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There's nothing outside to indicate that this is a hotel. You'll find it hiding in plain sight in the ultra-hip Spitalfields neighbourhood, where enchanting Georgian architecture takes you on a deep dive into the past while remaining very much anchored in the present.
Architecture junkies Douglas Blain and the late Peter McKay met and became friends, and fell into their roles as hoteliers through a shared passion for old buildings. They ended up buying a Georgian terrace in London's Soho that they didn't know how to fix or what to do with. Hazlitt's is now one of the world's best-known and best-loved small hotels, to which they’ve since added the equally renowned establishments, The Rookery and Batty Langley's. Their philosophy is to create the kind of accommodation that they would love to find themselves in, with civilised surroundings, old-fashioned hospitality, and friendly, efficient service, in a location away from the roar of traffic but within a very short walk of the most important tourist attractions is unarguably successful here at Batty Langley’s.
Batty Langley's is nestled at Nos. 12–14 Folgate Street, just steps away from Spitalfields Market, within an elegant row of meticulously maintained tall Georgian townhouses. Originally constructed for Huguenots weavers fleeing persecution in France, in the 17th century who infused this area with their craftsmanship and flair, constructing elegant townhouses that showcased their burgeoning wealth.
However as their fortunes changed the houses were left neglected. Batty's founders were instrumental in rescuing the remaining Huguenot buildings from the wrecking balls of property developers. Douglas Blain and Peter McKay met through their shared passion for protecting and restoring ancient buildings. Along with other like-minded conservationists, they founded the Spitalfields Trust with Dan Cruickshank and Mark Giroud. They have saved over a 100 Huguenot buildings - including the one Batty Langley’s graciously occupies. The name is inspired by an eccentric, Bartholomew "Batty" Langley (1696–1751), an 18th-century architect and author who wrote influential handbooks that guided inexperienced clients in planning their residences "in the most Grand Taste."
Batty’s has the feel of an ambience of an exclusive private club, or a very exclusive residence. There are three exquisite reception spaces: the Library, the Parlour, and the Tapestry Room, and two Honesty Bars. The beautiful Parlour, my favourite room, has a very enticing Gin Bar, a nod to London's 18th-century obsession with "Mother's Ruin," while the Tapestry Room invites you to pour yourself something splendid from a carefully curated wine list and a complete selection of spirits. The library is lined with over 3,000 books, so pull up a chair, tipple in hand, and settle back. There's also a lovely peaceful terracotta courtyard garden with a fountain.
Drawing once again from history and the playful wit of the Georgian era, every detail has been meticulously sourced and where necessary skillfully reimagined by a dedicated team of local artisans (the antique beds are extended so as our legs aren’t dangling off the end) in London's fashionable Spitalfields. The result is a lavish display of rich tones, lush damasks, and ornate gilded stucco, adorned with unique portraits (don't miss Batty's portrait in the grand hallway) and objects throughout, that nod to the area's rich and fascinating history.
Each of the 29 regal bedrooms is named after historic residents of Spitalfields, demonstrating a particular affinity for those considered 'tarts and thieves,' apart from the 'Box Room', which is precisely as described and built for solo travellers.
The Earl of Bolingbroke's suite nods to a local landowner. Its extravagant design and distinctive character create an atmosphere that blends regal eccentricity with historical allure. Gently push the edge of The Rains Came by Louis Bromfield on the bookcase, and a concealed door swings open to unveil a charming lavatory - a wooden commode with a porcelain pot, complemented by a sink that resembles a decorative font. Other surprises include a TV hidden behind a mirror, an antique Tuscan marble bathtub opposite a four-poster canopy bed, and an extravagant roof terrace with views of Broadgate Tower to the west and the Docklands to the east. One of a kind, Batty's eponymous room deserves a category all of its own. It features an 18th-century bed with fluted posts and hand-carved capitals, as well as a deep roll-top bath. The star of the suite is its lavishly planted 35m2 terrace. Edgeworth Bess room (named after an 18th-century prostitute), is a good choice; next door to a room called Jack Sheppard, an 18th-century thief.
I had the pleasure of staying in the splendidly extravagant Kitty Fisher Suite, named after the iconic figure of 18th-century England, who became famous as a courtesan celebrated for her breathtaking beauty, wit, and charm. She quickly captivated the hearts of many wealthy and influential men of her time, often making headlines with her luxurious tastes and extravagant lifestyle that stirred much gossip. Fisher was a favourite muse of artists and writers; the renowned Thomas Gainsborough famously painted her, while literary figures like John Wilkes and William Hogarth regularly depicted her charm and allure in their works. As for the suite, I loved it! It’s decadent, sumptuous, and the bathroom is sublime! The Victorian bathing contraption is a work of art and flanked by the original stained glass windows! It’s just fabulous. Everything is quite delightful and incredibly detailed, and it works. There's brass swan taps, a brass hand for the loo flush. A heated marble floor and there’s even a step to ease entry into the massive tub. There’s a skylight above the tub. The stained glass casts kaleidoscopic colour across the room. It’s magical. I have a sitting room filled with books, a fireplace, and a wonderful little balcony filled with plants and a table and chairs overlooking the sleek modern high rise buildings. What a contrast!
It’s a very quiet street, a secret spot in the midst of a bustling neighbourhood. This is a very special place. There is no restaurant, but who needs a hotel restaurant when there's 24-hour room service and a decadent breakfast in bed? Buttery bagels from Brick Lane's Beigel Bake, sea-fresh Secret Smokehouse salmon (beloved of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants) and artisan coffee from Climpson & Sons. I can vouch for the amazing bacon from a traditional supplier in the Lake District. My bacon rolls were brimful, a mouthwatering feast.
Additionally, the area is teeming with fabulous restaurants, but why would you leave! Batty Langley’s is delightful in every way! I'm already excitedly planning my next stay, although I would happily revisit the Kitty Fisher Suite.
Once you see and experience Batty's for yourself, you'll understand why it took five years to renovate, plus 20 years to plan and seek out the handsome antiques. The love and dedication poured into creating this splendid hotel are genuinely remarkable. Every detail reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence that leaves a lasting impression.
It’s definitely quirky, and a little bit batty and I loved every minute of it! As they say themselves, “We may be stuck in the 18th century when it comes to charm, but we've made peace with the 21st for the sake of comfort”.
Batty Langley’s
12 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, London, E1 6BX