen- curated books. Overlooking Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, this creates one of the most inspirational places for work or reflection in London.

The master bedroom boasts a sumptuous flora lined satin canopy bed that celebrates the backdrops Cecil Beaton used in his portraits of Her Majesty and an expansive walk in wardrobe with rich leather and brass trim doors inspired by the ever-present iconic little black handbag. A luxurious cream Calcutta marble ensuite is filled with By Royal Appointment amenities from Penhaligon’s, the London perfumers.

A special collection of artwork features limited edition signed

giclée prints by Ann Carrington, who created the Royal Jubilee banner for the stern of the Royal Barge, the Spirit of Chartwell, as it made its journey up the River Thames. Other pieces include framed antique postcards, and contemporary sketches of the Queen’s finely detailed millinery and her beloved corgis.

General Manager Mr alvaro rey asks Galina Ginzburg-Maly, Senior Project Designer from hirsch Bedner associates (hBa), the team behind the new royal Suite design, about their inspiration for the Suite’s unique design.

aLvaro: What were your initial thoughts when we approached you about a Royal Suite that sits on the site of Queen Elizabeth II’s former childhood residence?

I had just visited the V&A for a fantastic exhibition of portraits of Queen Elizabeth II that were taken by royal photographer Cecil Beaton. This gorgeous collection of black and white images celebrated Her Majesty’s roles as Princess, Monarch, and mother, and was still very much in my thoughts when we first met with you. So as soon as you mentioned the noble pedigree of the hotel’s location, the idea was born right then and there to design the Royal Suite with a timeless and elegant style inspired by Queen Elizabeth II.

aLvaro: The views from the Suite are some of the best in London, how did you want to interpret this into the design?

It was very important to us that our design of the Royal Suite would direct a guest’s gaze towards its windows as much as possible. Therefore we framed each window with a vignette – in the dining area we created

…continued from overleaf

The jewel in the Crown


InSIDer the JeweL In the Crown

a private seating area for two, in the living room there’s a library/office nook, and from the vanity table and chaise longue in the bedroom, one can have a quiet moment looking onto the beautiful view. We also added a separate seating alcove in the living room that is perfect for a post-dinner cup of tea while taking in the twinkling skyline of Knightsbridge and Hyde Park.

aLvaro: For me it was really important that it was a modern interpretation of The Queen’s style. How did you think we achieved this?

Since VIPs from around the globe will be residing in the Royal Suite, our intention was to create a temporary home which would be comfortable for them all. So while our inspiration was specific, the

Suite’s references to Royalty were woven subtly into a classic and timeless design that encapsulates the styles of the decades from The Queen’s birth in 1926 to the present moment. We added some contemporary elements to the design that also help to balance the soft with the hard; the flowing with the structured and the feminine with the masculine. In the living room, for example, silk-effect wallcovering is bordered by round brass nailheads, and a chandelier in a sinuous floral shape is formed from rigid glass rods. These details, along with brass-trimmed antiqued mirrors that border the ceiling and soft furnishings framed in bevelled mirrors, all bring a modern feel to the space.

how to LIve LIKe royaLty1. British Royal Warrants

have been handed out since 1155 and at present there are over 850 of them. Only 3 people in the Royal family can grant them; HM Queen Elizabeth, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and HRH The Prince of Wales.

2. Warrants are only given to goods and services, not establishments. So while HRH The Prince of Wales might enjoy his local pub he can’t grant a Royal Warrant to it but he can grant one to the makers of his favourite beer.

3. HM The Queen has granted 686 Royal Warrants, HRH The Prince of Wales 159 and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has granted 37.

4. Companies must have supplied one of the Royals who is able to grant warrants for five years before they can apply for one.

5. Royal Warrants are reviewed every four years. They are rarely withdrawn (which explains the 850-plus Warrant holders), though Guinness lost its warrant in 1995. The brand owner Diageo arranged for HM The Queen to pull a pint of the black stuff on her recent trip to Dublin but she did not touch a drop.

5

the British Polo Day events were founded by ed olver

and tom hudson, who were inspired by all the incredible celebratory events in London during recent years; from the royal wedding, the Queen’s Jubilee and the London 2012 olympic Games. they have rolled out British Polo Day’s around the world with the goal of opening doors and building a network of diplomatic and commercial opportunities to showcase great British brands.

