Win a weekend at the Church Street Hotel

The hotel industry has realised, at long last, that people would rather stick hot pins in their eyes than stay in a characterless chain hotel. So we’ve seen dozens of smaller “boutique” hotels springing up in the last few years. But it’s not just size, or lack of it, that makes a hotel feel warm and inviting. You can’t just chuck in the odd patchwork quilt and call a Travelodge quirky. A real boutique feel takes time and effort, and the Church Street Hotel has had just that.

Bought by brothers José and Mel Raido, what was once a shabby, south London hovel is now a beautifully decorated haven of Mexicana. The transformation has been a labour of love on José’s part; he’s put a skilled hand to everything from the vibrant lacquer-effects on the walls to the 100-year-old reclaimed tiles on the lobby floor.  Each room has its own bold colour scheme with original artworks on the walls chosen for the purpose and brought back from Mexico by Mel. The dark hardwood and cast iron furniture contrasts really well with the bright colours. Hand-made touches everywhere give the rooms an authentic, homely feel while the vivid artwork, traditional Mexican ornaments like Lupita dolls and hand-painted bathroom tiling lend a really strong character to the place (no Ikea-cloned “style” here).

The communal spaces also double up as art galleries. In the lounge they’re currently exhibiting a set of Romanian icons. It’s here that you

can breakfast on organic bakes, Neils Yard yoghurts, organic juices and Guatemalan roast coffee while you flick through the ample selection of reading material or 
just watch the world go by out of the window.

Aside from the totally unique décor, though, it’s the little touches that make Church Street really stand out from the crowd. Like the choice of bedside reading material, in my case, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and De Niro’s

autobiography, which for returning customers, Mel adapts to taste. There was also a pot of their father’s 10-year matured hot pepper sauce in each room for those who really want a taste of Mexico. Though be warned, José told me that the reason you have to wait 10 years is that it will blow your head off if you eat it too young - so handle with care!

The rooms at Church Street Hotel are compact, but they really have that wow factor. Not only will you have a lovely stay, but if you’re anything like me you’ll go home with an itch to re-decorate your whole house Mexican-style.

Think you like the sound of Church Street Hotel?

To be in with a chance to win a weekend at this hotel, email us with the subject line "Church Street" and include your name, address and phone number.

Sorry - this competition has now closed.

Comments

[antony willoway]

church street
antony willoway
24 tynton road
bridgend
mid glam
cf314jf
01656668592

Sounds quite an experience!

[Sue Finch]

Although I haven't taken up any of the offers, I find these emails most informative. Many thanks.

[chavalai chiannilkulchai]

I wish to REALLY WIN this prize so that I could come to visit and stay relaxed at this place.
Love
Chavalai

[Fay Cunningham]

With hot pepper sauce and a Mexican theme
This boutique hotel must be everyone's dream
If I win the prize I'll be over the moon
So please pick my name and let me know soon

[chrissyFletcher]

I could just "do "with watching the world go by -escapism .Your beatiful inspiration is all I need . Thankyou

[Jean]

Hi, Church Street sounds like just what I need to escape to for a couple of days! I work with people who are recovering from mental health problems and sometimes, although I love my job, a relaxing get-away from it all break, boosts me. Thankyou for considering me to win.

[Brenda Howard]

Can't wait to try that hot pepper sauce.

[Roger Foulkes]

Hey Pancho.
Hey Cisco.
Thees must be za place!!

[jenny walberg]

hey gonzallas pass me the hot chilli peppers pronto pronto we must go

[Stefan Ingram]

Never has a nation owed so much too so few, like me!!!