Review: Montcalm East
Montcalm East in Shoreditch is one of those rare finds that manages to feel both modern and inviting, stylish yet genuinely warm. From the moment we arrived, there was an undeniable sense of calm and polish. The lobby, with its clean lines, curated art pieces, and effortless sophistication, immediately set the tone for a truly special stay. What makes Montcalm East stand out, though, isn’t just its striking design or enviable location—it’s the way it wraps luxury in thoughtfulness, something we felt in every aspect of our visit.
Our room was generous in space and flooded with natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city. Waking up to that skyline felt magical. The bed was incredibly comfortable, dressed in crisp white linens and just the right level of softness and support. What truly impressed us, however, was the care shown by the staff – especially toward my pregnant friend. When we requested a pregnancy pillow, they delivered one swiftly along with a selection of relaxing bath bombs. These weren’t generic offerings either.
After settling in, we made our way to Marlowe, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, and were delighted by the relaxed, refined ambiance. It’s a modern British restaurant with real heart, effortlessly stylish but never stuffy. The meal began with a bowl of cream of wild mushroom soup served with a crusty bread roll. It was earthy, velvety and full of flavour—just the kind of comforting dish you hope for at the start of a meal. For the main course, I went classic with Cumberland sausage and mashed potatoes, hispi cabbage, and rich onion gravy. The sausage was perfectly seasoned, the mash buttery smooth, and the gravy had just the right savoury depth. It was simple, yes, but done so well it felt elevated. Dessert was a highlight: lemon and blueberry bread and butter pudding paired with blueberry ripple ice cream. It struck a lovely balance between tart and sweet, warm and cool, soft and slightly crisp at the edges. Comforting yet indulgent.
The drinks menu at Marlowe is as well considered as the food. We enjoyed a few cocktails before and during dinner—each one mixed with precision and a little creative flair. The wine list was well curated too, with something to match every course and palate. The staff were attentive, friendly and impressively knowledgeable about the menu, offering drink suggestions and thoughtful alternatives for my friend to ensure everything was pregnancy-safe.
The following day, we treated ourselves to a visit to the hotel’s spa, which truly felt like an escape within an escape. Tucked away from the city buzz, the spa offered a tranquil, beautifully designed space with a heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. Everything was spotless and subtly luxurious, the kind of environment that encourages you to slow down without even trying. I was fortunate enough to be treated to a full body massage, and it was simply one of the best I’ve experienced in London. My therapist used a combination of deep, flowing strokes that worked out every last bit of tension. From the heated treatment beds to the soothing essential oils, every detail was considered. Afterwards, we lingered in the relaxation lounge with herbal tea, prosecco for me, feeling completely renewed.
Throughout the stay, the service remained consistently excellent. Every member of staff we encountered – whether at reception, in the restaurant, the bar, the spa, or housekeeping – was genuinely kind, proactive, and professional. There was no request too small, and everything was handled with a quiet efficiency that made us feel completely looked after without ever being fussed over. What stood out most was the human element: a sense that the team truly cares about making each guest’s experience memorable in a personal way.
Among Montcalm East’s many unique features is a permanent studio that provides photographers with full use of the space to develop their portfolio and showcase their art, whilst hosting workshops for the public highlighting different photography skills. The hotel began its Photographers in Residence programme in partnership with Ravensbourne University London in May 2021. Each year four BA (Hons) Digital Photography students are selected for a three-month residency.
Montcalm East is more than just a sleek city hotel. It’s a place where considered design meets real hospitality. Every element – from the spacious, light-filled rooms and exceptional food to the deeply relaxing spa and standout staff – works in harmony to deliver a stay that feels refreshingly personal. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic break, a spa weekend, or just need a stylish and comfortable base in London, Montcalm East exceeds expectations at every turn.
Find out more here