The aim of a British Polo Day is to continue the tradition of playing high quality polo against friends in host countries, while also acting as a platform for British businesses in emerging markets, giving them intravenous access to the global elite. “British Polo Days are like global lily pads, stepping stones into other markets. A gala party on the Great Wall of China after the tournament, for example, is much more memorable than a PowerPoint presentation” says co-founder, Edward Olver.

The project initially began in The UAE in 2009, with the UK launch taking place in July 2011. The event was held at Watership Down estate, the home and private polo ground of Lord and Lady Lloyd Webber, with players and an audience that included Prince Harry and Prince Rashid of Jordan. Since then, British Polo Day has taken place in China, Singapore, India, Thailand, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, France and Germany and with Russia, Mexico, Brazil, USA and East Africa planned in the next 12 months.

General Manager at InterContinental London Park Lane, Mr. Alvaro Rey, says “The British Polo Day events are such a fantastic opportunity for us to meet some of the most influential fashion and lifestyle brands, be surrounded by Royal families from across the world and to watch some exhilarating polo being played. It has been an honour to have met some members of the Royal families, including HRH Prince Harry, and we look forward to continuing our allegiance with the British Polo Day events”.

British Polo Day is an inspiring event created by two young friends, keen to ensure that Britain projects its values and identity globally.

BrItISh

Polo Day

Alvaro Rey, General Manager, meets the British Polo Day team including Prince Harry.


InSIDer BrItISh PoLo Day

Each event features British polo players from some of Britain’s leading institutions competing against teams from the host country. Since the end of 2011, the British side has fielded teams and players from Eton, Harrow, Oxford, Cambridge and the British Army who compete head-to-head with local and international teams.

British Polo Day has recognised that the horse is an international language, a tool of communication that can effectively bridge two cultures through a shared understanding and appreciation. Similarly British Polo Day has recognised fashion and art to be two equally effective bridging tools with the country’s elite.

British Polo Day has hosted 12 Royal families and over 10,000 global VIPs in the last 12 months and celebrated British identity with galas on The Great Wall of China and parties on the top of Rajasthani Palaces, as well as raising over £250,000 for charity.

InterContinental London Park Lane proudly works in partnership with British Polo Day. For more information about the event, visit britishpoloday.com

7

annual events and awards such as Frieze art Fair

and the turner Prize, as well as regular gallery openings and fresh street art, means London is an ever-changing canvas that is increasingly taking centre stage for buyers and those looking to discover new talent.

Insider has compiled some top-picks both inside and outside the gallery.

Hoxton Art Projects Renowned for its youthful and cutting edge art solutions, Hoxton Art Projects is an international art consultancy based in the heart of East London. Having built relationships with a wide and growing network of artists, the consultancy facilitates extraordinary art projects that reflect the trends of East London, as well as the overarching creative trends from emerging practitioners.

Hoxton Art Projects was founded in 2010 by Matthew Nickerson who is dedicated to presenting the best emerging art in the UK.

Matthew collaborated with the InterContinental London Park Lane to select a number of pieces, including Flowers by Mathew Tom, which can be seen in Theo Randall at the InterContinental.

51 Scrutton Street, EC2A 4PJ hoxtonartprojects.com

Whitechapel Gallery For over a century the Whitechapel Gallery has premiered world-class artists from modern masters such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko and Frida Kahlo to contemporaries such as Sophie Calle, Lucian Freud, Gilbert & George and Mark Wallinger. The Gallery is a touchstone for contemporary art internationally, plays a central role in London’s cultural landscape and is pivotal to the continued growth of one of the world’s most vibrant contemporary art quarters.

77–82 Whitechapel High Street, E1 7QX whitechapelgallery.org

ChanGInG CanvaSLondon’s

DID yoU Know?Other notable pieces in the hotel include works from one of Britain’s best known pop artists, Sir Peter Blake, which you will find just outside Cookbook Cafe.

From the emerging talent of the east end to the world-famous institutions of the tate Modern, Serpentine, and national Portrait Gallery, London has one of the most diverse and democratic art offerings in the world.

‘I Wish (Scooter Girl)’ by Bambi


Don’t MISS‘David Bowie is’, explores the creative processes of Bowie as a musical innovator and cultural icon, tracing his shifting style and sustained reinvention across five decades. Sharing unprecedented access to the David Bowie Archive, the exhibition will focus on five critical years of his career: 1971, 1975, 1977, 1980 and 1983 bringing his work up to date with his latest album. Until 11th August 2013.

Tickets: £14 (concessions available). V&A Members go free. Advance booking advised, visit vam.ac.uk/davidbowieis or call 020 7907 7073.

