Laid-Back Luxury with a Fresh Look at The Arch London

We loved the creative touches that greeted us from the moment we entered The Arch London — a wonderful spot for families who want to enjoy the best of all London has to offer, in a central Marylebone location that feels like a home-from-home. On the outside, The Arch has a beautiful, classic Georgian facade, but step inside and you are made to feel welcome in a warm and inviting atmosphere that deftly blends old and new in a fun and inventive environment.

Family-Friendly Review of The Arch London

Central Location

The hotel is only a couple of minutes from the Marble Arch tube stop. Right in the heart of Marylebone, it offers lots of wonderful shopping, and cultural institutions are just a few minute’s walk away. The famed Speaker’s Corner at Hyde Park is a 10-minute stroll.

Warm Welcome

The front desk staff are warm and efficient, and they were happy to help us with bags, room info and any other questions and concerns. The Arch has a special way of welcoming their smallest VIPs: Kids are gifted a signature Archie Bear, and in the rooms are adorable little bathrobes and slippers plus special kids’ toiletries, which they are sure to enjoy in the luxe baths.

Accommodations with Individual Style

Families will appreciate that each of The Arch’s rooms has been thoughtfully and creatively decorated in bright and cheery patterns and colors, and no two rooms are alike. Eight complimentary soft drinks are provided in the minibars each day, a godsend for a thirsty family after a long day of pounding the pavements of lovely London Town.

One of the things we loved most: Each bathroom equipped with a bathtub has a built-in television mounted on the tile wall, offering 60 free-view channels (you may never get the kids out of the tub). When not in use, the TV is a chic chrome color that blends seamlessly with the bath fittings and fixtures in the spotless, newly refurbished spaces. If that wasn’t enough for the kid in all of us, the main bedroom TVs have unlocked Sky HD boxes so guests can watch unlimited movies and sports channels.

Laid-Back Dining

The Arch’s restaurant and bar, Hunter 486, offers great food options. Taking its cues from the hotel’s aesthetic, the menu features modern takes on traditional British favorites as well as globally inspired dishes. (Don’t miss the fries — seriously!) Mom and Dad will enjoy and appreciate the cool and modern decor, while the relaxed, unstuffy atmosphere will make the kids feel at home. 

Special family packages allow kids to dine free when accompanied by parents. If you and yours are too tired at the end of the day to hang out at the restaurant, the staff is happy to send up room service.

All-Ages Retreat

The Arch has a warm, intimate lounge that offers something for everyone. With advance notice, the hotel can provide milk and cookies, which kids can enjoy along with a children’s book from the shelves or a coloring book. Mom and Dad haven’t been forgotten, either — there is a lovely martini bar where adults can relax and unfold from the day.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in London on Ciao Bambino

Live with Ciao Bambino: Best places to visit in London with kids

Best London parks and playgrounds for kids

The best London museums for families

5 fantastic neighborhoods for a family vacation in London

Best restaurants in London for families

Editor’s Note: Jen received a media package to review The Arch London for families. As always, all opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by The Arch Hotel and Jen Donati.