The Petersham Hotel

Perched imposingly on the hillside, The Petersham Hotel looks out over the surrounding greenery from its elevated position. It’s a steep walk or drive to the entrance but the extra effort is worth it to glimpse the property for the first time. Wrought iron balconies and terra-cotta framed arches are left over from the Victorian era and make for an arresting first impression. The design throughout is refined and traditional, with the only real color coming from the faded oil paintings that hang in the hallways. Details like a Portland stone staircase make a lasting impression, particularly as this leads the eye up to the ceiling. This was painted by the 19th-century Italian artist Ferdinando Galli and depicts various Renaissance artists including Michelangelo and Titian. It’s hard to top such an entrance, but just off the small lobby area is the lounge. Travelers staying here generally head to nearby Richmond High Street or explore the countryside, but those who remain during the day can be found in the cozy lounge or the restaurant. The latter has floor-to-ceiling windows which open out onto breath-taking river and countryside views. This hotel offers competitive rates given the grand communal areas and stately style, but tourists looking to spend a good amount of time in central London may end up spending a fair bit on train rides. 

The Petersham Hotel has the best of both worlds. It’s within walking distance of cosmopolitan Richmond, with its artisan markets, boutique stores, and trendy riverside bars. On the other hand, its surrounded by tranquil countryside and beautiful river walks. A look out the restaurant window and it's hard to believe you're still in London. It’s a six-minute walk to one of the many entrances to Richmond Park. One of the Royal Parks, its home to various walking trails, bike tracks, and lots of deer. It takes 15 minutes to walk to Richmond High Street. A bus stops right outside the hotel and can do the journey in seven minutes, but the riverside walk takes in some great views. The station is a longer 20-minute stroll away or eight-minute bus journey. From here it takes just three minutes to reach Kew Gardens via the district line. It takes 30 minutes from the station to reach Westminster Station. This is a good place to get off and explore the likes of Big Ben, Westminster Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament, as they’re all only a few minutes’ walk from the station. Heathrow is the closest airport to the hotel and takes just over 25 minutes to reach by car, depending on the traffic. The likes of Gatwick and Luton Airport both take over an hour’s drive to reach. 

The 58 rooms showcase a restrained style, perfectly in keeping with the historic property. Around half of the rooms have been refurbished as of our 2018 visit, and these units play a little more with color, including soft blues, grays, and reds. In the older rooms, neutrals reign supreme, with varying shades of cream, beige, and white creating a classic, if slightly dull look. Interiors consist of oatmeal colored carpets and dark-wood furniture, plus historic paintings and poppy throw pillows. Each room is slightly different, but they don’t deviate hugely from this safe and traditional scheme. Newer rooms are more interesting, with patterned wallpaper, sculptural lamps, and updated black or white furniture. There are some seemingly Venetian inspired touches, like the heavily draped red or gold curtains and damask-style wallpaper. These theatrical accents add some much-needed interest. Beds are comfy, and all rooms have at least one armchair, while larger rooms have more generous seating areas. 

Amenities include the large Samsung LCD TVs, free high-speed Wi-Fi, coffee- and tea-making facilities, plus wardrobes with safes. Unfortunately, the rooms lack air-conditioning. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combos or separate showers and tubs in addition to Gilchrist & Soames toiletries and hairdryers. The best option is the large Penthouse Suite, complete with a balcony overlooking the river and meadows. It also has a separate bedroom with a super king-size bed, separate living area, and a Nespresso machine. 

Popular with intimate wedding parties, corporate guests, and special occasion celebrators, the hotel has a comprehensive list of features. The list begins with the restaurant. It serves modern British food with a twist, as well as a well-liked afternoon tea overlooking the River Thames. Breakfast is a formal affair, which is to be expected, and consists of table service. There’s a small event space off the restaurant with beautiful views and its own private terrace, which is usually reserved for wedding ceremonies. Elsewhere there are two well-equipped meeting rooms and a private dining room. The best event space is undoubtedly the hotel's very own working wine cellar. Set in the depths of the hotel behind a heavy wooden door, it’s a treasure trove of great wines where private dinners and parties can take place, surrounded by the hotel’s store.