For more ideas on how to spend your time in London, check out our ‘What’s On’ picks from Head Concierge, Simon Rose.

Album cover shoot for ‘Aladdin Sane’, by Brian Duffy.

InSIDer LonDon’S ChanGInG CanvaS

9

Street Art Banksy’s messaged work has made him one of the best known names in street art. Most recently one of his pieces disappeared from a wall in Haringey, North London and resurfaced at a Miami auction house with an expected price tag of between £328,063 and £459,288. Street Art London can take you on a guided tour of his lesser-known works as well as show the plethora of other artists currently working in the capital today.For more information visit streetartlondon.co.uk or speak to our Concierge team.

Check out page 24 for our selection of the best apps, including one for discovering the best street art in London.

Pace Gallery Pace is a leading contemporary art gallery representing many of the most significant international artists and estates of the 20th and 21st centuries. Founded by Arne Glimcher in Boston in 1960 and led by Marc Glimcher, Pace has been a constant, vital force in the art world and has introduced many renowned artists’ work to the public for the first time.

6 Burlington Gardens, W1S 3ET pacegallery.com

Walton Fine Art Just a stone’s throw from the hotel, Walton Fine Arts is a treasure trove of modern, contemporary, pop and street art. Walton Fine Arts is also the exclusive global agent for Bambi, who has been dubbed the ‘female Banksy’ and who has been creating street art in London for the past 5–7 years. One of her most famous pieces is a portrait of Amy Winehouse in Camden, which is now protected by Perspex and considered a metropolitan milestone.152–154 Walton Street, SW3 2JJ waltonfinearts.com

Rook & Raven Rook & Raven Gallery was founded in 2010 by Richard Grindy and Rachelle Lunnon, to encourage alternative artistic practice, forming a bridge between commercial and progressive art forms from both emerging and established international artists. 7–8 Rathbone Place, W1T 1HN rookandraven.co.uk

Haunch of Venison Yard Just off New Bond Street, Haunch of Venison Yard is a hidden gallery waiting to be discovered. Founded by Harry Blain and Graham Southern in 2002, the space has had an illustrious past, firstly as an 18th-century inn, then as Handel’s home for 30 years (and the place he died), before finally being the place where Jimi Hendrix laid his (feathered) hat for a few years at the tail-end of the 60s.

103 New Bond Street, W1S 1ST haunchofvenison.com

Large Glass Launched in July 2011 Large Glass (named after a Duchamp artwork) certainly fits the bill having already featured curated displays of artworks and artefacts by Franz West, Richard Wentworth, Susan Collis and others, alongside regular talks plus events that combine different artforms with culinary delights such as tastings and themed dinners.392 Caledonian Rd, N1 1DN largeglass.co.uk

Auto Italia An old VW garage off the Old Kent Road has been hijacked by young artists as a chop-shop of performance art, lectures, exhibitions and symposia. The lively scene of nearby Peckham revolves around an unlikely hub of galleries, hidden in an industrial estate that includes the Hannah Barry and Son galleries.434–452 Old Kent Rd, SE1 5AG autoitaliasoutheast.org

‘Baby Love’ by Bambi

ChanGInG CanvaSLondon’s

…continued from overleaf


InSIDer LonDon’S ChanGInG CanvaS

InterContinental London Westminster InterContinental London Westminster’s art collection injects satire and wit in healthy doses within an area renowned for its political heritage.

Pieces include a selection of limited edition signed prints from artist of the moment and political satirist Gerald Scarfe, lithographs by Chris Orr, political cartoons by Martin Rowson and bronze sculptures by Tom Clark. A giant ‘hall of fame’ canvas by Agamaria Pasternak features 650 past and present members of the Houses of Parliament.Intercontinental.com/westminster InterContinental London Westminster, 28 Broadway, SW1H 9JS

‘Untitled’ at InterContinental London Westminster by Agamaria Pasternak

11


one of the most quintessentially British

of traditions, the art of serving the perfect afternoon tea has long been debated. originating from the early 19th century, the concept was said to have been concocted to help combat the ‘sinking feeling’ anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, is said to have had complained about during the afternoons. at the time it was usual for people to take only two main meals a day, breakfast, and dinner later in the evening. the remedy? a pot of tea and a light snack.Towards the late 19th century, Afternoon Tea had become a fashionable social trend for upper-class society, and the rise of the Tea Party began.

Fast-forward a couple of centuries and the tradition is going strong, although the Afternoon Tea concept and menus have changed

somewhat. Tea Parties featuring a bountiful selection of finger sandwiches, cakes and scones (with lashings of cream and jam of course) are popular amongst all generations.

