Tucked between the glassy rush of Stratford International and the retail playground that is Westfield Stratford City, The Gantry feels like an urban oasis without a hint of try-hard energy. It’s stylish, yes – but refreshingly unpretentious.
After a day at the Pour Choices Wine Fair, we checked in craving downtime – maybe even a cheeky siesta. The welcome was exactly what you want: warm, smooth, and effortlessly efficient. Inside, the hotel hums with a calm contrast to the outside chaos. You’re greeted by the rich aroma of Colombian coffee from Hermanos Coffee Roasters, paired with a low buzz of conversation and a crowd that feels genuinely global – from families to solo travellers to glam ABBA fans in full sparkle mode heading to ABBA Voyage.
Our room, perched high on the 15th floor, was a vibe. Floor-to-ceiling light, moody monochrome artwork, warm oak finishes, and a seriously impressive bathroom (that rainfall shower deserves its own shoutout). It struck that sweet spot between trendy and comfortable – somewhere you actually want to spend time, not just sleep in.
Food and drink? The Gantry doesn’t mess about.
Start with Coupe, a cosy first-floor spot perfect for sparkling wines and well-crafted cocktails, complete with an intimate terrace. Then there’s Soul Mama – more than just a bar, it’s a full cultural hub with live jazz, soul, reggae, comedy, and weekend brunches bringing serious energy to the space.
For skyline views and a touch of boujee, STK Stratford on the 18th floor delivers. Think premium cuts, slick interiors, and cocktails with a side of London skyline, ideal for date nights or celebratory vibes.
We settled in at Union Social for dinner, a relaxed all-day space that doubles as a lounge, workspace, and social hub. We kicked things off with cocktails – a crisp Japanese Garden and a smooth, coconut-laced twist on a Negroni that absolutely hit the mark.
Starters didn’t disappoint: crispy artichoke flowers paired with citrus houmous and basil oil, alongside dangerously moreish Cauli-wings. For mains, the glazed confit pork belly was rich and indulgent, while the aged rib-eye cheeseburger, a house signature, was pure comfort done right. Dessert was a stretch, but we squeezed in a shared tiramisu because… priorities.
Back upstairs, the bed situation sealed the deal. Cloud-soft pillows, a mattress you sink into, and the kind of sleep that makes you question your life choices back home. Bonus points for the in-room Nespresso machine – essential morning-after fuel.
Morning came with an equally strong showing. Breakfast was standout, served at Union Social – a generous buffet stacked with everything you could fancy, from yoghurts and fresh fruit to flaky pastries. We went all in on freshly made omelettes, cooked to order with our choice of fillings. The coffee machines delivered genuinely great coffee too – best enjoyed out on the terrace. Bathed in warm sunshine, it was the perfect spot to ease into the day and watch Stratford come to life. Just below, we spotted the Community Sauna Baths – a not-for-profit concept bringing affordable sauna and cold plunge experiences to the city, and firmly on our list for next time.
Equal parts polished and laid-back, The Gantry makes a compelling case for staying local in Stratford – whether you’re here for retail therapy, a night of culture, or cocktails served with skyline views. With the newly opened V&A East now on the scene, we’ve already got our next visit lined up.
The Gantry Hotel
40 Celebration Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1DB
thegantrylondon.com