hotel bar hopping (fun in the city)

INTRO

Looking to inject a little excitement into Spring and then the oncoming summer, three reunited friends decide to up their game and enjoy a once or twice a month evening or afternoon in a swanky hotel.

Novelist risqué Peony Blue compiles the list while light-fingered Monique and chanteuse Stargazer happily agree on the idea.

They decide on a weekday to break the monotony of evenings spent watching TV.

That night birthed by Peony Blue, GAL'pal was born!

Their first stop is Donovan's Bar inside the ever so gorgeous Browns Hotel.

They had such a swell time that they decided to share their experiences. (Stargazer)


Three young women on a night out, what is there to worry about but a cool night out. So we planned to do something exciting midweek, out of our comfort zone as it were.

Wednesday sounded fab, midweek, non-eventful but to be fair it was a lovely spring evening which gave us that little gusto. Sex and the city this is not but 'fun and the city', oh yes!

Choosing the Donovan Bar was unanimous and a great first pick. A good night was had by all so if you are a girl who needs fun and the city, pay a visit to this hotel bar with good friends who want to chill, have a laugh, people watch, people talk, taste a few cocktails and have an exuberant time, then watch out for our tried and tested 'fun in the city'! (Peony Blue)

After the constant rain and dismal winter it was lovely to spend time with friends on a perfect evening. First port of call was Donovan Bar within Browns Hotel. I do know London but not that specific part so it was unknown territory.

Getting there was fun with Waterstones, the Royal Academy and the availability of window shopping at some of the vast stores, afternoon and evenings will never be boring again. After meandering to and from the smaller and quieter roads there was Browns Hotel.

Donovan Bar is a place for grown ups but not too formal, a place to recline and relax with light or heavy conversation with friends or colleagues from work.

No need to dress formal but smart and comfortable will do. (Monique)

REVIEW - Donovan Bar (Brown's Hotel)

I heard about Browns Hotel but not of Donovan Bar and this was my first outing.

Did not expect top hats and tails to greet at the front entrance, which was lovely and not intimidating.

Welcoming 'good evening' from all staff made you feel at home as you are guided to your seat.

What struck me was the mood of this place; it's all about relaxation. Smooth music that does not overpower the conversation one may be having, soothing decor and dim lights. I could not help being drawn to the stain glass image behind the bar itself which was a colourful contrast. I was not adventurous enough to sample the array of cocktails but settled for a tasty passion fruit juice and later in the evening a white tea, complimented with cookie.

A great evening to wind down with friends after a busy day or week. Donovan Bar has a certain charm that has...charmed me. If there was any criticism just the snacks, more variety with less cryptic names. 7/10. (Monique)

If you're not in the mood for thumping music and a noisy crowd Donovan's could be your hang.

The subdued lighting induced a very relaxing atmosphere and comfortable seats lent themselves to a few hours of catch up. Cannot remember any music playing, if so the level was just right.

The staff was well dressed and friendly however the waiting time for food and drinks was a little long.

For me the downside was both the uninspired food and drinks menu. I had cheese on toast, which was very tasty but should be left on a room service menu.

So if gastronomic delights are on your list for a good night out, Donovan's may not be the place for you. 7/10. (Stargazer)

Donovan Bar is indulgent in a quiet sophisticated sort of way. The ambience is cool without being icy, debonair without being opulent. The dark undertones of black and white photos on the walls blends in well and still holds onto the understated look without interfering with the mood. We enjoyed some drinks and the refreshing lychee juice hit the spot not to mention the attention to detail, the cool looking tall glasses! There was a lack of nibbles on the menu and the desert trolley was done by 7pm so if you have a sweet tooth then grab it while it's hot...

Nonetheless it is a great place to socialise especially when you want to meet friends for a good old natter. And boy did we natter!!! I will recommend it even if it is a once in a lifetime visit. 6/10. (Peony Blue)