Ever heard of the Amicable Society for a Perpetual Assurance Office? Don’t worry – nor had we. But the Amicable Society (as it was known among friends) was the world's first mutual life assurance office, founded by a charter of Queen Anne in July 1706.
Later acquired by the Norwich Union in 1866, its headquarters were located at 1-2 Serjeants’ Inn just off Fleet Street.
On a site that dates back to the 12th century, this historic building was transformed in 2012 and given a rather more life-affirming role as the area’s most elegant hotel.
The vibe
The historic facade gives this hotel real gravitas before you even stepped inside. But despite this external grandeur, the interior is a more inviting and relaxed affair.
The reception flows across to the bar, which gives way to the courtyard – one of the Apex Temple Court’s most appealing features. Repurposed as a terrace bar, this was my favourite spot – a pedestrian-only area flanked with olive trees, it has a surprisingly Mediterranean feel for somewhere so close to the Strand.
Back inside, you’ll also find the Club Lounge, a complimentary perk if you book a deluxe room or suite. It’s a sizeable business-class haven with complimentary snacks and drinks – including beers and wine.
Food and drink
Beyond the summer terrace bar and Club Lounge, there are two further dining options – an impressive sell for a hotel with fewer than 200 rooms.
Chambers is the Temple Court’s intimate and understated bistrot – breakfast is here, and later in the day expect classic dishes from juicy burgers to colourful salads.
The Amicable Society of Lazy Ballerinas
Then there’s the Amicable Society of Lazy Ballerinas – which has to take the award for London’s best-named wine bar. Alongside its expansive wine menu, you can enjoy artisan cheese and charcuterie alongside an ever-evolving selection of small plates. And as for the ‘lazy ballerinas’? Nothing to do with the hotels’ proximity to the Royal Opera House. Instead, harks from a term of endearment for grape vine terraces given by Australian viticulturists.
If you want to keep the party going, El Vino is just nextdoor – a Fleet Street stalwart dating back to 1879.
The rooms
The smaller rooms here – City and Superior rooms – are light and airy and make the most of their space. If you can plump for a suite, though, you’re in for a treat.
Rich wood panelling and luxurious textiles are the order of the day here – the aesthetic a clear nod to the building’s past. Indeed, in some of the four Grand Suites, you’ll find original details including ornate cornicing, oak panelling, stained glass windows, and even the odd Norwich Union crest.
The fixtures and fittings are first class: Bang & Olufsen speaker systems; crystal whisky glasses straight out of Madmen; plush velvet sofas large enough to swallow you for a lazy afternoon in front of one of the giant TVs (Sky Sports package included – just saying).
There’s even a TV built into the mirror of the ensuite, which can be enjoyed from a bathtub big enough for two, inside a bathroom large enough to hold an AGM. Maybe don’t combine the two, though. In a harmonious coincidence, the bathroom products are provided by TempleSpa.
Ultimately, a temple should be a place of quiet, calm contemplation – and I can’t imagine many better hotels in London to enjoy just that.
See more at apexhotels.co.uk