Brimming with creativity, Afternoon Tea at the Wellington Lounge blends the best of tradition with contemporary twists.

Insider speaks to InterContinental London Park Lane’s executive Chef Paul Bates to find out the ingredients for the perfect tea Party as well as tea expert tara Calcraft from London tea emporium, tea Palace.

What is the current trend in Afternoon Tea?

PaUL: Afternoon tea is one of the most quintessential of English customs but while traditional in its activity, the menus in London are increasingly creative and it is exciting to be a part of it. We are

careful to offer a fun and surprising experience, but stay true to the core elements of traditional Afternoon Tea.

Recently we have seen a fashionable return to a more ‘everyday’ activity such as a post-shopping treat, a weekend brunch replacement, and even a business meeting.

What are the most important things to consider when planning a Tea Party?

PaUL: Think about what is available in the season you are in and create the recipes and ingredients accordingly. Salmon, lobster, egg and cheese are all classic Afternoon Tea sandwich fillings, but you can also be a little creative. We have a nettle-marinated asparagus wrapped in sirloin of beef on the menu for example.

“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea”. henry James

throwInG the perfect

Tea Party

InSIDer throwInG the

PerFeCt tea Party

13

We also have a full menu of teas (some of which we have created exclusively for the hotel) and all have been carefully curated to pair with certain foods. Scones should always be served warm, the cream should be clotted and jam is even better if it’s homemade. Crockery is important, as it sets the scene, and Afternoon Tea isn’t the same without a traditional cake stand.

When choosing what type of teas to serve, what should people consider?

tara: The right choice of tea will bring even more flavour to a dish.

What is the biggest difference between each basic type of tea?

tara: There are countless variables differentiating one tea type from another; the environmental conditions of the tea plant (Camelia Sinensis); the way the leaves are processed once picked to create black, green, oolong and white teas; the selection of leaves from a single tea estate, or for their intended inclusion within a blend. The addition of fruit, flowers, herbs, nuts and spices for flavoured blends; and finally, how the tea leaves are brewed to make the perfect cup.

This scope for change at every stage – from tea garden right through to tea cup – also means that key factors such as caffeine levels, health benefits and of course taste, also vary hugely from tea to tea.

Are there any specific questions people should ask when buying their tea?

tara: There are three main areas to consider when buying tea:

1. Tea type – are you looking for a single estate black tea, exclusive black blend or a speciality green, oolong or white tea? Or perhaps you’d like to try a Tea Palace organic herbal infusion or one of the two bespoke blends created specifically for InterContinental London Park Lane? Including the Number One Park Lane and Wellington blends.

2. Health benefits – do you like the sound of an organic China green tea packed with antioxidants? Are you intrigued by the idea of an authentic white tea with anti-ageing properties and the calming effects of rose? Or perhaps you’ve had a long day and just need a soothing cup to help you sleep? In which case you might be encouraged to try pure organic chamomile flowers.

3. Caffeine – Green teas typically have about half the caffeine of black tea, and white teas about half the caffeine of green tea (only a trace). So if you’d prefer


a lower-level caffeine option in the evening, but it doesn’t have to be completely caffeine-free, Jasmine Silver Needles will almost definitely be recommended.

What are your suggestions for the best blends?

tara:

• Palace Earl Grey Earl Grey yes, but not as you know it. Sophisticated, exceptionally aromatic, and made with real natural oil of bergamot from pressed citrus fruits.

• White Peony with Pink Rosebuds the finest authentic white tea with whole pink rosebuds for a beautifully balanced cup and delicate rose-scented taste.

• Number One Park Lane the finest single estate black tea blended with Madagascan vanilla pods and marigold flowers. Completely unique and every bit as pretty and delicious as it sounds.

When planning a menu, what should people consider?

PaUL: Understanding who your guests are is essential to creating

a great menu. What makes a dish pair especially well with tea? One of my personal favourites is our Wellington Blend and our new celeriac and Viennese plum mousse on the Botanical Afternoon Tea. The earthiness and slight citrus of the tea go really well with the sweetness of the dessert.

Are there any particular dishes that work especially well at a tea party?

PaUL: Tea, sandwiches, scones and then cakes, in that order.

What about the décor? Any suggestions on how to keep a Tea Party from turning too juvenile or too stiff? How do you keep the party young and fresh?

