Where novelty meets luxury, you will find The Cumberland. Once known as The Hard Rock Hotel, The Cumberland, in London’s Marble Arch, recently rebranded which has not only elevated the building but has effortlessly played homage to the rich history of the hotel without being overkill. Kevin Lee, Head of Brand and Marketing comments “The rebrand of The Cumberland has been an exciting journey, allowing us to rediscover stories from guests who have stayed with us over the past 90 years, including musical icons like Jimi Hendrix, Lady Gaga, Madonna and The Killers” – and these legends can be seen reflected across the hotel, through unique décor, personal portraits, music memorabilia and life-size and miniature instruments in every nook and cranny. Our favourite find: the guitar-shaped barriers leading into reception and the Union Jack guitar pick flag, beautifully hanging by the elevators.

“But it’s not just about the music chart-toppers; we’re also hearing from guests whose families have been loyal visitors for generations” continues Lee. “As we honour our rich legacy, we look forward and remain committed to offering iconic stays and experiences through our trendy award-winning designed spaces, exceptional service, and premium comfort” and they do all that, and more.

From the full-size London taxi chilling in the hotel lobby, which doubles as a quirky photo booth inside, to the personal record players in each room, complete with a selection of LPs for your choosing, The Cumberland has gone above and beyond to make your stay feel just like home but also embodies that true rock-style lavish lifestyle. It’s as if a mini-Vegas-hotel popped up inside London’s high-end boutiques.

The addition of a card-activated, add-to-your-room-charge, 24/7 mini-mart right on site reflects that Las Vegas strip vibe, as does the Sports Bar and spectacular wrap-around bar, complete with strobe lights and a VIP menu to match. Not only does this give guests the ultimate feel-good comfort without ever having to leave their hotel but these extra special personal details make for a truly wonderful stay that will leave you talking about it to anyone you can, for weeks to come.

And no good hotel stay is complete without good food, and boy, does The Cumberland deliver. On first reflection, their rustic menu is a small juxtaposition to the luxuriousness the hotel emits, but don’t be fooled. Their ability to produce high-quality, albeit simple, but flavourful food is as impressive as the rest of the hotel. Their full American BBQ feast is one not to be missed – a celebration without being too pretentious– although there may have been just one rib too many for this writer and her pal with eyes bigger than their belly.

Leaving you wanting more, but knowing you need room for their delectable desserts, their meat feast contains rich, sticky ribs that have a deep BBQ favour, fall-off-the-bone goodness with an elevated home-comfort, USA style. Slow-cooked brisket paired with mash and gravy on the side is oh-so-welcomed alongside tangy pickles, slaw and spicy sausage. “Washed down with limited-time Negronis inspired by iconic former hotel guests” is of recommendation by Lee, but we opted for a bottle of their American red – Shadow Point as suggested by our knowledgeable waiter who knew that its sweet but heavy finish would pair perfectly with our BBQ dishes.

You can find all this in SOUND – the ever-revolving restaurant and bar inside The Cumberland which is known for “catering not only to our hotel guests but also to Londoners and foodies who appreciate a unique experience”. And we could not agree more.

We finished our meal with the classic cheesecake, which needed a quiet moment of reflection upon the first bite. Described as only “a pure serotonin boost” each creamy mouthful was light, soft and worth coming back for.

On the other end of the scale – their house brownie. Fudgy in all the right places with a dollop of ice cream adding a stark contrast of cold against the warm dessert; cutting through the rich chocolate base. The added drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to a new level. It’s a heavy dessert, especially if you went for a meat-laden main but it is one that I can guarantee you will be dreaming about in your sugar coma later that night as you tuck yourself into a bed made of clouds in one of their incredible 900 rooms.

Although the hotel is large, you never feel crowded. Each room is spacious, and airy, and offers all the amenities you could require in your home away from home. From a smart TV to a minibar and everything in between, you can be sure to have quiet, luxury and comfort and, of course, to be treated as if you are the only guest there for your entire stay.

And at The Cumberland, there is something for everyone. From a VIP Back Stage Lounge (available to all guests who have booked an Executive room) that comes complete with free soft and alcoholic drinks, afternoon tea, pre-party snacks and the perfect place to chill, relax, wine, dine and catch up with friends or emails. To cheering on your favourite sports teams across nine large 4K screens in the public SOUND Sports Bar – with delicious stone-baked pizzas… or book yourself on to their Back to The Future The Musical Afternoon Tea in the SOUND Café for something truly spectacular. The Cumberland prides itself on creating spaces “where people can come together for an iconic time” and do so in a way that is fresh, innovative and memory-making.

Don’t forget to spot, stop and play a collection of guitars placed around the hotel, or call reception to have one hand-delivered to your room to play. You can even request one-to-one lessons and enjoy a jam session on your choice of Fender electric or acoustic, ukulele or bass. These come with a mini amplifier and headphones so you can rock out till the early hours, without disturbing your neighbours.

And after staying up all night getting the most out of what The Cumberland has to offer – make sure to pop downstairs for their all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. With American classics on offer, continuing the US style from the night before you can expect table-ordered waffles and pancakes as well as a plethora of pastry and continental delights, to a full English and an omelette station, with tea, coffee and fruit juices a plenty.

Situated just a stones-throw away from Marble Arch Underground station, and Oxford Street a short stroll away - The Cumberland has a pride position for tourists, Londoners or those just wanting a night of opulence amongst the musical stars and is one we must award 5 stars to.

This was a comped stay on the base of a review - but all thoughts and opinions are of the writers with no influence from the brand.

A Rocking Good Time At The Cumberland Hotel

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