History lessons
Located in the heart of the City of London, right around the corner from the Bank of England and a minute’s walk from Bank Station lies The Ned hotel. And its location couldn’t be more relevant given that it occupies the former Midland Bank’s HQ. Seven years ago the colossal 320,000 square metre space was acquired by the Soho House group and a five-year project was undertaken to transform the Grade I listed building into one of London’s most upmarket heritage hotels.
Located on Poultry, just next to the impressive Royal Exchange, The Ned’s setting is perfect if you want to indulge in a spot of seasonal shopping as it’s located right in the heart of the retail mecca of the Square Mile. It opened in April 2017 and with 250 bedrooms, 11 restaurants, a spa, gym, private members’ club, rooftop pool and premium fashion line Net A Porter on speed dial to guests, The Ned pitches itself as the place to cater for all your needs.
All in the detail
Thankfully all the heritage hallmarks of the former Midland Bank are still very much in evidence post the building’s renovation and none more so than on arrival at The Ned. The banking hall’s original 92 magnificent verdite Art Deco pillars are a sight to behold – the ceiling was cleverly raised to make the most of their majestic presence.
Back in the day the verdite columns separated the various counter areas of the Midland Bank but now they section off a number of chi-chi dining areas which include the wood-panelled Lutyns Grill, Parisian inspired Café Sou and trendy Malibu kitchen serving up healthy Californian food.
The Ned’s setting is perfect if you want to indulge in a spot of seasonal shopping as it’s located right in the heart of the retail mecca of the Square Mile
Other original features successfully brought back to life include the double height wrought iron arched windows (which The Ned’s logo is based on), domed glass chandeliers and marble stairs giving the whole place a distinct gentleman’s club feel – in a good way. Every Sunday The Ned hosts its popular Sunday Swing jazz evenings and I would heartily recommend a visit – just remember to bring your dancing shoes!
What’s in a name?
The Grade-I listed, 11-storey building was designed in 1924 by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The architect’s nickname was ‘Ned’ – hence the hotel’s moniker – and a portrait of him sits proudly in the concierge area. Indeed throughout the hotel there are examples of Lutyens’ designs including the Chairman’s private lift, which would whisk him up to the top floor.
Then there are the cute bowler hat walnut cabinets where Midland employees would stow their headgear at mealtimes and for meetings. Down below there’s the original bank vault, which is only accessible if you’re a member of Ned’s Club. But guests can still catch a glimpse of its 20-tonne metal door.
Kick back and relax
Whether you’ve been busy shopping, taking advantage of the hotel’s busy basement gym or pampering yourself in its spa which boasts a 20-metre indoor pool, Moroccan hammam and eight treatment rooms, The Ned will certainly help you to relax. Rooms are beautifully decorated in keeping with the building’s original Art Deco theme – think dark panelled walls, glittering chandeliers, sumptuous swagged curtains, statement Persian-style carpets and huge beds fashioned out of oak.
When we arrived a complementary afternoon tea was awaiting us along with a silver tray full of spirits if we fancied a pre-dinner tipple. When it comes to drinking and dining there are numerous options with eight public eateries and three Ned Club member options to choose from. We enjoyed a superb meal in Cecconi’s Venetian brasserie, feasting on grilled tuna steak and robust wild boar ragout but you can eat Japanese, classic French and NYC deli delights too.
Join the club
The hotel runs an exclusive membership scheme which gives access to some of The Ned’s most impressive areas. These include its über-cool Roof Bar, which has a retractable roof and commands the most spectacular views over the City and St Paul’s. It also means you can swim in the Italian marble outdoor pool or sip a cocktail or two in its Princes and Poultry converted ‘dome’ bars. Becoming a member means you can also enjoy the hotel’s super cool underground vault bar complete with 3,800 original silver safety deposit boxes still on the walls. Talk about silver linings…
Rooms at The Ned start from £250 and more information can be found at www.thened.com