PaUL: Just keep it elegant. Afternoon Tea can be young and fresh. It does not have to be stuffy, but it should keep to certain traditions.

To find out more about Afternoon Tea at Wellington Lounge, visit wellington-lounge.co.uk

For more information about London tea emporium, Tea Palace, visit teapalace.co.uk

tIPS For PerFeCtLy BreweD tea

tara We recommend remembering the following ‘three Ts’ when making the perfect cup:

1. Teaspoons – number of teaspoons/quantity of tea per cup.

2. Temperature – the water temperature appropriate to the tea.

3. Time – the length of time the leaves are infused before they’re removed; usually 3–4 for black teas and herbal infusions and 2–3 for green and white teas but ask a member of the team for further details and they’ll be happy to help.

InSIDer throwInG the

PerFeCt tea Party

15

executive Chef Paul Bates has created a series of

twice-monthly seasonal classes for kids aged 5–8 that are designed to be educational, interactive, and most importantly fun!

The series features sessions including Bee Happy, which teaches budding little cooks how to make a honeycomb mousse (see recipe on the right), the need for bees, and why there are resident honey makers on the roof of InterContinental London Park Lane. During Jersey Royal season, kids get to make

their very own Mr Potato Head (complete with seaweed hair) and find out how potatoes grow, and where they come from.

The Seedling Series has been created to support the mission of the Edible Playgrounds Project which aims to engage children with nature and ably demonstrate where food comes from so that they can hopefully live a healthier life.

The sessions take place on select Saturdays during Cookbook Cafe’s award-winning brunch, where parents are free to join in and get their hands dirty or sit back while the children are entertained. The Seedling Series is available to children attending brunch and costs £10 per child. Saturday brunch runs from 12.30–3.30pm and costs £49 per adult, £15 for under 12s and is complimentary for children under 6. In addition to an ongoing partnership with the Edible Playgrounds project, there will be an optional donation for each guest to the programme.

For more information on Kids Cook, please visit cookbookcafe.co.ukTo find out about Edible Playgrounds and other projects, visit treesforcities.org

SeeDLInG SerIeS

Kids CooK

Bee Happy!honeyCoMB MoUSSe wIth ChoCoLate anD MIntIngredIents500ml double cream6 dessertspoons of honey3 dessertspoons of caster

sugar100g honeycomb6 mint tips/leaves6 pieces of milk chocolate

Method 1. whisk together the

honey and the sugar2. whisk the cream to

a soft peak3. Cut the fresh honeycomb

into half centimetre dice 4. Carefully fold the cream

into the honey mixture5. add the diced honeycomb6. Carefully spoon the

mixture into the glasses7. top each one with a

piece of broken chocolate and a mint tip

Recently awarded 3-star Sustainability Champion status from the Sustainable Restaurant Association, Cookbook Cafe has just launched the Seedling Series Kids Cook programme in association with the Edible Playgrounds project (part of Trees for Cities) which celebrates ingredients and teaches kids where food comes from.


InSIDer SeeDLInG SerIeS

KIDS CooK

17

Theo ranDaLL

“I’ve had some fantastic meals there over the last year or so and the food just gets better” Jamie oliver


Celebrated Chef theo randall carefully blends

the best local ingredients with hand-picked Italian imports to create rustic fare that attracts rave reviews.

Theo’s passion for simple, rustic Italian fare took him from Chez Panisse in California to Head Chef and Partner at The River Café. In 2006, Theo brought this experience to the prestigious address of No. 1 Park Lane when he opened Theo Randall at the InterContinental.

Since its launch, the restaurant has won numerous awards including best Italian/Mediterranean in Harden’s 2013, and the highest ranked Italian on the Sunday Times Food List 2013. The restaurant was a key contributing factor behind the accolade of Best Hotel in the UK for Food from Condé Nast Traveller and one of the Best Hotels for Foodies in the world by Travel Weekly.

The daily changing menu is inspired by his regular trips to Italy and dictated by the best seasonal ingredients available from the market every day. Theo has personally overseen the extensive wine list that features 90% Italian varietals, as well as a new aperitivi and antipasti menu.

Theo says, “There are no rules at the restaurant and we strive to be very versatile. Join us for a cocktail and antipasti, stay on at the bar

for an artisan beer and bowl of pasta, or enjoy a full dinner”.

While he is a regular on national television and has published the successful recipe book, PASTA, Theo remains true to his culinary roots and can be found at the restaurant most services.

