Week One

So here I am - maverick reviewer - finding all that is great about London's underbelly.  Can I do it?  52 things that not everybody already knows about, things that aren't advertised in every newspaper supplement and listings magazines?  Here I go....

Week one was fabulous.  There I said it.  Described as "Winter Wonderland" on the roof of the Berkley Hotel in Knightsbridge.  Oh my God that was exactly what it was - I felt like I was in alpine heaven.  Since 2009 they have been opening up their roof terrace for private viewings of classic movies over the Christmas period.  2-4 people have the entire space and a choice from 2 movies.  Myself and my friend Emma chose Its a Wonderful Life - a doubly new thing for me to try as Lord knows why I hadn't seen it.

We were escorted outside and were met with an almost protective cluster of pine trees surrounding 2 armchairs with white fur cushions, blankets, and outside heaters. Along with fairy lights, candles and the gorgeous festive smell of sweet pine resin, this felt utterly magical.  We each had a side table and were given time to get comfortable before the film started on the huge wall above us.  We were brought scrumptious hot chocolate with marshmallows and fluffy hot water bottles!  We were also offered mince pies but when both of us said we didn't eat them the staff were most happy to offer an alternative in a stunning and quirky fruit platter. 

For those who haven't seen Its a Wonderful Life....oh my God.  The ending is ridiculous.  The tears were streaming down my face and as Emma quite rightly said I am now in love with James Stewart.

On first glance Winter Wonderland is not cheap.  Its £50.  However, this does not just buy you a ticket to watch the film.  It also gives you 4 hours full access to the hotel's spa.  This includes the gym, the pool, steam room and sauna.  How fabulous that while I was running on the treadmill I had a view of the other Winter Wonderland in London, as the Berkley looks out onto Hyde Park. 

 You can help yourself to as much water, tea, coffee, orange juice and fruit as you like while in the spa.  Included in the £50 is also the hot chocolate and mince pies or fruit platter.  

Considering that a ticket to the Everyman is around £20 and a day's usage at any decent gym is probably on average £30, with all the extras I think this is a steal.  I came out of the spa feeling healthy and refreshed and I came out of the cinema feeling heart-warm and life-assured..... and with mascara all over my face.

Winter Wonderland finishes on January 31st however, in the summer months you can do Midnight Movies where you get to enjoy cocktails and nibbles and also get your nails done while watching your film of choice.  Check out all the details here

Next week I will be going to the Fashion Identity exhibit at The Royal Academy.