We stayed in a Doctor Who themed hotel and revelled in Whovian luxury

When planning a short winter city break, it’s natural to consider popular mainland European destinations like Berlin or Krakow, famous for their Christmas markets and festive attractions. However, just a short flight away, London offers an equally vibrant experience, packed with so much to see and do that a few days may not feel like enough.

Landing at Gatwick Airport, I took the Southern Line to Clapham Junction and switched to the Overground to West Brompton. From there, it was a brief walk to the newly reopened Mercure and ibis London Earls Court Hotel, a co-branded property blending two of Accor’s iconic hotel brands.

This property recently underwent a multi-million-pound refurbishment, reopening in July 2024. It now features 226 ibis rooms and 282 Mercure rooms, with the final phase of renovations expected by early 2025. The dual-branded hotel combines the affordability of ibis with the four-star sophistication of Mercure, creating a seamless guest experience. Despite the co-branding, the hotel’s public spaces, including the lobby and facilities, reflect Mercure’s signature style, ensuring a premium atmosphere for all guests.

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Rising 12 stories, the hotel provides stunning views of the London skyline. Mercure rooms embrace a "Layers of Time" theme inspired by the TARDIS from Doctor Who, a nod to Earl's Court Station's famous police box. Both Mercure and ibis rooms are en-suite, spacious, and environmentally friendly, featuring air-cooling systems and minimalist designs rooted in local culture.

The on-site restaurant and bar, Barnaby’s, is a standout feature. Created in collaboration with Paris Society, it tells the story of a fictional adventurer, Barnaby, who has returned to London after decades of global exploration. This theme is evident in the eclectic menu, which blends British classics with international flavours. Highlights include Barnaby’s Chorizo Roll, Spiced Fish Pie, and Limoncello Caprese, while the bar serves reimagined classic cocktails with a local twist.

As part of its 50th-anniversary celebration, Mercure has introduced ‘Discover Local’ guides, available across Europe. These curated itineraries help guests explore neighbourhoods authentically, connecting them with cultural treasures, heritage sites, and off-the-beaten-track experiences.

Taking inspiration from the guide, we began our London adventure at Kew Gardens, marvelling at its botanical wonders and art exhibitions. Highlights included the national banana collection and the ginkgo biloba tree, a species that predates the dinosaurs. Tickets start at £10 for adults and £4 for children aged 4-15, with free entry for under-fours.

Later, we visited the Sipsmith Distillery in Chiswick for a gin-tasting experience. Greeted with a warm mulled sloe gin, we delved into the history of gin and Sipsmith’s journey, sampling their signature spirits throughout the evening. Distillery tours and tastings cost £25 and run on select weeknights—a delightful treat for gin enthusiasts like myself.

Directly opposite the hotel lies the Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular, an interactive circus-musical inspired by the hit movie. This isn’t a retelling of the film but a behind-the-scenes experience showcasing the making of a generation’s "Greatest Showman." Guests can watch performers rehearse, participate in stage activities, and even have their faces painted alongside cast members. The main show features breathtaking circus acts and beloved songs from the movie, ensuring a magical experience for all ages. Running until 30th March 2025, it’s a must-see attraction.

Whether you’re drawn by the allure of luxury accommodations, immersive cultural experiences, or unique entertainment, London has it all. The newly refurbished Mercure and ibis London Earls Court Hotel offers a stylish, centrally located base to explore the city, making it an excellent choice for a winter getaway. With rooms starting at £109 for ibis and £149 for Mercure (room only), it’s a destination worth considering for your next adventure.

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