Londoners and tourists alike love Shoreditch for its street art scene, where artists from Banksy to Ben Eine have made their mark. Inspired by that (and a lot of north London cabin fever), we decided on a weekend break in our own city at the new Montcalm East concept hotel, a short 3-minute walk from Old Street station. 

Part of the Marriott’s Autograph Collection, we spot its angular design from afar, complete with vertical lines that give the illusion of movement.

Greeted by a concept (and Instagram-friendly) mixed media installation you can walk through, it’s also full of pieces by east London artists, with a QR code beside each piece that guests are encouraged to scan to learn more.

As well as collage and pop art pieces that encourage guests to immerse themselves in the scene, Visitors are even encouraged to use the photography lab to develop images on site.  

Overall, it manages to create a trendy atmosphere, without being gimmicky. With mostly UK guests for now, some are here for proximity to the nightlife, whilst others are looking for escapism, making the most of the hotel’s spa — complete with a pool, jacuzzi and ice room. 

The guest rooms are as full of statement pieces as the welcoming communal areas: our family room (one of the 288 rooms in the hotel) has a monochrome touch complete with all the usual modern conveniences, including a powerful shower.

Up on the 16th floor (guests rooms go up to the 17th), we have a 360 degree floor-to-ceiling window view of the city of London through diagonal windows, looking out to the Leadenhall Building skyscraper and Moorfields Eye Hospital, which is just opposite the hotel.

By morning, the view is spectacular — once the electric curtains are operated to reveal the sunrise. 

There are refillable water stations on floors as well, to encourage guests to refill their water bottles as one small eco-friendly touch that’s also practical after pounding the streets of east London.

At breakfast, I realise how much I have missed this particular treat of staying in a hotel. Except, this spread is so much better than many continental servings abroad — another benefit of holidaying in London.

With freshly baked pastries and locally sourced produce, we sample as much as our stomachs will allow, including a fresh-rhubarb infused yogurt pot, a raspberry croissant, and, of course, freshly made-to-order eggs with herb-infused grilled mushrooms and tomatoes. 

I’m tempted not to leave, although there’s as much to persuade you out as well. We head off on a free Street Art walking tour and lunch at the rejuvenated and buzzing Spitalfields Market, but there are so many things to see and do nearby, including Jewish walking tours of the area that was once home to the community. 

Luckily, dinner at the hotel’s restaurant and bar Moor and Mead — and top cocktails with offerings from a local distillery — give us reason to return to the Montcalm East very, very soon. And a reminder that you don’t have to go far from home to enjoy a much-needed escape.
 
 

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