The Gyle hotel in King's Cross is now open. Tucked away on the historic Argyle Square, The Gyle is housed in three original 19th century townhouses, quintessential of the capital.
A quirky development, whilst historical on the outside, The Gyle will captivate and surprise its guests on the inside, bringing an alternative approach to space and style.
The name is a pun on the square it sits on, itself named after the Dukes of Argyle, who had been landowners around Kentish Town in past centuries. Hence, the hotel is steeped in decorative detail that give a nod to its Scottish and Victorian roots, while setting a resolutely fresh and modernist tone.
In a world where homogenous high streets and big chain hotels take centre stage, The Gyle is intent on making its own personal impression on whoever comes across it.
British weather is a favourite topic in everyday conversation so upon arrival at The Gyle, small clouds hanging from the ceiling guide guests to the reception (pictured), above which a giant cloud intermittently emits rumbling thunder sounds and lightning strikes; quite a memorable welcome to London.
The Toast, which is the social lounge deep inside the hotel, is a topsy-turvy upside down world. Visitors walk on an image of the sky reflected in Loch Fyne, while the ceiling is covered with a British lawn through which a large seismic crack emits intermittent lighting strike effects.
This is 'the rabbit hole', a symbolic pathway between 19th and 21st century in homage to numerous Victorian scientists and writers, also connecting The Gyle to the industrial past of the St Pancras area once covered by large coal furnaces and gasworks.
For food and drinks, The Toast offers another tongue-in-cheek nod to a well-loved British institution, the B&B but re-thought here as 'Booze & Breakfast'.
Able to accommodate you at any time of day, breakfast is a seamless affair. Here guests are invited to raid the bakery pantry and the self-service fridge, which offers a selection of artisan juices, house-made charcuteries and fresh salads in Kilner jars.
As the day progresses, a light lunch can include the likes of hot-smoked salmon and barley salad, Mull of Kintyre cheese, and heather-honey raspberry granola. The fridge is also stocked with bottled craft pils, ale, beer and porter - all from the Scottish Highlands brewery Harviestoun as well as a curated selection of gins and whiskies, focussed on the Scottish Western Highlands and Islands.
The 33 rooms continue The Gyle’s characteristic mix of comfort, quality, convenience and eccentricity. Upon arrival, guests will find a tablet in their to control the technology, fridge with complimentary water, and large bottles of Scottish toiletries.
Each room includes bespoke furniture such as a wardrobe and a bed with detailing that references the crafts of British fashion, carpentry, engineering and literature.