Let me tell you, The Gate London City is not your average stay – it’s a full-on experience. Located right behind Aldgate East tube station, this gem puts you in the heart of East London’s coolest spots like Shoreditch, Hoxton, and Hackney. And for those moments when you want to take in a bit of London’s iconic skyline, Tower Bridge and the riverfront are just a ten-minute stroll away. Trust me, you’re in a prime location to explore the best of the capital.
But let’s get into the real reason I loved staying at The Gate: it’s all about the little luxuries that make you feel like a VIP. First off, the high-speed Wi-Fi is no joke! Whether you’re uploading snaps of your adventures or squeezing in a bit of remote work, you’ll be sorted. And the cherry on top? Each apartment is kitted out with air conditioning (because London heatwaves are a thing, people).
Now, let me introduce you to the 5th-floor lounge. Exclusively for us guests, it’s a seriously stunning space. Picture this: bold, mid-century furniture, art curated by Maddox Gallery, and the kind of vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a members-only club. The self-pouring wine station? Oh, yes. Just pour yourself a glass and settle into one of the chic dining tables, or grab a spot in the private meeting room if you need to make it look like you’re ‘working’ (I know the game!). And when the sun’s out, the outdoor terrace offers incredible views of East London, making it the perfect spot for a bit of downtime. During the summer, the terrace transforms into a whole vibe with outdoor yoga classes, BBQs, and even wine masterclasses. Fancy, right?
One of my favourite things about The Gate is how pet-friendly it is. Travelling with my little dog? Not a problem! The 24-hour front desk staff were always on hand with recommendations for nearby parks and even gave us a few treats for the road. Speaking of convenience, the option for online check-in, early check-in, and late check-out just made the whole experience feel like it was tailored to me.
For those of you who love staying active (or are trying to convince yourselves you do!), there’s a fully equipped gym. So, you can squeeze in a workout before heading out to explore East London’s vibrant streets. And if the gym isn’t your thing, no worries – the 5th-floor lounge has you covered with a more chill experience. It’s perfect for co-working or just hanging out with a cup of coffee (which, by the way, is excellent – no basic brews here).
Now, about the apartments themselves. They’re a dream. Fully equipped kitchens mean you can cook up a storm if you fancy staying in. Or, if you’re like me and prefer the idea of cooking over the actual doing, it’s a nice option to have. The Le Labo toiletries in the bathroom? Such a vibe. There’s nothing better than waking up refreshed, smelling like you just stepped out of a luxury spa.
And let’s not forget – The Gate knows how to make mornings feel special. I spent my mornings in the bright, airy space of the 5th-floor lounge, sipping on coffee and tucking into a healthy breakfast while soaking up the East London views. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax before diving into the hustle and bustle of the city.
So, if you’re after a stay that feels more like an exclusive city escape rather than just a place to rest your head, The Gate London City is the one. From the perfect location to the little details like the self-pour wine station, it’s an experience worth writing home about.
Roger Moore