Tucked between the glassy buzz of Stratford International and the monolithic retail mecca that is Westfield, The Gantry is East London’s answer to sleek city living with a splash of maximalist flair. It’s giving urban oasis, minus the pretension – and we’re here for it.
The striking grandeur and calm of the hotel is balanced by the sea of commuters, offering an ideal escape from the hectic pace of city life. Step into the foyer and you’re instantly hit by the aroma of rich Colombian coffee and gentle hum of conversation. The bold, colourful interiors feel carefully curated, adding to the charm of this urban retreat. Guests hailed from all corners of the world, ranging from young families to solo travellers and couples looking for a getaway.
True to its Hilton DNA, the service is smooth, sharp, and unshowy. On arrival, you are greeted with a welcome cocktail at Coupe bar (yes, the one with the galaxy-hued drinks that would make The Alchemist in Canary Wharf blush). Sip a local craft beer while you people-watch through industrial-chic windows overlooking the city. The Gantry’s got bars for different days of the week – including Union Social, the relaxed restaurant-meets-lounge, and the bougie rooftop spot STK, which serves happy hour glam and a £45 After Hours steak-and-sushi board that practically screams “Thursday date night.”
Now, let’s talk food. Dinner came with skyline views and soft-glow lighting that flatters both the meal and your Instagram feed. We kicked off with a delicious bowl of fennel and leek soup – sweet and earthy, topped with caramelised onions and served with freshly baked sourdough. For mains, the succulent roast chicken came with seasonal veg and a giant Yorkshire pud – comfort food, but made sexy. The Gantry Burgster gave burger lovers a little something extra (think upmarket reimagining of a pub classic). Veggies, be warned: options exist, but they’re playing in the small plates league.
The drinks menu stole the show. The Biohazard Margarita packed a punch – a tangy, fiery dance of lime, chilli and bitters. And the Book of Hedonism? As decadent as it sounds. Bourbon meets tonka bean in a cocktail that’s half dessert, half danger.
After a satisfying meal, we made our way up to one of The Gantry’s 291 trendy rooms. Perched on the 17th floor, it was flooded with natural light, kitted out with a slick bathroom, moody black-and-white artwork, and warm oak touches. A personal Nespresso machine sealed the deal – perfect for that morning-after caffeine fix.
Bottom line? The Gantry nails the balance between Stratford swagger and grown-up get-away. Whether you’re shopping, show-hopping at the nearby East Bank, or just fancy a cocktail with a view, this high-rise haven serves city living with East London soul.
The Gantry
40 Celebration Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1DB
thegantrylondon.com
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