For more information about Theo and his restaurant, please call 020 7318 8747, visit theorandall.com or follow him on Twitter @TheoRandall

InSIDer theo ranDaLL

London’s diverse and evolving restaurant scene presents some of the finest dining anywhere in the world and InterContinental London Park Lane is proud to house the capital’s best Italian restaurant; Theo Randall at the InterContinental.

19

In many ways, the Great Gatsby served as inspiration

for our twice monthly Gin & Jazz nights. It is a nod to an era of hotel revelry when Jazz was an act of release and gin was served behind closed doors. with the upcoming film launch, we spoke to Funmi Fetto, author of Shopping for vintage and writer at numerous publications such as vogue, harpers Bazaar, the Guardian and tatler, to find out her top spots to pick up the best vintage buys.

BeyonD retro Why: Great location (so difficult to find good vintage stores in central London).

It has lots of great vintage for everyday as well as a wonderful supply of flapper-esque dresses. Not all are 1920’s and many are 80’s inspired, but also look brilliant with accessories such as gloves and feathered hair pieces.

Be prepared to roll-up your sleeves, rifle, enjoy the eclectic music choice and find great bargains – the prices here are amazing. Don’t be put off by the wall-to-wall display of clothing – many gems to be found here so don’t come heavy laden. Wear a jacket instead of a coat and avoid lots of layers so you can try things on with ease. Bring a small bag that swings easily over your shoulders so you are hands free.

58–59 Great Marlborough Street, W1F 7JY beyondretro.com

the GatherInG GoDDeSS Wilma Mae, the founder, has been collecting vintage for decades and she really knows her stuff. She not only has a wealth of knowledge about designers that you’ve probably never heard of, but she can help to track down particular items if you have any specific ideas for what you want. Really beautiful dressing up vintage.

219 Westbourne Park Road, W11 1EA thegatheringgoddess.com

aLFIe’S antIQUe’S MarKet If you love great fine jewellery from bygone eras, this is the place for you. There is a selection of dealers so there is a wealth of choice. The market also houses a number of accessories from every bygone era and lots of incredible furniture. There is a great laid back friendly cafe on the roof top and a vintage hair salon to help you complete your Gatsby look… Oh and you might just bump into Kate Moss - she loves this place.

13–25 Church Street, NW8 8DT alfiesantiques.com

Great Gatsbyinspired ShoPPInG

Channel your inner Fitzgerald and celebrate the release of the Great Gatsby by reliving the heyday of glamour; the 1920’s.


InSIDer the Great GatSBy

LUCy In DISGUISeRun by singer Lily Allen and her sister, beautiful dresses are the mainstay here. The carefully selected pieces are comprised of one-off striking conversation starters from 1900 to the 70’s. It’s also a gorgeous store – really well thought out and great for those who don’t like the jumble sale effect of run of the mill vintage shops. It also has lots of vintage inspired dresses for those who want the effect but want to buy new.

48 Lexington Street, W1F OLR lucyindisguiselondon.com

haMMerSMIth town haLL vIntaGe FaIrIf you can’t be bothered to schlep around London from one vintage store to the next, you should make a beeline for this fair. It is the first and the most famous one in London. Every 5–6 weeks the biggest dealers in the country

(and some outside the UK) bring their wares to sell under one roof. You can find everything from the 1930’s silk gowns or a rare 50’s Balenciaga dress to a sequinned party dress from Yves Saint Laurent. The range here is breathtaking but don’t be overwhelmed. Make a day of it, haggle away (the sellers expect it) and don’t leave until you come away with a gem. Whether that’s a mint condition Victorian jacket for £10 (yes that was me!) or a full length silk chiffon ball gown for £20. Not to be missed. Make sure you take cash – credit cards and cheques are rarely accepted.

Hammersmith Town Hall, King Street, W6 9JU pa-antiques.co.uk

For more information on our Gatsby-inspired event Gin & Jazz, visit ginandjazz.com or email [email protected]

21

yearS oF the tUBe

this year marks the 150th birthday of the London Underground system, or ‘the tube’ as it’s more affectionately known to Londoners.

1. The shortest distance between two adjacent stations on the underground network is only 260 metres. The tube journey between Leicester Square and Covent Garden on the Piccadilly Line takes only about 20 seconds, but costs £4.30. Yet it still remains the most popular journey with tourists.

