The London hotel that is changing perception of larger chain hotel stays (Image: The BoTree)
Finding a central London hotel that feels calm, personal, and genuinely memorable isn’t always easy. With so many big-name chains dominating the capital, it’s tempting to book somewhere familiar and stick with what you know.
But during a recent stay at The BoTree, I was reminded why sometimes going boutique can make all the difference.
Positioned on the edge of Marylebone and just moments from Oxford Street, the hotel could hardly be better placed for a classic London weekend. Step outside and within seconds you’re at Selfridges, with high street favourites like Next and Boots practically on your doorstep.
READ MORE: ‘We tried easyJet’s cheapest five-star holiday – watch our for one thing’
READ MORE: I visited historic hotel which inspired Agatha Christie’s most iconic novel
For visitors travelling into the capital from across the UK, that location alone is a major selling point. Whether it’s a shopping trip, theatre break or celebratory weekend, you don’t have to plan your route — everything feels within easy reach.
But what stood out most wasn’t the postcode. It was the atmosphere.
From the moment I walked in, there was none of the overwhelming, impersonal feel you sometimes get in larger hotels. Instead, the space felt warm and inviting. Soft lighting, rich textures and a more intimate layout gave it a cosy quality — something that feels surprisingly rare in one of the busiest parts of the country.
After the Oxford Street crowds, returning to the hotel genuinely felt like stepping into a calmer world.
The rooms reflect London’s chic energy, with vibrant colours and a warm feel (Image: The BoTree)
Dinner at LAVO was another highlight.
Hotel restaurants can sometimes feel like a convenience rather than a destination. Here, it felt carefully thought through. The menu was refined but not intimidating — the sort of food you want to sit and enjoy rather than rush through.
Then came the moment that truly elevated the evening.
The chef came out to speak to me personally about the dishes.
It wasn’t theatrical or staged. It felt genuine. He talked through the ingredients, the inspiration behind the flavours, and clearly took pride in what was being served. That brief interaction transformed the meal from very good to genuinely memorable.
It’s exactly the kind of touch that makes a stay feel special. If you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or marking a milestone trip to London, that personal engagement adds something you simply don’t get everywhere.
It’s worth asking about — because those small details are often what you remember most.
Lavo feels warm and intimate, with dishes that perfectly match the atmosphere (Image: The BoTree)
Service throughout the stay reflected that same warmth. Staff were attentive without hovering and friendly without feeling scripted. There was a sense that guests were welcomed rather than processed.
And that’s where boutique hotels like The BoTree really stand out.
Big chains are reliable — but they can sometimes feel identical wherever you stay. This felt different. It felt considered. Personal.
For readers planning their next London escape, it’s worth thinking about what you want from your stay. Familiarity — or something that feels distinctly part of the city you’re visiting?
The BoTree feels both central and tucked away. Stylish yet comfortable. Lively outside, calm within.
In a capital packed with options, that balance isn’t easy to achieve.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
