Melissa Hoyer on the Ham Yard Hotel
Ham Yard Hotel: London’s most fashionable hotel defines luxe chic
By Melissa Hoyer
A colourful and chic oasis in the heart of London, the Ham Yard is tucked away in a quiet courtyard just moments from the bright lights of London’s West End. The hotel is a vibrant retreat that blends whimsical design with five-star luxury and he’s one of those hotels you keep finding pockets of first class perfection at every turn.
Kit Kemp’s creation in London
Created by Kit Kemp – the visionary behind the Firmdale Group – Ham Yard is a masterclass in eclectic elegance and where bold prints, curated art and eclectic interiors come together in a celebration of creativity.
Ham Yard is Soho’s asset
Whether you’re in London for theatre, shopping or simply soaking up the energy, Ham Yard’s stylish sanctuary feels exciting and highly urban … but still intimate.
One of Ham Yard’s greatest assets is its unbeatable location. Nestled in Soho, just off Great Windmill Street, it’s a stone’s throw from Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, and the theatre district. So, guests have easy access to London’s best shopping, dining and entertainment. I went to three theatrical shows in three nights … and all were a stones throw from the hotel.
The Ham Yard Village, which surrounds the hotel, adds to the charm, offering boutique shops and cafés that feel like a hidden enclave within the bustling city.
Kit Kemp’s Signature Aesthetic
Stepping into Ham Yard Hotel is like entering a living art gallery. Kit Kemp’s signature style – bold patterns, rich textures, and a fearless approach to colour – defines every corner of the property. Each of the 91 rooms and suites has been individually designed, featuring handpicked textiles, quirky artwork, and furniture that feels both luxurious and playful.
Kit’s ability to mix traditional craftsmanship with modern vibrancy ensures that no two spaces feel the same, making each visit a unique experience.
The public spaces are equally striking. The drawing room, with its oversized statement chairs and shelves brimming with books, feels like a cosy yet sophisticated lounge. The bar and restaurant area, filled with contemporary British art, creates an atmosphere that is lively yet refined.
The design throughout the hotel is both whimsical and elegant, making it a destination in itself. Ham Yard’s restaurant and bar are a major draw, even for non-guests.
Afternoon tea at the Ham Yard in Soho
The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with a modern British twist, offering everything from beautifully presented seafood dishes to indulgent comfort food. The afternoon tea is particularly popular, served in a setting that feels more like a chic country house than a London hotel.
The bar, with its statement orange leather barstools and inventive cocktail list, is a hotspot for pre-theatre drinks and late-night rendezvous. The mixologists take their craft seriously, creating drinks that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. For those looking for something more intimate, the rooftop terrace provides a gorgeous setting for a cocktail with a view of the London skyline. I absolutely love the rooftop and even on a chilly day it is great to sit and ‘breathe’, surrounded by green and in the middle of Soho.
Beyond its design and prime location, Ham Yard offers a range of unexpected features with one being after a private 1950s-style bowling alley, complete with neon lights and a vintage feel. It’s a quirky addition that makes for a fun, unexpected experience.
The hotel also boasts a screening room, making it a popular choice for film industry events while the Soholistic Spa provides a serene retreat for guests looking to unwind with expert facials and massages.
For travellers who appreciate unique, design-driven hotels that don’t compromise on luxury or location, Ham Yard is a perfect choice.
The Hoyer Ham Yard verdict
Ham Yard Hotel is a serious experience and that’s what we all want our travel stays to be. Every detail, from the bold interiors, staff to the bowling alley has been designed to surprise and delight.
For travellers who appreciate unique, design-driven hotels that don’t compromise on luxury or location, Ham Yard is perfect. Whether you’re in London for work, theatre or play this Kit Kemp masterpiece ensured my stay was as memorable and fun as the city itself.
Visit https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/ham-yard-hotel/