Despite being the oldest subterranean railway

in the world, it’s neither the largest nor the busiest. Last year alone saw over 1.107 billion passengers making it the third busiest metro system in europe.

the victorian-built tube network has been keeping London moving since 1863. the original Underground line was built by the Metropolitan railway, a company formed to undertake the challenge of relieving congestion on roads between Paddington, euston and King’s Cross train stations and the City. the line was a huge success and a novelty for many, with more than 25,000 passengers a day using the Underground during its first six months.

the tube now carries around 3.5million passengers on weekdays, serves 270 stations and has 250 miles of track; 45 per cent of which is under ground.

Insider has picked some of the more unusual facts about the tube, some of which might be a surprise!

GoInG UnDerGroUnDPick up a copy of our Hotel map from our Concierge team, who will be able to help you plan the short walk between the stations.

2. A 40 year-old recording of the message ‘Mind the Gap’ played on the Underground will be used again so the widow of the actor behind the recording can hear his voice again. Oswald Laurence’s rendition was used for years on the Northern Line and lastly at Embankment station - where Dr Margaret McCollum would go to hear her husband’s voice after his death. Transport for London stopped using the message in November but now, having been ‘touched’ by the widow’s story, are planning on bringing it back.


InSIDer 150 yearS oF the tUBe

7. During the Second World War, part of the Piccadilly line (Holborn – Aldwych branch), was closed and British Museum treasures were stored in the empty spaces.

5. The Jubilee Line, which you can join from Green Park (a short walk from the hotel), is the only one to connect with all the other Underground Lines.

8. Every week, Underground escalators travel the equivalent distance of going twice around the world.

6. There are only two tube station names that contain all five vowels: Mansion House and South Ealing.

All images © TfL, from the London Transport Museum collection.

9. The London Underground is thought to be the third largest metro system in the world, in terms of miles, after the Beijing Subway and the Shanghai Metro.

3. Angel station has the Underground’s longest escalator at 60m/197ft, with a vertical rise of 27.5m. The shortest is at Stratford, with a vertical rise of 4.1m.

4. Tube trains travelled 72.4 million train kilometres (45 million miles) last year.

10. The record for visiting all the stations on the London Underground network – known as the Tube Challenge – is currently held by Andi James and Steve Wilson of the United Kingdom, who completed the challenge in 16 hours, 29 minutes and 13 seconds on May 27 2011.

23

LonDon aPPS Inside

to download these apps, simply scan the Qr codes

below or search in your browser using the short links provided.

MUSeUM oF LonDon – Street-MUSeUMStreetmuseum gives you a unique perspective of old and new London

whether you’re discovering the capital for the first time or revisiting favourite haunts. Hundreds of images from the Museum of London’s extensive collections showcase both every day and momentous occasions

in London’s history, from the Great Fire of 1666 to the swinging sixties.

http://bit.ly/Streetmuseum Free

Street art LonDonDiscover some of the best street art from across the city from the likes of Banksy and beyond. What’s

more, you don’t even have to venture outside if you don’t want to as the app will pinpoint the

location of the street art and even give you a ‘Street View’ version.

http://bit.ly/StreetArtApp £2.99

CraFt Beer LonDonExplore London’s best craft beer pubs, breweries and shops in the capital’s first

guide dedicated to craft beer.

Carefully curated, Craft Beer London ensures that you will never

drink a bad pint again! Speak to our Concierge team for their favourite pubs too.

http://bit.ly/CraftBeerApp £1.99

BorIS BIKeSIf you’ve hired one of the hotel’s free Boris Bikes, this handy app will help you to get around, find the nearest Boris

Bike docking point and map your route around the city.

http://bit.ly/BorisBikeApp Free

with a million things to do and see during your stay in this great city it’s hard to know where to start. Insider has compiled a selection of our favourite London apps to help you explore some of the lesser known attractions whilst on the move.


1. rehyDrateThe low humidity in aircraft cabins can rob skin of essential moisture leaving it feeling dry and tight and leaving it susceptible to premature ageing. Keep it hydrated by drinking plenty of water (at least one large glass for each hour in the air), go easy on dehydrating tea, coffee and alcohol, and apply a moisture-boosting face cream like Elemis Daily Moisture Boost (available from Spa InterContinental) before, during and after the flight.

2. Power-naPLosing sleep won’t just make you look tired; it messes with your immune system too. In fact, losing just three hours sleep can cause a 50% drop in our immune response. So make up for lost time by grabbing a power-nap.

Set your clock though – experts reckon the optimum amount of time for napping is under 30 minutes. Or why not try a 20-minute session on Spa InterContinental’s dry flotation bed – you’ll feel like you’ve been asleep for hours!

3. eat to CheatAmerican research has shown that the body’s natural ‘meal-time’ clock runs parallel to the one governed by light changes and you can easily fool it. So if you eat during the flight try eating according to your destination’s local time.

4. exerCISeWith research showing the body’s internal clock responds to exercise, a work out is the perfect way to reset things (do it in the morning of your new time zone). What’s more it’s great for boosting circulation which will also re-invigorate tired, jetlagged skin.

5. treat yoUrSeLF Whether you’ve flown in for business or for pleasure the chances are you’ll be tired and will either want to sleep or have the energy to stay awake. Recognising these needs Spa InterContinental has two treatments perfect for anyone suffering from jetlag. Both the Instant Relaxer and Instant Energizer treatments feature specially-tailored facials – one relaxing the other reviving – along with a 20-minute session on the hotel’s dry flotation bed. They’re the perfect tonic for both skin and soul!

Lee Kynaston is one of the UK’s leading male grooming experts and has worked with the Spa InterContinental to devise a range of Male Grooming ‘Pit Stop’ treatments.

For more information, please call 020 7318 8691, visit spaintercontinentallondon.com or email [email protected]

5 wayS to SUrvIve Jet LaG

Jet LaGRefuel from

Suffering from jet lag can ruin your travels and readjusting your body clock can be difficult. Grooming Guru, Lee Kynaston gives his tips for looking your best, even when you don’t feel it.

InSIDer reFUeL FroM Jet LaG

25

LIFe anD Death In PoMPeII anD herCULaneUMThis exhibition will be the first ever held on the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum at the British Museum, and the first such major exhibition in London for almost 40 years.

It is the result of close collaboration with the Archaeological Superintendency of Naples and Pompeii, will bring together over 250 fascinating objects, both recent discoveries and celebrated finds from earlier excavations.

Many of these objects have never before been seen outside Italy.

The exhibition will have a unique focus, looking at the Roman home and the people who lived in these ill-fated cities.

28th March – 29th September. Adults

£15, Members free.

British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG

our head Concierge, Simon Rose, has picked his favourites taking place in the next few months.

what’s on in London this Spring

LonDon LIteratUre FeStIvaL 2013This festival brings together international, world class poets, authors and speakers representing the spectrum of creative disciplines for more than a week of talks and events. Literary stars join Southbank Centre at two prize-reading events – the 2013 Man International Booker Prize Readings and the Women’s Prize for Fiction Readings. Celebrated biographer Claire Tomalin presents five lectures on literary icons such as Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen.

20th May – 4th June. Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX


InSIDer what’S on In LonDon thIS SPrInG

oPen GarDen SQUareS weeKenD 2013Open Garden Squares Weekend is a magical two-day event, where community gardens and private squares throughout London welcome visitors from around the world. Gardens range from historical private squares to contemporary roof gardens, prisons, barges.

The Downing Street garden will join over 200 private, hidden and little-known gardens opening to the public as part of Open Garden Squares Weekend, organised by the London Parks & Gardens Trust and presented in association with the National Trust. One ticket allows entry to all venues on both 8th and 9th June 2013. Visit the website for details of all participating gardens opensquares.org

CanaLway CavaLCaDe 2013This gathering of picturesque canal boats organised by volunteers from Inland Waterways Association (IWA) is a quintessentially English affair, complete with real ale, Morris dancers and lots of activities for children. The event has taken place in Little Venice every year since 1983, with around 130 boats moored along the stretch of the Grand Union Canal between Blomfield Road, Warwick Avenue and Warwick Crescent.

4th May – 6th May. Between Blomfield Rd Warwick Avenue and Warwick Crescent, London W9 2PB

UDDerBeLLy FeStIvaLEach summer the 400-seat temporary venue provides a vast array of entertainment, from outlandish cabaret to daytime children’s shows and the biggest selection of comedy in London. Beside the big moo is a large outdoor bar and selection of upmarket food stalls which can be enjoyed without a ticket.

Plus, next to the upturned cow is another temporary venue – the London Wonderground – a huge spiegel tent playing host to circus, cabaret and much more.

The Udderbelly Festival runs 12th April –14th July 2013. Tickets for this year’s Udderbelly Festival are available from udderbelly.co.uk or by phoning 0844 545 8252.

Jubilee Gardens, off Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX

27

one hamilton Place, Park Lane, London w1J 7Qy+44 (0)20 7409 3131

london.intercontinental.com

InterContinental.London @ICParkLane

Documents

Insider Guide to London Summer 2013 - by InterContinental London Park Lane